24 Volt, 71 lbs trolling motor wasn't enough today

[eh2000]

I ran out of trolling motor today on the Cumberland River just south of Clarksville, TN. Lake Barkley was discharging 80,000 CFS, Old Hickory was at 62,500 CFS, and Percy Priest was at 6,500 or so which is what I assume contributed to the strong current today. I was able to drift down river at 3 mph. My 24 Volt, 71 lbs Motor Guide on high could barely move up river. Both batteries were fully charged, but they are admittedly old. My fishing load was extremely light as I was really only out to test some outboard troubles I have been having. Not much wind to speak of either.

This experience makes me believe I need to strongly consider a trolling motor upgrade as I don't want to be at the mercy of the current ever again.

Since I already have a 71 lbs 24 volt system I am having doubts that a 84 lbs 24 volt system would be much better and I am strongly considering a 36 volt system, but would greatly appreciate feedback from anyone with a 20XD.

My questions to any of the fellows here that fish river systems similar to those found in the Tennessee Valley:
1) If you have a 24 volt system, has it been sufficient in powerful current? What about with high winds?
2) If you have a 36 volt system with cable steering, is it controllable on high or is it a detractor?

I know this is sort of a Ford vs Chevy deal. From what I can tell the cost would have a floor of about $500 for a used trolling motor and a ceiling of about $3300 for a high end new trolling motor + extra battery. That leaves $2700 of options to sort through. For now ignore the advantages of built in transducers, spot lock, cable vs electric steering, or any other perk of a particular motor as I will have to think long and hard about those features. Right now I need figure out how much trolling motor I need. I am not brand loyal.

[Bullet 250]

That's why I have a 36v 105 thrust

[WVBullet]

Same here with a 36v 109. I’ve had a MG Tour 82 for almost 20 years (still have it in garage) and it was nice, but when I need the extra, I have it!

[eh2000]

Bullet 250 thanks for the feedback. I assume you fish the Arkansas river just based on your location.

WVBullet, I really appreciate the vote of confidence going from a 24 to 36 volt system. I'm sure it is even more important on the 21XD with that big 300xs.

[WVBullet]

Bullet 250 thanks for the feedback. I assume you fish the Arkansas river just based on your location.

WVBullet, I really appreciate the vote of confidence going from a 24 to 36 volt system. I'm sure it is even more important on the 21XD with that big 300xs.

Granted, these are extremely light rigs, but the 21XD is 21’10” and that extra thrust makes it nice! You wouldn’t regret it!

[Bullet 250]

Yes I do, and the 300 doesn't have any thing to do with it, Had one on my 2004 with a 250, and I run 4 batteries

[WVBullet]

Yes I do, and the 300 doesn't have any thing to do with it, Had one on my 2004 with a 250, and I run 4 batteries

This is true, a 300 isn’t much different in weight than a 250. It’s our 21’ 10”’s, tourney load, 4 batteries and up to 36 gal of gas! Plus us.

[John Jackson]

It's not Bullet only more thrust and voltage is better on all brands. I ran down 3 group 31 (100 amp) batteries on my Stroker and never wanted that to happen again. So I went lithium.
IF you can afford it, you should also consider lithium batteries. An 80 amp lithium will go longer than a 100 amp lead battery.
The real lesson is almost every one that has ever made the jump to 36 v systems never go back to 24v.

[WVBullet]

I agree. It’s for any boat. My old Stratos was a lead sled. Super heavy and once current got ahold of it, you needed some good thrust to pull you out of it.

[Bada$$Bullet]

If you are not ready to spend 3k on an Ultrex, find a used 36V 112# Fortrex and add an extra battery. I did that 2 years ago and couldn't be happier.

[eh2000]

All great points.

Per the weight discussion, my perspective is a 20XD with a 2.5L so almost everything else is heavier.

Per the Fortrex recommendation, I agree and am looking at used ones along with Tour 109s.

Thank y’all.

[WVBullet]

You can pick a Tour 109 up pretty cheap.

[eh2000]

In my neck of the woods they can be had for 300-500 depending on condition and if you need the mount. I could go either way on a 109 or a Fortrex. Just gotta get the rest of the boat sorted out first. Thanks y'all.

[Bullet 250]

I have a Brand new Motorguide Tour 109 in the box

[eh2000]

Bullet 250, PM sent, but it looks like your mailbox is full.

[Bullet 250]

eh2000,send it now, did a little deleting