But I thought wolves were naturally sneaky

It seems rate dependent. I can turn the Ultrex at a slow rate and it isn't too noisy but if you really stomp on it to turn quickly, it's noisy.

All of this is referenced to above the waterline where the steering motor is.

I'm not sure what the little fishies are hearing below the waterline.

I've been waiting for this comment

obvious you haven't done much bed fishing......keep in mind a fish is 2-3 ft under the water and his line of sight and ability to see a boat is limited to probably 20-30 ft. unless you are in ultra clear water which is seldom the case..if you stand up or wear bright shirts,it probably doubles the distance a fish can see you.....you try to position the boat as far away from the fish as you can and avoid standing up as much as possible...common sense should tell that wearing a shirt/hat that blends with sky in background is better than a brightly colored shirt...... any experienced bed fishermen will tell you it is much easier to catch a fish off the bed that doesn't know you are there....