I am getting ready to purchase a 16' Lowe Roughneck jon boat with a 20" transom height.  I am planning on putting a bow mounted trolling motor on the front.  Right now I am trying to decide between the minn kota edge 40 and a motor guide trolling motor both are about the same price.  Right now I am leaning towards the minn kota because I have read some bad things about the gator flex mount on the motor guide.  I would appreciate it if you guys could give some advice or any first hand experience you may have with any of these motors before I make this investment.  Oh yea how long of a shaft should I get? or does it matter that much.  Thanks!

I just bought a new Motorguide.....so my advice to you is buy a MinnKota!

i replaced a minn kota 40 bow mount hand operated with a MG 46 foot operated.

i liked both but i love the foot control aspect.

i'm not a tourney fishermen (well a few a year) so i didnt want to break the bank on a new TM. For the money you will get more thrust with a MG.

both to me are just fine so i would suggest concentrating on the thrust, shaft length, etc, and not the brand.

shaft length?  i asked the same question and i cant remember the answer now, but i think it was at least 20 inches under water.  but dont quote me.

Shwagy357, I've got a 16' flatbottom and I just switched a Minn Kota "FLW" out for a Motor Guide "Tour". Both are 12V and right at 54lb thrust. Also both are foot controlled. I love the Motor Guide! It was expensive but well worth it. Mine has a metal foot pedal and is similar to the Evinrude that I sold with my old 14' jon. Now that was a good trolling motor! I've only had my new Motor Guide for a few weeks but I love it so far.

I have a Motor Guide and it works perfectly. I've never had any problems with it. Can't say anything about Minn Kota though. Never used one.

I had an easier time finding parts and props for my MinnKota than I did my MotorGuide. Seems everyone sells MinnKota...makes things easier I think.