How To Choose a Bow Mount Trolling Motor For Your Fishing Kayak

As kayak fishing has grown in popularity, so have the product offerings to enhance a kayak angler's experience. Once propelled solely by a paddle, kayak anglers now have paddle, pedal, e-pedal, or motorized kayak options, allowing anglers to tailor the experience based on budget, preference, or pursuit.

Recently, kayak anglers have begun hybridizing their propulsion configurations by adding bow and stern motors to paddle and pedal kayaks. This approach allows anglers to adapt their kayak fishing setup based on their needs. For instance, anglers now have great solutions if they seek the benefits of a manual pedal kayak but also want the advantage of a bow-mount trolling motor with GPS Spot-Lock.

Choosing the right bow mount trolling motor and fishing kayak can significantly enhance your angling experience. With the introduction of key product models like the Minn Kota Kayak Terrova motor and the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pro kayak, the options available to avid kayak anglers have never been better. This guide will help you navigate the key considerations to make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into specific motor and kayak models, it's essential to understand your fishing style and needs. Consider the following factors:

1. Fishing Environment: Are you fishing in freshwater or saltwater? Will you fish lakes, ponds, and/or rivers, or are you a saltwater angler?
2. Fishing Techniques: Do you require the ability to anchor in one spot? Do you troll while fishing? Do you drift?
3. Kayak Compatibility: Is your kayak compatible with aftermarket motors? Or how easy or difficult is it to modify and rig your kayak choice with a motor?

Tips for Choosing the Right Bow Mount Trolling Motor

• Capacity: Ensure your kayak can handle the weight and power of the trolling motor. Check the manufacturer's specifications for maximum capacity.
• Trim: Proper trim is crucial for maintaining balance and performance.
• Ease of Installation: Look for motors that offer straightforward installation processes. The Minn Kota Kayak Terrova's easy stow and deploy features make it user-friendly.

Minn Kota Kayak Terrova Motor

As a trusted leader in trolling motors for over 90 years, Minn Kota brings advanced technology to the kayak world with the Kayak Terrova motor. Here are some highlights:

• Advanced GPS Trolling System: This system includes Spot-Lock, Drift Mode, and Follow Mode, providing unparalleled boat control.
• Spot-Lock: Allows you to lock your position with a press of a button, keeping you on the fish.
• Drift Mode: Acts like a GPS drift sock, maintaining your desired speed and path.
• Follow Mode: Automatically follows a contour on your Humminbird fish finder.
• One-Boat Network: Connects to select Humminbird fish finders for integrated control.
• Indestructible Composite Shaft: Guaranteed for life, ensuring durability.
• Easy Stow & Deploy: Effortlessly slide your trolling motor into the water and stow it with Auto Park.
• Micro Remote: Compact and waterproof, offering quick command over your motor.

To install a Kayak Terrova on your Old Town Sportsman fishing kayak, you'll need a Quick Release Bracket so that you can remove the motor easily for transport. 

Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pro Kayak

Designed for anglers who demand performance, stability, and reliability, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pro is a fully featured 12-foot long pedal kayak with dedicated molded-in inserts and through-hull wiring ports for quick and straightforward bow motor installation. The PDL Pro model features:

• Bow-mount motor-ready: includes universal inserts and a through-hull wiring port for easy aftermarket installation, allowing you to customize your propulsion experience.
• Dedicated stern battery storage will enable you to secure it to the kayak, which helps trim your craft, counter-balancing the weight of a bow motor.
• Four horizontal rod storage allows anglers to stage up to four rods securely close to their seated position.
• 150 inches of accessory tracks for mounting your favorite fishing accessories, such as fish finders, rod holders, cameras, and more.
• Forward-and-reverse PDL pedal drive system backed by a 5-year warranty.

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot Kayak

If you're looking for a motorized kayak with a fully integrated motor that requires zero aftermarket rigging, look no further than the award-winning Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot. The AutoPilot comes in two sizes: 136 and 120, and it includes a 45-lb thrust Minn Kota motor that is saltwater-ready.

In Conclusion

Selecting the right bow mount trolling motor for your fishing kayak involves considering your specific needs, where and how you like to fish, and the features that enhance your angling experience. The Minn Kota Kayak Terrova motor and Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pro kayak are the perfect marriage, offering advanced technology and reliable performance if you're searching for a tailored kayak fishing propulsion solution with pedal and GPS Spot-Lock motorization.
No matter your choice, we hope to see you on the water!