SOUTDOOR

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

New horizons in trolling motor technology

Reel Time

RUSTY CHINNIS

If there’s one thing I learned over the years it’s that the more “stuff” you put on a boat the more you have to deal with. Having said that, there are a few things I have found worth the effort. Chief among those is a trolling motor. Recent advances in technology have made the problems I encountered in the past less of a problem.

I’m an inshore angler most of the time, only venturing into the Gulf seasonally in pursuit of tarpon, little tunny, cobia, tripletail and Spanish mackerel. While l prefer to use my push pole most of the time, there are times the trolling motor is “indispensable.” Chief among them are the times I fish alone and use the trolling motor to set myself up for drifts or to work a shoreline. Then there are the times when the trolling motor gives me a distinct advantage over anchoring or drifting when targeting tripletail on crab buoys or fishing lights in the pre-dawn hours.

My first trolling motors were analog and operated with air switches. I remember them as being more trouble than they were worth. Fortunately, advances in technology brought us digital motors that were far more reliable and coatings that make them far more saltwater resistant.

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN Robert Schroeder, aka "The Trolling Motor Guy," operates a Minn Kota authorized service center in Bradenton.

Today, technology continues to advance at a dizzying pace and trolling motors and anglers are reaping the rewards. The advances are particularly notable for big boat owners. While there are two major brands available to anglers, this article centers on Minn Kota, the motor I use and I think has made the biggest strides for saltwater anglers.

All Minn Kota saltwater models have coated lower units. The lower unit is grit-blasted, aluminum coated, then powder coated for protection against oxidization and rust. The other parts of the motor that are most susceptible to the corrosive effects of saltwater are the motor’s control board and electronics, which are completely encapsulated to keep saltwater out. All motors are also equipped with a technology they call a “digital maximizer” that extends the life of the batteries that power the motors.

The technology really benefits offshore anglers and guides who depend on a trolling motor every day. The new Riptide Terrova has an 87" shaft and a GPS system with a feature called Spot-Lock that automatically holds a boat over a chosen location like a favorite reef, eliminating the need to anchor in deep water. The GPS also allows an

angler to follow a particular track or heading automatically keeping hands free for fishing.

Other features include a bow-mount stabilizer to lock the motor in place when you hit heavy chop and wake, and a quick-release bracket for easy motor removal. The innovations get even more hands-free with the introduction of an i-Pilot Link which connects Riptide trolling motors to a Humminbird fish finder unit, enabling the angler to control their motor from a Humminbird fishfinder.

The Riptide Ulterra® increases the ease of use with a button that automatically deploys and stows the motor and adjusts it up and down. All this can be controlled with a handheld controller, from a smartphone app or on the fish finder unit.

With these advances in technology, the only work you’ll be doing on your trolling motor is maintenance. In truth, finding someone to work on my trolling motors has always been a problem. That issue was resolved when I met the Trolling Motor Guy. Robert Schroeder operates a factoryauthorized Minn Kota service center right here in Bradenton. Local Island anglers can even drop their motors off to be serviced in Cortez!

Trolling motors have come a long way since I hung the first one on my boat and have become an integral part of a lot of the fishing I do. This article just touches on many of the possibilities. To learn more about them visit www.minnkotamotors. com/learn. The Trolling Motor Guy can be reached by calling 941-518- 9940.

DOCK: Duncan Seawall to do repairs, boat lift installation

FROM PAGE 14 "Fortunately, we have Duncan and Ronáutica who have understood the different challenges we have faced, and both have jumped in to bring this project across the line,” Perry said.

Regarding past events that also involved the Technomarine Group that was originally contracted to install the dock, Perry said, “Thank you to Oscar Saá and Ronáutica for providing the materials, shipping and releasing of them from U.S. customs to Bradenton Beach. Ronáutica had every right to retain possession over the floating dock; however, it looked out for the best interest of Bradenton Beach and made sure the city received the product it had paid for even at Ronáutica’s financial loss.

“Duncan Seawall, has had a long and successful history of nearly 40 years in the marine industry throughout southwest Florida, especially around our county and in Bradenton Beach. We all know of the problems following the installation work of Hecker on the floating dock. Understanding the importance and needs of the city, Duncan Seawall has generously offered to undertake the work proposed by Hecker. This work will be completed by Duncan at a substantial discount for the city,” Perry said.

“They will also meet the critical deadlines of the WCIND grant so that our police department will have an essential resource for its marine patrol unit. Thank you to Steve Porter, Steve Liebel and all of Duncan Seawall for your support of our law enforcement officers, the city and all of our visitors who will enjoy the Bridge Street Pier even more because of you. This project would have failed but for Duncan’s strong ties and commitment to our community. Thank you,” Perry said in conclusion.

She also said CRA-contracted engineer Joe Foster has produced the engineering documents needed to repair and reposition the floating dock and install the boat lift.

After Monday’s meeting, Perry was informed that Duncan planned to start repositioning the floating dock on Tuesday.

“Talk about a quick response,” Perry said.

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED Chef Billy Hermaneau, of the Waterfront Restaurant, hoists a hefty redfish caught with Captain David White of Anna Maria Charters.

Inshore action good despite weather

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Last week was one for the books inshore. The redfish, snook, and tarpon were going crazy. Live pilchards have been the ticket. The cooler water temperatures and influx of fresh water have had them going crazy. The flats and mangroves are great on a high tide right now. Also, the mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel seem to be firing on all cylinders. It hasn’t been hard to fill a cooler lately. Local rock piles and structures are holding these fish well. We hope this weather gets out of the way and we can get back to business!

A beachfront wedding

Your dream can come true at The Sunset Weddings by Gulf Drive Cafe. This award-winning waterfront venue is one of Anna Maria Island’s most appealing sites for wedding celebrations. Located at the south end of the island, Gulf Drive Cafe overlooks sugar-white sand beaches, the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise-emerald waters and multi-colored horizon during sunset. The Gulf waves provide a picturesque backdrop when saying, “I do.” There are several options when considering where to exchange your vows. The most popular feature is tying the knot near the coastline on a romantic sandy walkway of multi-colored rose petals. They offer several decor options you can add and rent through the coordinators to make your ceremony extra special and elegant.

There is always a backup plan for inclement weather, with our drop down storm curtains. The rustic Sunset Tiki is a reception space perfectly suited for groups up to 150 people. It has a lovely tile dance floor, but you and your guests are also welcomed to dance barefoot in the sand throughout the night. There is specialty lighting available to add for the perfect glow to your evening.

You also have the choice of bar set up during the length of your reception for private use. Their team of experts will work with you on creatingand customizingyourtropical dream beach wedding. They offer several wedding packages to fit your budget and invite you to visit the property, sample their chef’s creations and learn more about what theyhave to offer. For more information, visit their website : thesunsetweddings.com or email any inquiries: thesunsetweddings@gmail.com.

DARA CAUDILL | WWW.ISLANDPHOTOGRAPHY.ORG Debi Wohlers and Lori Waggoner celebrated 15 years of being together on February 18, 2020 by getting married on the beautiful beach in front of the Beach Bistro. Beach Bistro owner, Sean Murphy officiated. Following the ceremony, guests celebrated in the garden of the Doctor's Office. Chuck Caudil provided the music for the ceremony and the gathering at the Doctor's Office. Chris Macarone, of the Doctor's Office, coordinated the ceremony and the celebration in the garden. flowers were by Blooms by The Beach, and the cake was by Hometown Desserts. On February 19, a formal reception was held at Key Royale Club, where Lori is president, and Debi is the women's club champion. Debi and Lori are Anna Maria Island residents.

Ralph and Mellody Russo recently celebrated 33 years together on the beach of Anna Maria Island. They are frequent visitors of Anna Maria Island, and currently reside on Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York.