Garmin Force Trolling Motor

[laps19]

Hey Gang,

Has anyone gone from a 36v Fortrex to a Garmin Force trolling motor.  I am thinking of going with the Force and I am curious if anyone has already done it.  I have a 2008 puma.  When I installed the Fortrex I noticed a difference in performance going from a Motorguide 109 (bow lift and speed reduction) due to the extra weight I assume the force is going to be even heavier.  Looking for some honest feedback from those who have experience with the new Garmin motor.

Thanks,

Mike

[Bass Cat Boats]

Some of that performance can be gained by lowering the engine 3/8” or more.

At the OI last week we watched dozens of rigs run flat out across the mouth of the river between Ryan Creek and the main lake on Smith. Our best estimate is about 25% of those running had their engines too high. Yes, watching a boat run is enough to know if it’s hooked up.

As for the Garmin it’s all about weight and it’s similar to the Ultrex.

 

BCB

[BillBo]

Too high as indicated by rooster tail?

[SteveD]

In my opinion regardless of the brand that you elect, today’s trolling motor technology is well worth the trade off. I adjusted the running height on the motor and really don’t notice it that much. I promise after a long day of fishing I notice my trolling motor upgrade.

[Ricochet15]

So is the the lowering it 3/8 inch a standard rule across all the models when adding a heavier trolling motor? Or does it differ for a 150 Margay/Sabre vs 250 Cougar/Puma? Also what effect does adding lithium batteries int lolo the mix play on the jackplate height? Or both trolling motor and lithium battery combo?

[eyra2020]

The garmin force is worth it. I’ve had the fortress, ultrex, and now the force. All great motors. But to me the garmin is Definitely a cut above. But I would stress if you are not using garmin electronics then the ultrex would be my next option. The force has great features but you won’t be able to utilize them the best w/o garmin’s.
I got the force on my eyra and love it!

[laps19]

Thanks for all the replies everyone!

[laps19]

eyra2020:

The garmin force is worth it. I’ve had the fortress, ultrex, and now the force. All great motors. But to me the garmin is Definitely a cut above. But I would stress if you are not using garmin electronics then the ultrex would be my next option. The force has great features but you won’t be able to utilize them the best w/o garmin’s.
I got the force on my eyra and love it!

Thanks Eyra2020 I am currently using a Garmin unit at the bow for livescope (which I love!)  I am going to switch out my remaining lowrance units to Garmin in the next little bit.  I am looking forward to the extra features that Force motor offers

[eyra2020]

You won’t regret it. It’s a great trolling motor. I switched to all garmins from birds and not looking back!

[Bass Cat Boats]

There’s no standard on engine height as ever rig, load, equipment and propeller is different. Though get it right and when you change anything significant like bow weight, there is an adjustment which should happen.

BCB

[Chuck Bumpilori]

Question, are there any “Factory” authorized service shops for Garmin T/M’s at any of the lake area marine’s centers? The Ranger dealer at Sunrise Beach sells Garmin Graphs but not sure of the service end of it??

[doroger]

Just a quick note for you guys with Garmin trolling motors.  I live 5 blocks from Garmin, here in the last few weeks, they have started another expansion to their facilities.  I would suspect they are ramping up for more product production and a service center.  My neighbor is one of their engineers, I’ll try to fish for some answers and let you all know!

Don

[Author]

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