OK, I'm in the market for a new trolling motor in the 55# thrust area.  I'm looking at the Minn-kota Maxxum in the variable speed.  My boat is 18' long and the current trolling motor is an older 40# thrust Minn-Kota that came with the boat when I bought it new in 2003.  I always thought the trolling motor was undersized to push my boat around and I finally managed to crack the housing back enough to replace it.  Does anyone have any thoughts about what would be the best choice and where to pick one up.  I was at the BPS in Vegas yesterday, but the store was out of stock of that model.  As a matter of fact, the online store is also back ordered.  Cabela's is about $80 cheaper for the Maxxum, so I may go that way unless someone can suggest a Motorguide alternative?  Thanks.

This is a "ford or Chevy" question. Ask 6 guys and it will split fairly evenly. I have a Motorguide and have been happy with it. Whichever brand you buy make sure you get a digital control unit. The way these units control speed is more efficient than the older analog systems and gives you vastly improved battery life per charge when operating at anything less than full speed. Minn-Kota calls this Digital Maximiser and Motor Guide calls it Vari Max.