Side mounted trolling motor on Hobie Outback

[@davidh3623]

Great vids, was just looking to install a transom trolling motor on my 2016 outback. This fits the bill and more.

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

That’s great, glad I could help. Remember to raise the trolling motor base up a little higher than mine to keep the end from dragging in the water when it’s raised. I’ve made the mods on mine, I just haven’t had it out yet to check it out and film it,

[@chrisbarclay8903]

Have the same motor. Just got it and just took 7" off the length. Not as easy as doing that to a Minn Kota.

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

Thanks for the information. I kept mine original length since my other kayak has higher sides. Seems to be a good trolling motor so far. Take care.

[@eliadair775]

Great information! I have a question as I am considering buying one of these kayaks off of a friend. With the side motor mount, do you find the boat leans to one side in the water? Your vid it kind of looks like you're leaning to compensate. Bad back, can't lean for hours!

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

Hi, it will cause a bit of an imbalance, but if you have room to position the battery on the other side of the centerline it will help it greatly. I carry my battery on the far side, but it’s only a couple inches off the centerline, but it seems enough for me. A heavier battery would also help. Unfortunately, a motor will increase the ease of tipping the kayak to the motor side if you shift your weight to the same side without thinking. Keeping the motor as close as possible to the kayak thus reducing its moment arm, will help that too.

[@TrevorsCrabs]

Mariner Point Park?

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

Good eye, yes it is.

[@pomaprilkim3874]

What happen to the sea eagle kayak 420x?

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

Hi, I’ve got the trolling motor mount all set up. I just need to get down to the bay and test it out. I’ve got video of putting it together and will film it in operation and put a video out on it once I get it on the water. I use the 420x as my travel kayak, and the Hobie while at home.

[@pomaprilkim3874]

@@EnjoyingRetirement Sounds good! Good luck!

[@BigJohnM]

ohh great I can see it now with our next kayaking perch fishing trip, I will be left behind 😢 Catching 4 times the fish as me was not good enough for you? 🤣😂

[@EnjoyingRetirement]

John, no problem. One practical use of the motor is to tow other kayaks from place to place. I’ve seen it work, doesn’t even seem to slow down. Getting close to perch season!