Motorguide or Minnkota?

[clayc]

I know I'm fixing to start a firestorm, but here goes. I'm looking to upgrade to a GPS integrated trolling motor. I'd like to install power poles, but, i spend majority of time in water over 8' deep. So, I've decided to upgrade my older trolling motor.

This will be a two part question. First: Minnkota or Motorguide and why? (on a budget here, so want best for the $$). Second: Currently have 24v system on boat with 75lb TM. Would you upgrade to 36v and add the third tm battery? Or stay with 24v 80+lb TM?

thanks in advance,

Clay

[StarcraftSS]

I have an 80# MG XI5 and absolutely love it on my 17' Stratos. Would've gone 36v if budget allowed it....esp for river fishing.

A 36v would be the best option for a larger boat...imo.

[billnorman1]

Chicken or the egg? I would stay with the one I have because I beat the hell out of it and it still works, and I like which side the button is on the foot pedal.

[Sasch]

If you want to link your TM with your electronics then you have no choice:
Lowrance --> MG
Humminbird --> MK
IMHO both make great TM's, you can't go wrong with either...

[1ranger487vs]

had problems with my xi5.hate the pedal, returned it and yes paid more for the ultrex 80 ad love it. its on a 20ft ranger love it

[Tucker320]

I run the MG XI5 80. Anchor feature alone is gold, especially in wind. Also works well with my preference in electronics, Lowrance. No issues after a year and a bit, except..and it's a big one. The foot pedal sucks, I now mainly use the remote. After 20 years of using a foot pedal, not a welcomed adjustment. I fish more walleye than bass, the trade offs are worth it for me. If you have to have good foot pedal control, I would suggest you try it before purchasing. I do not regret buying it, just can't believe MG would not have made a better effort on the foot pedal.

Previous TM was a MG with the earlier Pinpoint system, corded electric foot pedal. Although not as good control as a cable steer, much better then the current version. If I had to do it again, I would take a hard look at the newest MK, even with the extra cost.

The 5K I just spent on a Lowrance system may have gone to Hummingbird...Once you experience the benefits of these new GPS TM's, there is no going back. If you take inexperienced friends out, they are priceless.

[Tucker320]

had problems with my xi5.hate the pedal, returned it and yes paid more for the ultrex 80 ad love it. its on a 20ft ranger love it

If the Ultrex was out when I bought the MG, I would have probably done the same. I can't see the pure bass guys putting up the the MG foot pedal. I thought at first I had a defective system, until I started seeing the same complaints from others. Paid the early adopter price. Not sure why MG thought they needed a wireless foot pedal over one that just works, crazy..

[KandKKustomz]

Minn Kota Ultrex over the XI5 anyday...