Bassyak or DIY

[Pat Smith]

So the new trolling motor is well under way to being mounted and done. All in all I must say the BassYaks kit would have been a better deal in the long run I think. Below estimates my costs for items that would have come with the BassYaks (so no battery).

Trolling motor $230 (I chose to get a refurb MK Endura Max 55lb, but a cheaper 30lb would have worked better)
Rudder kit $200
6ga wires black/red 15' each $45
Marine trolling motor plug $30
FeelFree track mounts $60 (I didn't NEED these but I wanted to mount my motor without making holes in the yak and use these to secure it).
Tiller Extension handle $50 - Because I got the Max version, I cannot simply remove the electronics from the head, so I am just leaving the head on the motor and twisting the handle with an extension handle.)
Wood, fiberglass, glue $35

Total $645
I don't have a kill switch and a cool remote management system like the BassYaks... so BassYaks 1, Pat 0

[ahlebik]

Thanks for the breakdown Pat it helped me out a lot.

I watched a video of someone going over the install of his bassyak on a big tuna, and then the install of the rudder system in a different video.

The rudder system from jackson seemed to involve more pieces where the cables entered and exited the kayak to prevent wear. I just assumed I would buy the Jackson rudder system and then have to buy the bassyak setup for best installation.

[john from md]

When I did my OK Trident 13, I used the island hoppers mount and a 40# endura max motor. I had to reinforce the pvc mount as it flexed too much. I got a super sale deal on a freshwater motor and cut the shaft and waterproofed in my self. I already had a rudder system on my Trident so that wasn't a factor. I would love to buy just the Bassyaks mount and work from there but I never thought to call Steve and see if they sell just the mount.

I only use a 55AH battery which weighs 35#. I have never run out of juice on the bay or in the rivers. If I am moving from spot to spot, I will crank it up to about 85% (4mph) and I troll around 40%(2mph). I also paddle when I am repositioning to keep in shape.

In my opinion, the rudder system is a must with the wind and tides that we have in the bay.

Regards,

John