Best Trolling Motor for 18' Bass Boat

After reading "customer reviews" on several web sites, I'm really confused as to which brand of trolling motor to give over $700 of my hard earned money to. It seems that the big players...Minn Kota and Motor Guide...both have negative reviews for nearly all of their current models. Yes, I know...you can only read "so much" into reviews as some people...amazingly...don't tell the truth in their reviews. :)

If you were in my shoes and are needing to purchase a new trolling motor (foot controlled...no need for auto pilot) for your 18 foot bass boat, what brand, model, thrust, and shaft length would you buy?

Both good trolling motors.
Just get 80+ lbs Thrust.

This is sure to start a Ford or Chevy fight - but last year when my Motor Guide trolling motor finally died (orginal equipment on my 97 TR-21) I replaced it with a 82lbs 24v Tour Edition Motor Guide.
I think the original was a 70lbs 24v and it took every bit of punishment I could give it until it finally died.
So far I've been happy with the new one - my only complaint is I've had to replace the prop - it doesn't seem as tough as the old one!

Thats crazy ElectricSLT I have the same motor digital 82 tour and just ordered a new prop from tackle warehouse. My prop nut came off last weekend and she flew off in the water somewhere. The one I ordered is an upgrade from the one that was on it. It has fiberglass or something inside it to make it more sturdy it is the 3 blade ninja prop. One hell of a trolling motor tho. You can fish in any wind you can imagine. I have a 19'4 Gambler and it will throw you off the boat on high and can go for 10+ hours on it without hurting the batteries. It will also take a beating and pound thru lake weeds.

[QUOTE=00SKEETER;410025]Both good trolling motors.
Just get 80+ lbs Thrust.[/QUOTE]Could not have said it better myself.

[QUOTE=slobslayer;410062]Could not have said it better myself.[/QUOTE]

I use Minn Kota Maxxum #80 pound thrust. I fish a lake that is regulated to 10hp and this trolling motor really does the job. I think it is a 42 inch. Never had a problem with the prop. I actually sharpen mine with a file. Seems to cut thru grass better.
Almost threw myself out of the boat 2 weeks ago. Wasn't paying attention and hit the peddal with it turned all the way hard left. Almost went swimming.

[QUOTE=18'stratos;410071]I use Minn Kota Maxxum #80 pound thrust. I fish a lake that is regulated to 10hp and this trolling motor really does the job. I think it is a 42 inch. Never had a problem with the prop. I actually sharpen mine with a file. Seems to cut thru grass better.
Almost threw myself out of the boat 2 weeks ago. Wasn't paying attention and hit the peddal with it turned all the way hard left. Almost went swimming.[/QUOTE]

The Minn Kota have a slow start (awesome) if it were a motorguide you would have went into the water although either one is a good choice I just prefer the Minn Kota's

Go with the Motorguide 82 tour! I have had two and they are great! I have a Minn kota 101 now and I hate it! The foot pedal seems flimsy feels like it could break easily! The motorguide tour pedal is aluminum.

I've had several of both brands, and liked them all.