I'm finally at a point to start setting up my own rig but don't have much experience/knowledge.  I have a 14ft Alumacraft and looking at getting a trolling motor for it.  Not sure what kind of thrust I should be looking at.  Looking for recommendations on what thrust and battery combo would be best.  Thanks!

What's your budget? You should buy the most powerful motor you can afford. 50 or 55 lb. The Minn Kota Endura Max are very nice. I've always had good luck with the deep cycle batteries from Walmart. A Group 27 battery would work well for you.

I bought a foot controlled 45lb Minn kota edge for my 15ft Lowe and it moves it pretty good, that was the biggest I could afford, a 55lb would be better but it is considerably more expensive.

Consider your battery situation in the planning. If you only have room for one, 45-55 is about the max you can run. Also consider where you are going to fish. In the small ponds and lakes, I use a 35lb and its mor than enough. If fishing larger lakes where wind could be a problem or rivers with fast moving water, then you need to look at at least a 55. Is it going to be bow mounted or tiller? Bow mount will probably require additional cable to get from the rear battery to the TM, unless you go 12V and sit the battery up front. You also have to buy or improvise some type of plate to mount a TM On the bow of a Jon. Next is getting a good charger. Cheap chargers kill batteries that are constantly charged on them.

What it boils down to in doing your planning, most of the time, the TM IS only about half the cost of installing one.

I'd probably go with a 55 if I could afford it. If it's the only means of propulsion for your boat, get two 27 series batteries and wire them in parallel. 

Hi All - thanks for all advice, much appreciated.  To answer some of the questions asked, my budget right now is about $400.  I do have a motor for the boat, that's in the shop currently getting rebuilt/tuned up (1958 Evinrude 10hp - that's where the other half of my budget is getting used up) so the trolling motor won't be the only means of propulsion.  It will also be mounted in the back by the motor (tiller).  From what I have been reading, the Endura Max definitely seems to be the way to go and I've also read on several occassions about the Walmart batteries being good as well.  Thanks again!!

Not to thread jack, but how long can you expect to get out of a charge?

For use on the front deck of a 14' aluminum boat I would use the Minn Kota Edge 45 lbs. 12 Volts.

I would advice against the transom mount trolling motor. It'll do the job but it's a pain to handle the boat and keep yourself on a spot or off the bank back there. I had that on my jon amd then found a way to mount it to the bow. I'm positive it has caught me more fish and made my days more comfortable and enjoyable. I guess if the shaft is long enough it wouldn't be too bad if you can stand and control it. Just my opinion though do what's best for you and your needs.