mr 580

I’d tie it into another switched circuit-either a speed/temp or a downrigger for example that you switch off when not trolling. Or use a separate switch. Both of my kickers have stop/start buttons with no on/off switch on them.

IMO for people that might want to only take a trip or two per year on big water like the Great Lakes by trailering a rig and getting the specialized tackle that the option of hiring a charter is one to consider. Divide the cost of the charter between several people and it becomes reasonable compared to boat ownership and expense. Might also allow you to look at a smaller boat for your normal fishing. Not saying that is what you should do for your situation, but it is an option that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Seeing that you are out time wise a bit on the purchase, I would recommend talking to as many guys as you can at the ramps. Also see if you can hitch a ride on some newer boats. IMO I think you’ll find an 18 or 19 is preferred over a 16 or 17 for bigger water. With folding tongue trailers getting the longer boat in a garage isn’t the issue it once was. Another consideration for someone just wanting to fish the Great Lakes once or twice a year is to get a couple guys and charter. With today’s price of boats, fuel and insurance, it is a viable choice.

Looks that way- joined July 10th then made this one post and hasn’t visited since July 19. And people wonder why there is a lack of posts.

Daiwa Saltist 30 -great drags. Excellent as a wire dipsy reel.

What is the make and model of the boat? What is age and what is main engine? If two people on opposite side don’t take out lean then you might have waterlogged transom/ flotation foam. Redistributing weight is a good start, but seems like you might have more going on.

Bsmith welcome to LOU. Pretty big question for your 1st post. My advice do some online work on budgeting and business plans. Do you have any retail sales or marketing knowledge? You’ll need online presence and financial tools. How long have you sat on your license? If you’re 1st aid CPR is outdated that’s 2 years. You might need to retest? Charter insurance is not cheap- mine has jumped last couple years. My advice-get some business knowledge before you jump in. Lots of expense and hard work-can be rewarding for some. I was told by an old captain when I started “guys come and go in this business so we wait to see if you’re going to make it “. Work on the business skills. Lots of guys can run boats and fish.

I bought some directly from Kell Outdoors a couple months ago on line.

What type of drive and cooling system makes a difference. Old i/o from salt- no. Outboard maybe- you can repower. IMO a freshwater boat is worth more than a saltwater boat most of the time. There is a reason you don’t see old boats in Florida.

The early Mag 10’s had a right angle gear drive with three plastic pucks that would disintegrate when heavier weights were used. Motor wouldn’t fail the drive would and when it did you had free fall. Back in the 70’s and 80’s when those were designed guys were using 6,8 and some 10lb weights. Motor and drive were one sealed unit-parts not available in years. Upgrading would require motor and drive system redo.