Dan668

I'll echo Bills comments. Better luck in the pool versus Maclean. I have a place on this system but generally trailer over to gbay instead.

Thanks for the write up. I had the same brands in mind, but ultimately decided to stick with my 3 group 31 agm for my trolling motor. They are 4 years old and resale probably isn't great. Would have loved the space and weight savings. My Northstar AGM starter/house battery is on its way out. Too bad my outboard is an Optimax, doesn't look like Mercury approved lithium batteries for that line. Can't see much chatter online on it, but seems like it has to do with the alternator not being able to sufficiently charge the battery.

I was looking at the Fuel Keg, not a huge fan of the ring myself. I get the Flame King 1 lb'ers off Amazon.com. $70 for two including shipping, tax, conversion. Pricey but pays for itself pretty quickly with my usage.

I have had both the Minn Kota Terrova (Gen 1) and the Xi5. The spot lock on the Xi5 was much better than the Terrova. Although the odd time, it would glitch, and spin one way wanting to rip everything out as it couldnt spin anymore lol. There was an update of sorts that fixed that. I did have to replace the transducer, that was $400. On both Terrova and Xi5, had the seal go requiring the lower unit needing to be rebuilt due to water intrusion. Thankfully this was covered under warranty. If I were to to pick between both now, I would definitely lean towards the Terrova as the spot lock was greatly improved. It also has lift assist, the Xi5 can be a nuisance to stow, especially if choppy out. The Xi5 remote is very basic. I also like the autopilot feature on the pedal, which is missing on the motorguide. The pedal on the xi5 also isn't great, and may require some modification. I no longer use either. Moved to an Ultrex, and then onto a Lowrance Ghost to tie in with my finders.

Radioworld is great for support. But echo the above, can find better pricing anywhere else. Agreed on the Garmin 106SV. Debated buying one for livescope and getting rid of my active target. Not sure if I got a dud or maybe I have to learn to use it better lol.

You will be happy with the Tatula. I have a pair with the AGS guides, but have used the others as well.

Agreed. Power handle makes all the difference. First upgrade my reels get if it's missing. Nice, never seen a musky sized spy bait before. I think I may pick one up. Have you used them before?

Interesting, will have to see if I can find something similar. Thanks

Makes sense. I have agreed value replacement on my boat. It's 11 years old now. And it looks like another $ value is assigned for the electric motor. Guessing this is a rider. I think I will just reach out to a few other brokers for more information. I just would hate to insure something and find out it's not applicable.

Getting close to renewal for my boat insurance. Does anyone insure their fishing tackle in the case of theft? I have spoken with a few parties but cannot seem to get a straight answer. I understand, my home policy should cover me at home. But what type of coverage would I need, say if I were at a friend's cottage for the weekend or a campground?

Echo the above. I ordered for the first time from PPT. Normally I have to run around or place multiple orders everywhere, but they literally had everything under one roof. Including all the tackle that is currently hot and hard to find.

Charts don't change much, but for Lowrance users, you lose the advanced map options which is helpful for highlighting a single range and shallow water. Sucks to renew yearly. Might try C Maps although from looking at there viewer online, Navionics seems to superior.

I recall seeing certain brands being approved say on the Merc four strokes. Haven't seen anything on the Opti's yet. Issues with the alternator or something from some quick reading. But I know a few who have run with no issues. Thinking to retire my Northstar, as it will be the ninth season. Seems to be fine, but not sure if I trust it with a pair of 12's and Active Target anymore. Anyhow, interesting to see what brands everyone is targeting and what the best value seems to be.

Considering upgrading my Northstar cranking/house agm. But still doing research. Some are for. Some are aagainst. Hard to say. Great to see the prices falling over the past year or two.

Based on what was listed, Terrova for sure since you intend to go to Humminbird. The Xi5 can sync with certain Lowrance units however the foot pedal takes some getting used too. My Terrova served me well in the past, but I now run a Ghost. Whatever you choose, you will love the spot lock. I personally love the foot pedal for bass and musky. Hardly use the remotes on any of the motors I have had.