24 or 36 volt trolling motor

[bhulick]

I bought a 2015 Cougar A/E in September. To save a couple bucks, I opted for the Motorguide TR82 vs the TR109. After having used the boat I have always wondered if I made the right decision. Well, I bent the shaft and need to repair the motor. The way I see it, I can replace it with another 82 or go for the 109. Those of you who have a 20 or longer boat, what is your advice? Is the performance of a 36 volt worth the extra investment? I do ocaasionally troll for white bass, otherwise I fish for largemouth or smallmouth on the Mississippi.

[pchapin]

I put a 36 volt Minn Kota on my Classic when the 24 needed to be replaced. I would not go back to 24 volt or a metal shaft unless forced to by poverty.

[PhilAddison]

If a 24 worked for you and you were satisfied then stick with 24. With a 36 youre going to need an extra battery or bigger cranking battery to jump off of. Your call and I wouldnt place to much emphasis on what others say in this case. A 36 will give you more power and deliver consistently more power through tje day. Thats where the comparison ends.

[P4SHOcat]

I went with a 36 volt Minnkota on my 2013 P4 and I really like it. I like that I never worry anymore about running out of trolling motor power. It may be overkill, but for peace of mind its worth it to me. Ed

[billius]

One definitely doesnt NEED a 36 volt on a Cougar, but if you want one, go for it. Ive had three 20 Cats. Two CougarFTDs and a Baycat. I had 24volt Motorguides on all three of them. Ive never run out of power with them. I fished in current in the upper end of Guntersville with the Baycat a couple of times for two days straight and never ran out of power.

[MeanV2]

billius wrote:One definitely doesnt NEED a 36 volt on a Cougar, but if you want one, go for it. Ive had three 20 Cats. Two CougarFTDs and a Baycat. I had 24volt Motorguides on all three of them. Ive never run out of power with them. I fished in current in the upper end of Guntersville with the Baycat a couple of times for two days straight and never ran out of power.Good Post!Dan

[RobP]

You have second guessed yourself and have a good excuse to upgrade, do it!BUT, +1 what billius wrote. Ive spent enough time with 24v motors that if you are lacking for power look at your batteries and charger first. What is your charger set-up? Are you going to have to change that as well with a move to 36v? I have a 36v on my Eyra, the only time I ever have it on “10” is when jumping from one spot to another. That and getting away from danger such as a piling or reef that you are getting forced into is the only reasons I can think of to justify the 36v.

[catdude28]

I have the same rig as you, model year 2013. I have a 24v troller, and for me, it is enough. I am a recreational angler, but, if I fished in tournaments and/or harsh, windy conditions, I would likely have a 36v just for that extra capacity. So, I think it depends on how and where you fish. I had a 36v on my previous Puma, and do not miss it. And, as mentioned, your charger and requirement for a third troller battery are a consideration.

[pantera296]

Brad just replace the bent shaft and keep the 24v.. I keep the shafts in stock too.. In my opinion the 36v will not give you enough more to offset the added weight or cost (New 109 MG,4th Battery, Aluminum Tray & Charger) besides the loss of open access to all the pumps etc. in the bilge

[Jones TrollingMotor]

The 24 is fine for the 20 boat, I have a 24V MK on my Puma. However, if you want the 36V, it will save you battery over a fishing day and you will have the power when/if you need it. Another thought is to purchase a new shaft and the 109 lower unit and just swap out the shaft and lower unit. With a fairly new unit, your mount, footpedal and all others is OK. Whatever you decide, I can help.JohnJones Trolling Motor Services870 773 3474Motorguide/MinnKota/PowerPole/Lowrance/Humminbird

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