Minn Kota Unifies Technology and Brands into One!

Minn Kota integrates its fish finder technology, mapping, trolling motor system and precise boat positioning into one system titled Minn Kota. By integrating Talong, Minn Kota and Humminbird into one, anglers can expect easy compatibility and flawless total boat control. The heart of the system is the Minn Kota fish fishers and that deliver sonal and imaging building that developed over the last 40 plus years. For the angler, expect easy setup and use between screens, motor and Talon technology. 

Learn more here. 

10 Trolling Motor Maintenance Tips [Checklist]

 

We’re going to break down the most important trolling motor maintenance and care procedures for all trolling motors to keep them running like new for years to come. A little bit of TLC goes a long way in keeping this important fishing tool in good condition. 0:00 - Intro 0:21 - Tip #1: Clean Trolling Motor Prop of Weeds/Line 1:43 - Tip #2: Inspect Trolling Motor Prop Drive Pin 3:24 - Tip #3: Wash Trolling Motor 3:55 - Tip #4: Lubricating the Trolling Motor Shaft 5:16 - Tip #5: Tighten All Mounting Bolts 6:12 - Tip #6: Inspect & Tighten Battery Connections 7:53 - Tip #7: Properly Charge Marine Batteries 8:54 - Tip #8: Trolling Motor Cable Management & Inspection 10:11 - Tip #9: Steering Cable Tension Adjustment 11:09 - Tip #10: Prolonged Storage Prep 12:24 - Bonus Tip: Weedless Prop Performance View all of these tips in our 10 Trolling Motor Maintenence Tips Blog at https://www.minnkotamotors.com/blog/a...

10 Trolling Motor Maintenance Tips

Minn Kota® trolling motors have been around for over 86 years and they’re the toughest out there, but that doesn’t mean periodic maintenance should be ignored.

We’re going to break down the most important trolling motor maintenance and care procedures for all trolling motors to keep them running like new for years to come.

A little bit of TLC goes a long way in keeping this important fishing tool in good condition.

Check and Tighten Battery Connections

Poor connections to batteries are one of the most common sources of trolling motor problems. All trolling motors require a clean connection to power to run effectively.

While this doesn’t necessarily extend the life of your trolling motor, it does prevent unwanted headaches during your valuable time on the water.

trolling motor battery connection maintenance. Simply pull out your wrench or socket and check that all connection points are snug. 

While you are there, check the battery terminals and wires for corrosion. Give them a quick clean with fine sandpaper or emery cloth and replace any corroded wires.

It's also important to check any additional connection points, for example, where your trolling motor wire meets a terminal ring. If it's loose, re-snug or replace the terminal ring.

Frequency: It only takes a minute, so it may be good to check every or every other outing depending on how often you fish.

For more tip link here

Next Generation of Precision Chargers Optimized for Lithium Marine Batteries

Lithium batteries bring numerous advantages over more traditional marine power options including reduced weight and longer run times.  But these advantages come with the possibility of damaging batteries through over –or under-charging. Minn Kota’s new line of Precision On-Board Chargers take the guesswork out of running lithium power and maximize the life of 12-volt (LiFePO4) marine lithium batteries.

Select models boast an industry-leading 15 amps of true-rated output, and the new Minn Kota Precision On-Board Chargers protect lithium batteries as well as fishing time. By maximizing run times and delivering shorter charge times, these chargers keep anglers on the water longer and get them back on the water faster.

Enhancements to the line, optimized for 12-volt lithium (LiFePO4) batteries, include charge profiles specifically formulated for the high demands of lithium batteries. The new chargers can even wake lithium batteries from standby mode unlike traditional charging methods which can require a more manual process.

The foundation of safe, fast and precise charging from Minn Kota’s new Precision Line of battery chargers is automatic, multi-stage charging which adjusts output based on the current needed to charge Lithium, Flooded Lead-Acid or AGM batteries in each stage of the charging cycle.  These battery-specific charge curves can then be selected individually by bank, allowing for endless options when it comes to trolling motor and accessory battery power. Boaters and anglers can run outboard manufacturer-recommended AGM-style cranking batteries while running a trolling motor or accessories with lithium power. Anglers with a dedicated electronics battery powering multiple fish finders will also appreciate the addition of a 5 bank, 10 amp option.

5 Ways the Minn Kota One-Boat Network Helps You Work Smarter

The power and precision of Minn Kota, together with the intelligence of Humminbird is an unstoppable combination that delivers new levels of boat control. That’s why we created the One-Boat Network™ of products, to help any angler do more with their boat to put more fish on the line.

Whether you’re an elite pro winning the Bassmaster Classic or a weekend warrior on the hunt for big fish, the more your trolling motor and fish finder work together, the more successful you can be.
But how?

Link here to find out how

Humminbird and Minn Kota Pro, Ott DeFoe, Utilizes One-Boat Network Technology to Win 2019 Bassmaster Classic

When the Tennessee River was announced as the location for the 2019 Bassmaster Classic last year, Humminbird and Minn Kota pro angler Ott DeFoe was quickly named the odds-on favorite to win the tournament by prognosticators, media and competitors alike. After all, he grew up fishing these waters and a channel of the river now runs through the backyard of his home just outside of Knoxville, Tenn.

When it comes to the Bassmaster Classic, however, past history on a body of water doesn’t always translate to success. Find out how Ott looked to his Humminbird and Minn Kota products to find and unlock ideal locations on his way to being crowned the 2019 Bassmaster Classic Champion.

Fishing division steers Johnson to another record year

Booming business for Minn Kota & Humminbird
originally posted in Angling-International

Johnson Outdoors’ flagship fishing division, which includes the likes of Humminbird and Minn Kota, helped the group deliver record results for the second year in a row.

Strong demand for its products, and those in the company’s diving brands, propelled an 11% increase in sales. Operating profit for the year grew 38%.

“Unprecedented growth in our fishing business has driven record results for the second year in a row on the strength of revolutionary consumer-driven innovation. Our goal is consistent, bigger, better new product success like this across our entire brand portfolio,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

“Importantly, deeper, richer consumer understanding is at the core of everything we do. Going forward, our ability to connect with more consumers in new, more meaningful ways will enable us to fully leverage and maximise investments in digital transformation, marketing sophistication and e-commerce to enhance performance in all segments and channels.”

The company also reported that its Watercraft Recreation business, which includes its fishing kayak brands, saw declines across all segments which had a negative impact on its revenue.

It has also been announced that a former CEO of sports giant Nike has been appointed to its Board.

William Perez was also President and CEO of S.C. Johnson & Son, the $10b sales household cleaning supplies multi-national, from 1996 to 2004. After leaving to join Nike, he then became President and CEO of chewing gum maker, Wm. Wrigley, from 2006 to 2008. He was also a senior advisor at New York Investment banker, Greenhill and Co., from 2010 until last year.

In 2017 he founded FamGen, a firm specialising in consulting family-owned businesses on strategy, planning and global expansion

“Bill is a proven business leader who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in all facets of running a global company,” said Johnson-Leopold. “We will benefit from his insights and counsel as we develop new strategies to enhance value to our market and consumers.”

ICAST 2018: Minn Kota Launches New Built in MEGA Down Imaging in Motors

Minn Kota® Launches New Trolling Motors with
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging™

Minn Kota the leader in trolling motor innovation, will debut Built-In MEGA Down Imaging™ in its trolling motors at the American Sportfishing Association’s International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST).

For the first time, anglers will have the option to select a Minn Kota Ulterra™, Terrova^®, Ultrex™ or Fortrex^® trolling motor with Built-In MEGA Down Imaging sonar. The Humminbird^® MEGA Down Imaging transducer will now be integrated into the trolling motor to provide a clean set up at the bow for anglers. Humminbird’s ultra-clear MEGA Imaging™ is the first Down Imaging technology to enter the megahertz range with performance that’s nearly three times greater than traditional 455 kHz frequencies. It results in the clearest, sharpest on-screen images ever seen.

With Built-In MEGA Down Imaging, the transducer is housed in the indestructible lower motor unit and the wiring runs through the composite shaft providing clean rigging that is protected from wear and tear. In addition, having the transducer integrated into the trolling motors allows anglers to see what is directly below the bow of the boat, allowing anglers to make better decisions on where, and how, to fish.

“The integration of Minn Kota and Humminbird products is part of our commitment to providing innovative solutions for anglers as they seek to find and catch more fish,” said Minn Kota Brand Manager Brad Henry.
 

Humminbird & Minn Kota Linked for Better Fishing with Charles Sim

Linking your Minn Kota trolling motor to your networked Humminbirds will allow you to precisely navigate your boat right on the juice. Listen to Bassmaster Classic qualifier Charles Sim as he explains the importance and benefits of linking your Humminbird electronics to your Minn Kota trolling motor.

KVD Joins MINN KOTA TEAM

Check out the video announcement of KVD. 

2017 ICAST Minn Kota Reveals New 15 Foot Talon!

Introducing the all-new Talon shallow water anchor. Up to 15' deep, with multiple anchoring modes, and control from the bow, transom, console, remote or mobile app. Unlock more water, and never miss another fish. Only with Talon.

G-Man Moves to Humminbird and Minn Kota!

The 2016 BASS Angler of the Year Gerald Swindle is now running Humminbird, Minn Kota and Talons for the 2017 Elite Season. 

ICAST 2016 Best In Show the Minn Kota Ultrex with Brett Hite

The talk of ICAST 2016 was the Minn Kota Ultrex. Everyone was crowding it and having a look and for good reason. It really is a smart trolling motor with all the control of a traditional cable foot control motor. Listen to BASS Elite star Brett Hite as he takes us through the many features of this award winning  trolling motor.

Minn Kota and Humminbird Hitting Super Sales

Great first quarter reflects amazing products

Originally posted in Angling International

Strong new products from the Minn Kota and Humminbird brands, alongside another improved performance from its kayak and canoe operation, helped Johnson Outdoors deliver increased revenue and reduced operating losses in the first quarter of the year.

Total company operating loss during the seasonally slow Q1 was $0.9 million compared to $7.3 million in 2015. Prime drivers for the improvement, said the company, was higher volume and lower legal expenses. Johnson was involved in a successful patent dispute with Garmin International Inc last year.

Net sales for the quarter increased 20% to $85.3 million compared to $70.8 million in the corresponding period last year. Pre-season demand in key fishing channels powered a 35% surge in Marine Electronics revenue. Watercraft also continued its revival with a 17% increase as gains in Old Town and accessory brands kept pace with the improved paddle market.

“We are very pleased with our strong start to the fiscal year. Our fishing, camping and water recreation businesses are heading into the key selling periods for our products during the next six months with strong, positive momentum,” said Helen Johnson–Leipold, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Buy and Save with Minn Kota

Thinking of a new trolling motor or Talon? Check out the great promotions offered by Minn Kota. 

Click here for the link. 

EO - Electric Outboard Motor

The all-new Minn Kota EO provides up to 9 hours of primary propulsion for smaller boats – meaning you’ve got more than enough power for a full day of catching your limit. It’s backed up with a rock-solid bracket, battery-boosting Digital Maximizer, and the strength and reliability of the Minn Kota name.

Promotions from Minn Kota

Some great promotions from Minn Kota. If you're in the market for a new motor, we strongly recommend them.

The Frosts Ice Over Bass Pro Shop Competition Part 2

Welcome back to IBASSIN’s exclusive interview with Simon Frost. He and his wife Melanie recently captured the 2013 Bass Pro Shop Lake Simcoe Open.

By Luigi De Rose

Simon and Melanie with one hell of a
big trophy!
(Photo: Derek Strub)

IBASSIN

You stated the smallmouth were in a state of transition. What was your most productive depth?

Simon

We found the best areas were 28 to 32 feet of water. The bass were right on that break line. The Humminbird Side Imaging would pick up the bass and if we drifted over the break, you could see the bass on the depth finder.

The side imaging was really important for keeping on the break lines. Those bass were right on that line and we had to follow it closely.

IBASSIN

You explained that the weather made fishing difficult. Did you fish are variety of places or just stay in one area?

Simon

We just fished one place that we knew very well. Actually, we didn’t get a chance to pre-practice for this tournament. We had booked the week off but couldn’t get away. That is what made the win so surprising because we didn’t get to practice at all.

IBASSIN

What were the best techniques?

Simon

Tubes were the only bait working.  We tried a few other things but tubes are what worked. We did try drop shotting for some suspended bass but they never bit. We casted far from the boat and slowly popped the tube back. All the tubes were rigged on 1/2oz jigheads.

The area we fished had no bait. We didn’t mark any bait and we only marked a few suspended bass. Most of the bass were right on the bottom. We think they were just inactive.

IBASSIN

What gear were you using? Please be specific and don’t worry about plugging any sponsors.

The Stradic Ci4 reel has become very common to serious
bass anglers. They Simon loves how well balanced it is with
the Cumara rods.
and 

Simon

The tube set up was all Shimano. The rod was a 7’6” Cumara medium action-spinning rod.  The reel was a Shimano 2500 Stradic Ci4.  We spooled up with 5lb test Power Pro braid and then a 12lb test XPS Fluorocarbon leader. That long rod was really helpful at casting great distances and getting that bait away from boat.

IBASSIN

Why are you using 5lb test braided line? Why so light?

Simon

I know, 5lb test is really light but it makes a difference. The thin line has less drag on the water and help the bait sink. We have never broken the braid on any bass. Our largest smallmouth on that 5lb test Power Pro has been about 7lbs plus we have landed numerous drum in the 15 pound range.

IBASSIN

I have been meaning to ask this question for a while. I have noticed that you have a Minn Kota Terrova Trolling motor. Why are you using that style of motor?

The Terrova offers many features
ideal for fishing deep water. It also
is matched to many Humminbird units. 

Simon

I switched to the Terrova because is has the I-PILOT feature. One of the neatest features is the spot lock. It works with GPS to hold you on a specific spot. If you drift off the mark, the motor will kick in and bring you right back to that spot. Recently, I have the I-PILOT Link feature which links to the Humminbird unit so you can share the GPS on your unit. You can use the link to create a route for the trolling motor to follow. We didn’t really create a route during the open but for open water that Terrova is really great. The motor has 101lbs of trust so it easily kept us in place.

IBASSIN

I guess that covers it. Very glad that we got a chance to chat and congratulations again on a great win.

Simon

Thanks Luigi!

Simon and Melanie Frost are super people. Simon has been on several television shows and featured in many magazine articles. His deep water smallmouth skills are very well known and respected. 

The Frosts Ice Over Bass Pro Shop Competition Part 1

IBASSIN exclusive interview with Simon and Melanie Frost on their Bass Pro Shop Lake Simcoe Open Victory

By Luigi De Rose

Simon and Melanie Frost proudly display their winning catch.
(Photos: Yvonne Brown)

The Bass Pro Shop Lake Simcoe Open can be considered this country’s premier one-day bass tournament. Lake Simcoe, an hour north of Toronto, Ontario, Canada is arguably the best smallmouth bass fishery in the world. This lake is ground zero for Canadian bass fishing history. Host to countless tournaments, Lake Simcoe holds the Canadian bass tournament limit record with just over 31 pounds for 5 bass and the heaviest tournament bass ever caught. Coincidentally that 8.05lb smallmouth and the heaviest creel occurred on the same day but by two different fishing teams.

IBASSIN had the honour to chat with Simon Frost, one part of his husband and wife dynamic duo, about their victory.

IBASSIN

Congratulations on the win!

Simon

Thanks!

IBASSIN

So, what are you going to do with all that money?

Simon

Melanie says we have to fix the roof.

IBASSIN

What!? That must be one expensive roof. How much did you win?

Simon

The grad prize was $13 000 plus another $2000 for the Minn Kota and Humminbird contingency prizes. Yeah, it is a nice pay cheque.

IBASSIN

Explain to the readers the fishing conditions on Saturday, October 19, 2013.

Simon

It was terrible. It was wet, windy and cold. During that day it really cooled off and we were cold. The strong wind came from the southwest and created 2 – 3 foot waves at take off. But on the way back, there were 5- 6-foot waves. It took us an hour and a half to get back to the ramp.

The Bass Pro Shop Lake Simcoe Open actually occurs on two lakes, Lake Simcoe and its neighbour Lake Couchiching. The tournament weigh in and ramp is in the town of Orillia on the shores of Lake Couchiching. Typically, anglers journey into Lake Simcoe to find the larger smallmouth bass.

IBASSIN

How were the fishing conditions?

Simon

The fishing conditions were not great and different than in past years. Lake Simcoe hadn’t turned over yet and that mixed up the bass. Typically, the water temp for this event is around 52 to 53 F but we found the water temp about 60F from top to bottom. What this does is spread the fish out. The bass seemed to still be in late summer patterns instead of fall ones. You need to have the colder water temps to get the big weights.

IBASSIN

Not trying to diminish your achievement but your 22.85 lbs winning weight is very low compared to past Opens.

Simon

Yeah, we were shocked how poor the weights were when we arrived back at the ramp. We were hoping for a top 10 finish.  Our best weight at the Open was 27lbs and that got us 9^th place that year. Having 22lbs and winning was shocking.

It’s a bit of a funny story. We were one of the first to arrive at the ramp. The tournament organizers ask all teams who think they have over 20lbs to wait and do a drive by weigh-in. So we put the boat on the trailer and waited. Team after team walked passed us to the stage. Finally, two other teams met up with us and waited. We got to talking and Derek Strub suggested we go last because we might have the largest bag of bass. So we waited even more. We ended up being the last boat.

Giving the crowd something to cheer!

IBASSIN

How did that winning moment feel?

Simon

It was unreal. Total shock at first and then we were just amazed that we won.

Come back for part 2 with IBASSIN and Simon Frost as he explains their technique and strategy to figuring out the smallmouth. 

2013 The New 10 and 12 Foot Minn Kota Talons with Brent Ehrler and IBASSIN

IBASSIN.com found FLW Cup Champ Brent Ehrler in the Minn Kota booth at ICAST 2013. He explains all the features on the new and improved 10 and 12 foot Talons. These shallow water anchors are truly amazing.