Trolling Motor-engages while going across lake

Have a 2002 MotorGuide that was converted to digital a few years ago. Still going strong BUT I've noticed the prop spins for a few rotations while going across the lake. Happens more when in choppy water. Almost like the bounce from the wake is engaging the motor. What could be causing this? I made sure the harness etc wasn't accidentally depressing the foot pedal button.

unplug it and see what it does

Darn! I'll try that the next time I'm on the water. Just to get ahead of the curve-if it happens while plugged in, what does that mean? And if it happens while unplugged, what would that indicate?

If it happens when plugged in there is probably a short in the switch, if it does it while unplugged you need to get a patent for creating electricity from nothing....

Funny! Ok, so my supposedly charged batteries crapped out on me today after only a couple of hours. Would a short in the switch drain a battery? Is that a "continuous" charge (even if trickle) kind of scenario?

Yes. If the switch isnt all the way off even though it doesn't have enough current to turn the prop it will drain it.