*This makes my old motor look like a toy **enjoyable.fishing** recommend it's well built. I haven't had it on the water yet, but I'm very sure it will perform just fine.*
Kick ass, I was thinking about doing that, that's why I watched your vid. Mostly checking out different mounting/install methods. Good job, you did a nice, clean, well thought out professional looking job.
That's awesome, I watched the vid on why you got that boat too, I have a Native FX-13, the 2 biggest things I was looking for was being able to sit with my knees bent so I could easily stand AND pedal drive(any kind). I really like the Bonafide kayaks huge platform and a high seat, I wish they would come out with a propulsion system.
Thanks! Yeah the Bonafide is supper easy to stand up and sit back down with no problems at all. very stable kayak. I do wish they had a peddle drive too. Sometimes I just don't feel like messing with the trolling motor lol.
I am ready to buy a kayak right now and the only thing that is holding me back from getting a Bonafide is the lack of a propulsion system. Going to go test paddle one this weekend The dealer also sells some pedal drive competitors so i will at least be able to check those out as well. (first kayak purchase) I am hoping deep down inside that the Bonafide paddles just as good as it looks and I forget about a pedal drive...
@@druhake7618 Once you are out fishing and have to fight the wind and /or current you're liable to curse yourself as I did for not getting pedal power the first time around, I had a basic kayak and the wind PISSED me off so much I decided to get the Native.
@@druhake7618 I'm getting the itch for the BlueSky Boatworks, check that thing out, I don't think I should get it cause I would probably stop coming to work
Great looking rig Chris, could you do a short clip on how you control your speed and direction with your trolling motor. Thanks and keep up the great work
nice job man! I'm curious if you think I could attach this motor to the stern of the kayak instead and maybe get more speed? Would the spot lock still work if stern-mounted?
spot lock would work but not sure how the steering would be effected if its in the back. With the motor being in the front spot lock would face you into the wind. if its in the back spot lock would put your back into the wind.
Thank you! I used amped energy 12v 50ah lithium battery. They don’t have 50 anymore but they do have a 60ah. If you got the money, I would definitely get the 100ah though.
Hey Chris first of all well done and thanks for sharing. I have a black widow ss127 and I just ordered a Minn Kota Powerdrive w/ ipilot. Couple questions hope you can help out. I also ordered the quick release you have. Any advantage by installing in the front verses the rear? I was considering a rear install but having trouble finding a mount for it. Also when you cut the shadft shorter was it difficult to do given all the idrive brains inside the top? Any videos of the process you did shortening the shaft? Last question do you have a link to the receptacle and plug you used for it? Thanks in advance for any help on this. My Minn Kota arrives tomorrow.
Hey so sorry I didn't see your comment till now. I hope you got it all figured out but Ill answer your questions anyways. I like the front install because I think the spot lock works better up there. It wasn't difficult cutting the shaft and the brains in the trolling motor head is very minimal and very manageable. Unfortunately I don't have any videos of me cutting the shaft. As for the receptacle goes I just used a standard plug that you can find at any bass pro. I believe its a motor guide brand but it works for the minn kota just fine. Hope that helps! And sorry once again.
Does it still work good using i pilot and having the fish finder control the motor when the motor is in the back? I know the motor is usually in the front of the yak or boat when using that feature. Seeing what you think?
I’m not sure about the fish finder controlling the motor. I’ve never tried it but I don’t think it would work well with the motor in the back. I think it would turn you all over the place and get confused what to do. The front will be the best and safest bet using the fish finder feature or even without the fish finder. Hope that helps some!
I can’t remember exactly how it handled. It was so long ago. Way before the motor guide xi3 kayak version came out. I’m pretty sure it jogged around a bit. The xi3 is definitely better and we’ll suited for a kayak. I’d go with the xi3 if your in the market for a trolling motor.
Thanks for the quick answer! Do you use the remote for steering and if so, is it a pain to deal with while fishing? Sorry, just read your response about a similar question. I look forward to seeing the video that explains control questions. Thanks for doing these videos!
It will glide from side to side. It doesn't sit perfectly still but that's normal as its constantly trying to find gps signal. Only disadvantages on it would be trying to go through grassy areas. it will get hung up pretty easily. The other is getting through shallow water.
Hey Chris, since that trolling motor is removable, you could mount it on a different boat, like a motor-less 3-seat Bass Tracker for those times when you want to bring a fishing partner or two with you? Just sayin!
I got the connector from bass pro. Model number 51549 for the kayak side and model number 51550 for the trolling motor side. Or you can search “trolling motor plug” on bass pro website. They normally have it on the shelf at bass pro too.
They are just quick release plugs I found at Walmart in the marine section. Every Walmart should have them. Should be around where the nav lights and such are.
The Motorguide quick release bracket is better. Less expensive and don't need the shim plate because the quick release pin can clear the deck. Watch this video from Bass Thumbs: ruclips.net/video/1hsxsV-AVxU/видео.html
I just lean forward and push the deploy lever with one hand and pull the trolling motor out of the water on the head of the unit with my other hand. Kayak is stable enough to get out of my seat to do it.
I took the head of the unit off the shaft then cut down the shaft to the length I needed it to be. Drilled a hole through the shaft where the bolt that holds the head unit to the shaft then fasten the head unit back to the shaft. I hope all that made sense lol
@@ChrisMitchellFishing i wanted to ask you too what ipilot should I but now with the ipilot, or if I go with ipilot gps link? What was the cost on yours?
The gps link is only good if you plan on connecting it to a fish finder. I think it only works with humminbird but I could be wrong on that. I I think the normal Ipilot does just fine and I don't see the need for the link. The price on mine was $1,400.
@@ChrisMitchellFishing Thanks brother, I appreciate your help. In the process of getting the girl home. will do a video on the build and eventually the maiden voyage.
No longer have it but when I did have it, It worked great. Just found out that it wasn't for me. Too many things to bring back and fourth to the truck. If that makes since.
It looks like you can. The bow looks about the same size as the ss127. So you shouldn't have a problem mounting the quick release plate up there. However I would look into getting a Torqueedo on the back instead. Much lighter, better on battery life and easier to manage than the heavy Minnkota unit. Just wanted to put that out there to give you an option. Price of the Torqueedo is about the same as the Minnkota plus the separate battery you gotta buy. The Torqueedo comes with a battery already.
Chris Mitchell Fishing Yeah, I already have the minn Kota but it’s currently mounted on the bow of my pelican catch 100. I’m looking to upgrade to something a little more stable for next season and want to get either a ss127 or ss107, unfortunately I don’t have a place locally that sells bonafide so I can make sure the quick release bracket fits. Thanks for the input and the quick reply!!
@@ChrisMitchellFishing does the mount allow the motor to flex or hinge if you hit a stump? I'm looking to mount one on the front of my Bonafide SS107 just like the guy above mentioned but I'd hate for it to rip everything out if I hit something.
I've hit ground with it going just about full speed and there was enough flex for it not to rip off. That's just my experience though. In my opinion I don't think the kayak is heavy enough and has enough force to rip the trolling motor off the bow. Whenever I hit something the kayak would stop right away then the trolling motor mount will flex just a little then push me backwards. As long as you have that plate brace, I think you should be good.
*This makes my old motor look like a toy **enjoyable.fishing** recommend it's well built. I haven't had it on the water yet, but I'm very sure it will perform just fine.*
Easy to see the advantages and downside to this set up. Definitely would place nylon pads inside the bow for added support of the mount.
That’s a good idea!
Kick ass, I was thinking about doing that, that's why I watched your vid. Mostly checking out different mounting/install methods. Good job, you did a nice, clean, well thought out professional looking job.
Appreciate it! Glad the vid helped out!
That's awesome, I watched the vid on why you got that boat too, I have a Native FX-13, the 2 biggest things I was looking for was being able to sit with my knees bent so I could easily stand AND pedal drive(any kind). I really like the Bonafide kayaks huge platform and a high seat, I wish they would come out with a propulsion system.
Thanks! Yeah the Bonafide is supper easy to stand up and sit back down with no problems at all. very stable kayak. I do wish they had a peddle drive too. Sometimes I just don't feel like messing with the trolling motor lol.
I am ready to buy a kayak right now and the only thing that is holding me back from getting a Bonafide is the lack of a propulsion system. Going to go test paddle one this weekend The dealer also sells some pedal drive competitors so i will at least be able to check those out as well. (first kayak purchase) I am hoping deep down inside that the Bonafide paddles just as good as it looks and I forget about a pedal drive...
@@druhake7618 Once you are out fishing and have to fight the wind and /or current you're liable to curse yourself as I did for not getting pedal power the first time around, I had a basic kayak and the wind PISSED me off so much I decided to get the Native.
@@robbiehampton6450 I'm seeing beginning to get the itch for a bonafide with an I-pilot trolling motor hahaha
@@druhake7618 I'm getting the itch for the BlueSky Boatworks, check that thing out, I don't think I should get it cause I would probably stop coming to work
Great looking rig Chris, could you do a short clip on how you control your speed and direction with your trolling motor. Thanks and keep up the great work
Thanks! when I make the video of the full set up of the kayak I'll put in how I control the trolling motor and show speeds and all that.
Fantastic demonstration. Maybe I can do the same on my PDL 120.
Thank you! If you do let me know how it turns out!
Rob, were you able to do it? Please if yes, I have a PDL 120 and urgently have to do same. Please share your experience and idea with me.
Chris, that's a nice set up bud.
Thank you!
Have you seen oneobjectives new bow mount? I just ordered one. I was sketchy about drilling and am glad they came out with this removable setup.
I haven’t seen it but I’ll go take a look!
nice job man! I'm curious if you think I could attach this motor to the stern of the kayak instead and maybe get more speed? Would the spot lock still work if stern-mounted?
spot lock would work but not sure how the steering would be effected if its in the back.
With the motor being in the front spot lock would face you into the wind. if its in the back spot lock would put your back into the wind.
Do you lock in your trolling motor when pulling it up on the water. If so, how do unlock the release that is on the top side of the motor? Thanks Tom
I'm not following your question, sorry. Are you talking about taking the motor off the kayak after I get off the water?
What battery model did you use? greetings from Mexico, nice setup.
Thank you! I used amped energy 12v 50ah lithium battery. They don’t have 50 anymore but they do have a 60ah. If you got the money, I would definitely get the 100ah though.
Hey Chris first of all well done and thanks for sharing. I have a black widow ss127 and I just ordered a Minn Kota Powerdrive w/ ipilot. Couple questions hope you can help out. I also ordered the quick release you have. Any advantage by installing in the front verses the rear? I was considering a rear install but having trouble finding a mount for it. Also when you cut the shadft shorter was it difficult to do given all the idrive brains inside the top? Any videos of the process you did shortening the shaft? Last question do you have a link to the receptacle and plug you used for it? Thanks in advance for any help on this. My Minn Kota arrives tomorrow.
Hey so sorry I didn't see your comment till now. I hope you got it all figured out but Ill answer your questions anyways. I like the front install because I think the spot lock works better up there. It wasn't difficult cutting the shaft and the brains in the trolling motor head is very minimal and very manageable. Unfortunately I don't have any videos of me cutting the shaft. As for the receptacle goes I just used a standard plug that you can find at any bass pro. I believe its a motor guide brand but it works for the minn kota just fine. Hope that helps! And sorry once again.
Nice work love it
Thank you!
Did you have to cut down the shaft? How is the motor performing today?
I did cut the shaft but you don’t necessarily have to. I don’t have it anymore but it ran fine for the time I had it.
Nice work. Thanks for sharing.
i guess it is kind of randomly asking but do anyone know a good place to stream new movies online ?
@Eric Jesse lately I have been using flixzone. Just search on google for it :)
Does it still work good using i pilot and having the fish finder control the motor when the motor is in the back? I know the motor is usually in the front of the yak or boat when using that feature. Seeing what you think?
I’m not sure about the fish finder controlling the motor. I’ve never tried it but I don’t think it would work well with the motor in the back. I think it would turn you all over the place and get confused what to do. The front will be the best and safest bet using the fish finder feature or even without the fish finder. Hope that helps some!
How is the anchor system on the Pinpoint GPS? I read some reviews claiming it’s horrible.
I can’t remember exactly how it handled. It was so long ago. Way before the motor guide xi3 kayak version came out. I’m pretty sure it jogged around a bit. The xi3 is definitely better and we’ll suited for a kayak. I’d go with the xi3 if your in the market for a trolling motor.
Just curious, would a small solar panel be useful to help charge the battery a little?
Probably not while its running but I could be wrong. Something I could look into though!
I’ve been thinking about the Hobie PA 14 but watching your video has me rethinking. What model trolling motor are you using?
I'm using the Minn Kota power drive. It has a smaller base than the other motors which fits the bow better.
Thanks for the quick answer! Do you use the remote for steering and if so, is it a pain to deal with while fishing? Sorry, just read your response about a similar question. I look forward to seeing the video that explains control questions. Thanks for doing these videos!
While your trolling to a spot, does is start gliding to the sides?? Or whar disadvantages do you see on it?
It will glide from side to side. It doesn't sit perfectly still but that's normal as its constantly trying to find gps signal. Only disadvantages on it would be trying to go through grassy areas. it will get hung up pretty easily. The other is getting through shallow water.
Which model is this and does it have a spot lock?
Hey Chris, since that trolling motor is removable, you could mount it on a different boat, like a motor-less 3-seat Bass Tracker for those times when you want to bring a fishing partner or two with you? Just sayin!
I would put a plate on the inside of the kayak too, before it cracks on you.
thanks for the video!
You're welcome!
that minn kota quick disconnect? wonder if it works on the fresh water ipilot terrova?
Yeah I’m sure it will work on the terrova. The brackets changed a little bit over the years but essentially the same.
Did you have to cut the shaft. I want to do the same set up for my ss107.
You technically don’t have to cut it. You’ll just have a little less room in the kayak if it’s not deployed.
Hi Chris, where do you got the connector between the kayak and the motor ? thanks.
I got the connector from bass pro. Model number 51549 for the kayak side and model number 51550 for the trolling motor side. Or you can search “trolling motor plug” on bass pro website. They normally have it on the shelf at bass pro too.
@@ChrisMitchellFishing thank you so much Chris
No problem!
Awsome man
What kind of plugs do you have from the breaker to the trolling motor?
They are just quick release plugs I found at Walmart in the marine section. Every Walmart should have them. Should be around where the nav lights and such are.
How do you raise and lower motor from seat??
I didn’t at the time. I just crawled up to the bow and grabbed it by hand lol. Not the most efficient but I made it work.
Good morning from Greece, I want to put something similar in my kayak, this electric motor in addition to holding on to fish, can be used for running
Its definitely an awesome setup!
The Motorguide quick release bracket is better. Less expensive and don't need the shim plate because the quick release pin can clear the deck. Watch this video from Bass Thumbs: ruclips.net/video/1hsxsV-AVxU/видео.html
What is the link to one of these mini trolling motors I’ve been looking to get one
Motor guide makes one specifically for kayaks and it’s great! www.motorguide.com/us/en/xi3-kayak.html
@@ChrisMitchellFishing thanks man👊
When coming in to dock how do raise the power drive from your seat and get it back?
I just lean forward and push the deploy lever with one hand and pull the trolling motor out of the water on the head of the unit with my other hand. Kayak is stable enough to get out of my seat to do it.
I would definitely put a backing block or plate underneath
100% agree with you. If I had to do it all over again, I would definitely do that.
Real clean , nice job . But absolutely put some plates underneath or your gonna have failure
Thank you, I'm on the plate deal!
how did you shorten the minn kota shaft
I took the head of the unit off the shaft then cut down the shaft to the length I needed it to be. Drilled a hole through the shaft where the bolt that holds the head unit to the shaft then fasten the head unit back to the shaft. I hope all that made sense lol
Does that mount plate come with the trolling motor with the upin?
No, unfortunately it’s sold separate.
What model is that motor. I only see black
It’s the power drive saltwater version 12v with the 48” shaft
Thanks so much man. I'm getting one of those kayaks and was wanting to do a troll motor.
All I see is the riptide models but I like the remote with anchor mode and all that.
Think I can get this mounted on a Live watersports L4Expedition???
You probably could make a mount that bolts to the track up front and mount it to that. I'm sure it possible!
@@ChrisMitchellFishing thanks brother.
@@ChrisMitchellFishing i wanted to ask you too what ipilot should I but now with the ipilot, or if I go with ipilot gps link? What was the cost on yours?
The gps link is only good if you plan on connecting it to a fish finder. I think it only works with humminbird but I could be wrong on that. I I think the normal Ipilot does just fine and I don't see the need for the link. The price on mine was $1,400.
@@ChrisMitchellFishing Thanks brother, I appreciate your help. In the process of getting the girl home. will do a video on the build and eventually the maiden voyage.
Where did you get the battery?
Go to www.ampedoutdoors.com and look at marine batteries. It’s the 12v 60ah
Could you send me a link on your battery and where I could purchase it? Thank you!
I think I found it looks like they changed their name to Amped Outdoors now ! And got rid of the read out on top!
Yes they did change it! That the battery. Pretty good one too.
So how is it working ?
No longer have it but when I did have it, It worked great. Just found out that it wasn't for me. Too many things to bring back and fourth to the truck. If that makes since.
@@ChrisMitchellFishing yeah a lmao looking at around 1700 for lithium battery and the motor. pretty big chunk of moneythanks
How much does the motor weigh?
If I had to guess maybe around 40 pounds or so. Plus the battery is 15lbs so it’s definitely not a light set up.
Is that motor saltwater approved?
Yes it is. All the white versions of the trolling motors are made for salt water and the black ones are for fresh.
I’ve always assumed that for boats glad it holds true for yaks too Ty so much sir
Do you think you could mount that motor on a ss107?
It looks like you can. The bow looks about the same size as the ss127. So you shouldn't have a problem mounting the quick release plate up there. However I would look into getting a Torqueedo on the back instead. Much lighter, better on battery life and easier to manage than the heavy Minnkota unit. Just wanted to put that out there to give you an option. Price of the Torqueedo is about the same as the Minnkota plus the separate battery you gotta buy. The Torqueedo comes with a battery already.
Chris Mitchell Fishing
Yeah, I already have the minn Kota but it’s currently mounted on the bow of my pelican catch 100. I’m looking to upgrade to something a little more stable for next season and want to get either a ss127 or ss107, unfortunately I don’t have a place locally that sells bonafide so I can make sure the quick release bracket fits. Thanks for the input and the quick reply!!
@@ChrisMitchellFishing does the mount allow the motor to flex or hinge if you hit a stump? I'm looking to mount one on the front of my Bonafide SS107 just like the guy above mentioned but I'd hate for it to rip everything out if I hit something.
I've hit ground with it going just about full speed and there was enough flex for it not to rip off. That's just my experience though. In my opinion I don't think the kayak is heavy enough and has enough force to rip the trolling motor off the bow. Whenever I hit something the kayak would stop right away then the trolling motor mount will flex just a little then push me backwards. As long as you have that plate brace, I think you should be good.
Put a plate inside also.. a cold day and it may crack..
Got it covered, thanks!