Don't want to start a ticking match between owners of each. I'm just wondering if anyone has any objective pros and cons for each brand? I'm trying to make every decision from the ground up for a new boat including the trolling motor. I'll probably be going with a 36 volt system.

Thanks.

I have owned two boats (so far :-/) and both of them came with a Minkota.  I have not had any problems with them other than they are a little small for the winds that I encounter around here on occasion.  Several guys in my local club have Motorguides and have had trouble with the motor housing leaking and the works rusting out.  They have all been older models when this has happened, but it is a bite when you are knocked out of a tournament.  One guy upgraded his Motorguide and the other went with a Minkota.  Not sure if this helps, but it's what I know about it.

I have only had two trolling motors and both were Minn Kota's.  Not a single problem with either.  A friend of mine has a newer Minn Kota and absolutley abuses it.  No problems either.

I have had both & never had problems with either.

i have had both motors.  one motorguide that is probably 20 years old and still works fine.  i have been through two minn kota motors, both times the griphite shaft broke.  decided that was it and went back to motorguide and have been pleased ever since.

Thanks guys.  I figured there probably wasn't going to be much difference except personal preference.

Heres the biggest thing i've personally encountered from being on boats with each brand. It's all down to the blade. I'd go with Motorguide if you were to fish alot more open water than weedy lakes. The motorguide seems to clog up or get choked up with weeds easier. If you like to pitch and flip in close go with a Minn Kota. Minn kota accelerates to the speed you want so on low speed doesn't stur the water up as much. I like both brands and see no difference between the two in durability these days.

Never had a problem with the MK.The Motorguide and Johnson TM's both gave up the ghost.