I read somewhere recently that the shaft length on a trolling motor should be the length between the top of the bow plus 18". The top of the bow on my boat is 21" above the water so the optimum length of shaft, according to the article, should be 39".

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I'd like a digital, possibly wireless, TM 55 lb thrust. However, looking over the MotorGuides at Cabela's, I only find the "Freshwater Series Bow Mount" FW54FB that has a 42" shaft. Do you have any suggestions for TMs?

Thanks

42 inches in not going to hurt. even the 45 inch motor will work. you can alway raise the motor up to the right depth. A plus of a longer motor is good  in rough water you can put it deeper and it will stay in the water. I don't see any motor with less than 42inches. so I donly think you will find a 39incher