Best Trolling Motor for 18' Bass Boat

[twise7]

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?

[00SKEETER]

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

[ElectricSLT]

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!

[sglass]

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.

[slobslayer]

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

Could not have said it better myself.

[18'stratos]

Could not have said it better myself.

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.

[offdtop]

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.

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

[SwampDonkey]

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.

[Col Forbin]

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