It seems batteries and chargers are a hot topic here, and I read many existing posts but am still uncertain as to what I should get. I have a 10' Bass Raider (mini-pontoon) and a 30lb. Minn-Kota Endura. My question has more to do with size than brand (I will probably go with Interstate since Sam's Club has them pretty cheap). I just don't know whether to do the group 24, 27, or 29. The TM will be my only method of propulsion, so it would be nice if the battery could last for a substantial part of the day. Any advice as to which to get? I do realize that as the size increases, so does the weight!

My other question...does anyone have the Minn-Kota MK105P (5 amp, 2 stage charging) or MK110P (10 amp, 3 stage charging) chargers? I have found them pretty cheap and was wondering if anyone has an opinion of them (keeping in mind that I realize they are not the really nice/fancy ones that most people rave about). Thanks for any help fellas...

I would get the biggest battery that will fit, size and weight,  were you want to put it. I would also get the 10 amp charger. You can never have too much power.

I used to have a similar sized pond boat and I would run 3 batteries.  It made running out of power less of an issue.  Minn Kota makes a 50 lb thrust trolling motor (12 volts) with a variable speed ( instead of several fixed speeds) that will help you save battery power.

I have an 8' Bass Raider with the same motor as yours.  I went to Walmart and got the biggest marine battery they had, I think it was $90.  I also got the charger at Walmart, it a Ship-n-Shore made by Schumacher (sp?), I think it was $50.  I haven't been able to run it down yet.  I went the other day for over 6 hours, with depth finder running on the same battery, when I got home and put it on the charger it was only down 25%, still had 75% remaining.  And that trip included about a mile running on highest speed, plus all the trolling along shorline while fishing.  Works great!

Cliff

I previously had a 10' BR as well.  Ran a Group 24 battery from Sam's Club for my 36lb thrust tm and ff.  Fished 4-6 hrs and never used more than 25%.  Also used a Schumacher marine charger from Wallyworld that works great.  But I used a small outboard as my main propulsion.  Since you're using a TM as your only means of propulsion, I'd say get a bigger battery with more reserve capacity.  That way you can make longer runs without worring about if you have enough juice to get back.  Good luck!

I have the MK110P. Great little charger. For sure stick with one that does 10 amps at least.

Thanks for the advice guys.