Never had that problem. Have you used one yet?

I had a Minn Kota deckhand on my little aluminum rig and it was mostly a PIA. It worked well for about 3 months then it became a hassle. The rope would get coiled, you couldn't pull the anchor all the way up due to the chain and it would flop against the aluminum, the mount above the rope became dented due to the constant in/out of the chain attached to the rope, and the rope will start fraying eventually due to the constant in/out motion. Now this was 10 years ago, so I can't speak about the current models. If it were me, I'd just get a single Power Pole.

I agree. My Ultrex is amazing. I used it all 12 hours yesterday, mostly on Spot Lock, and my batteries could've lasted another 12 hours. If put your money into getting quality batteries and you charge them properly, they'll last you longer than you think.

I like the idea of getting a spot lock type TM, especially since the new Maxxum is giving me headaches lately, to help with the lack of a shallow anchor. But, same situation, spending $$$ on a couple graphs. I knew buying an aluminum boat wind would be an issue, but even with a spot lock, I think I would still struggle with holding the boat in shallow water. Two Talons would be the fix but unless I find a good deal on (2) 8'ers, $1500 or less, not happening this year.

Appreciate all the feedback!

I've used 12v and 36v terrova ipilot for 12 hours and more. Have never had a low battery issue. Wouldn't fish without one. As far as the op question, I was with a guide that had one on the back of his boat. He'd lower it the water and lower another anchor up front to position the boat at the angle needed. I guess the advantage to the electric is that he could let out cable or pull in as needed from up front. He had a talon mounted there also. I've thought about adding one on the back of mine for certain situations

No worries, I know everyone has their personal preferences. I had a pump issue and dumped hydraulic fluid in the bottom of my boat, had it fixed, and leaked again after I had cleaned all the old fluid out. Still has a residue after using hull cleaner etc. do not want that to happen again.

The Ultrex sounds like an elegant solution if you stay in clean deeper water, but seriously, what do you do if fishing in a shallow weedy area..say 2-3 feet?

Anchor and a rope. I use mine in shallow water all the time but my lakes don't have weeds to disturb the fish even more.

Just get 2 power poles and give the wife a casting lesson

This!The Ultrex is awesome!