Gas Outboard Motor Or Electric Trolling Motor ?

    There are many good reasons to use electric outboard motors over gas-powered in the fishing area. Two main advantages of using an electric trolling motor are that it’s quieter than gas motor and it does not directly release any pollution. They are also allowed in some ponds and bays where other outboards can’t be used legally. It’s popular for fisherman and ones who’d like enjoy the peaceful nature. And the electric trolling motor is small, light, and affordable.

    Following are several advantages and disadvantages between gas and electric trolling motor.

1.   Clean

• Electric outboard motors powered by battery, do not smoke or spew gas fumes during their operation, and fish men do not need to worry about gas or oil spills.

2.   Quiet

• Gasoline motors are louder than electric motors, especially as the muffler systems rust in the damp environment. Electric motors should make no more than a hum, which will not frighten the fish away nor fray the nerves of the peace-seeking fisherman.

3.   Smooth

• The very nature of piston engines--turning up-and-down movement into circular motion--causes them to shake. If the engine happens to start running particularly rough during a fishing trip, sitting in a bass boat can be as jarring as sitting on an off-balance washing machine. An electric motor is completely rotary motion, eliminating most of the vibration. In addition, electric outboard motors are always ready to go at the turning of a handle, which can really contribute to the restfulness of the trip.

4.   Ecological

•  Electrics tend to be more environmentally friendly. Fishermen have a vested interest in protecting the environment, and perhaps have a better understanding of why it is important because of their intimate interaction with nature while fishing. In addition, although batteries do need to be recharged, some of that charging can be accomplished using solar power. This helps further minimize the environmental impact of the motor.

5.   Home builts

• While most boaters buy their electric outboard motors, it is a fairly simple process to build your own electric outboard motor. This means you can tailor the motor to suit your needs.

Drawbacks

•       For all their benefits, electric outboard motors do have some drawbacks. Battery weight can be a problem with more powerful motors, especially the ones that require two or more batteries. Gas motors can provide more power than electrics for less weight.
•      And gas motors can provide operation over a greater range than most electric setups. A fisherman is less likely to run out of gas than he is to run out of charge.
•      But these drawbacks can be offset somewhat by carefully matching your power needs to your boat. And of course, there is the solar charger to consider. Gas motors will not refuel themselves just sitting in the sun.