I realize they are fairly new, but these guys get all the new gear before some things ever hit the market. I never see any of them running these new digital, wireless trolling motors.

Anyone know why?

Cause it's lazy fishing, I wouldn't use one and prob wouldn't maybe when I'm like 70, I enjoy letting off the throttle and shutting down and walking up to the deck and pulling the trolling motor cord and releasing the trolling motor, no better sound early in the morning

Using electronics and finesse fishing off the front is good fishing but using a wireless trolling motor is lazy fishing? I'm not trying to debate, just don't see the connection. Im not asking about the newest ones that just auto deploy, Etc. I mean that's fine but I'm just thinking why not use the technology to anchor in deep water like they do everything else.

Do the remotes require the use of hands/fingers? Perhaps that's why - their hands are busy fishing?

They have hand held remotes and foot control remotes. I've never used one but the reviews say they are very similar to a wired TM with foot control. I'm a little skeptical bc I never see the pros using them.

Because they really don't work that great.

Think of it like this. A remote controlled reel? Or remote controlled hook set? It's one of those things that sounds great I theory, but just doesn't work. Lack of connection with what's really happening isn't EVER great. Unless it's an in law and you'd like to disconnect from the conversation. Lol.

How many times have you had to press the damn remote button on your Direct TV remote to get it to change channels. Id hate to have a nice boat scratched up by a boat dock because the remote "temporarily lost communication" with the TM.

I thought you mean the auto deploy ones, I think it's still just being up front using the electronics, I don't prefer those either

Probably not durable enough to last in the conditions those guys run in. I borrowed my buddies boat with it and I really loved the spot lock but that's it.

Edit: took a little wile to get used to the foot pedal it steers different than the cable ones too

That's a good point. I need a new TM and I keep going back in forth in my mind. The number 1 feature that intrigues me is being able to anchor off shore. But I also worry about the dependability, the reaction time, how long will it last, and the more electronics involved the more likely to break down. I'm probably showing my age bc I sound like my dad but I'm wondering if those are some of the reasons the pros don't use or talk about them much.

They are loud so they aren't the best in shallow water. Also it's nothing like cable steer there is 2 buttons(one for left and right) so you don't get that smooth steering that you do with cables. I had one for about 2 months when they came out, the only thing that was cool was the spot lock.

I've wondered why you don't see the pros using them too. I have the Terrova iPilot and really like it. It takes a little getting used to but once you own it you'll never go back to the others (unless your like the old farts that gets an iPhone then says "take it back, I don't need all this damn stuff!")

As far as having to punch the remote several times or whatever, I have no problem with my remote though I seldomly use it unless it's for the anchor feature. The foot pedal works as accurately as a manual one.

My honest opinion as to why they aren't using them yet is the right cool kid hasn't put it on his boat yet. Let the right guy install one and several more will follow.

It's been a few years since I ran a chase boat or followed any pros but I know they told us at the meeting to turn off all electronics to minimize interference to them. The amount of fans following a pro can have an impact on his electronics. I can only imagine the risk they take with a wireless system where others can sabotage them by knowing their frequency or even a fan having a random unit using the same frequency. Many of the pros are known for pranks. I'm sure no one wants to make them self prey for that.

Imagine a pro and a fan having the same frequency and each trying to control their boat.

I think that some that like to pick a deep water spot and sit there could benefit from them but most anglers just run the banks or a certain area and if there are stumps involved that would complicate things. Also the ones I have used do not respond quick enough for me. The head is driven by a motor and getting them to turn and move forward or backwards takes a lot more practice than a regular cable driven foot controlled. I am sure some opinions will vary but that is mine. With that said I would love to have one that I could put on my boat for those few times of a year that I am camped out on the end of a point or on a certain brush pile but most the year I will keep my Fortrex.

Jody

I am surprised a few haven't used one on certain offshore situations.

I reality they are better in concept than reality. You don't see many hand controlled trolling motors on pro boats either.

Foot Control is just better for the non-stop fishing they do. Fast response.

Just a fad. In less than 5 years you will be kicking your self in the Nads for buying one.