First Impressions of Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my share of innovations, but the Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps promises a level of convenience and technological integration that’s genuinely exciting. From Minn Kota’s reputation for durability to the inclusion of i-Pilot Link GPS and MEGA Imaging, this trolling motor screams premium and caters directly to serious anglers.
I was seeking a trolling motor that would allow me hands-free boat control while fishing solo. Also, I needed a motor that could provide superior sonar imaging to locate fish in complex underwater structures.
The unboxing experience was impressive. The Minn Kota Ulterra felt incredibly robust; the materials looked and felt top-notch, and the build quality was immediately apparent. Compared to my older trolling motor, a more basic model from a competitor, the Ulterra felt like a significant upgrade, promising effortless deployment and advanced features.
I opted for the Minn Kota Ulterra due to its auto stow/deploy feature and integrated MEGA Imaging. These features were not available in the other models I was considering. I was genuinely excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype, hoping it would redefine my fishing experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Minn Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps was on a large reservoir known for its challenging underwater structure and finicky bass population. The weather was partly cloudy, with a moderate chop on the water. Deploying the motor for the first time using the auto stow/deploy feature was incredibly smooth and effortless.
The i-Pilot Link GPS system allowed me to set a course and maintain a consistent speed, even against the wind. I quickly became familiar with the remote and foot pedal controls. The MEGA Imaging revealed stunningly detailed underwater structures, helping me pinpoint potential fish-holding locations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Minn Kota Ulterra continues to impress. It has endured various conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and even a few accidental bumps against submerged obstacles.
The motor shows minimal signs of wear and tear, which attests to its robust construction. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to keep it running smoothly. Compared to my previous trolling motor, the Minn Kota Ulterra provides more power, better control, and significantly more detailed sonar imaging, which has drastically improved my fishing success.
Breaking Down the Features of Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps
Specifications
- Voltage: 36V. This high voltage provides ample power for larger boats and demanding conditions.
- Thrust: 112 lbs. The 112 lbs of thrust ensures strong boat control, even in wind and current.
- Shaft Length: 72″. The 72-inch shaft is ideal for boats with higher freeboards, ensuring the prop stays submerged.
- MEGA Imaging: Integrated MEGA Side Imaging and MEGA Down Imaging provide incredibly detailed sonar views.
- i-Pilot Link: The i-Pilot Link GPS system allows for advanced boat control, including spot-lock, track recording, and autopilot.
- Auto Stow/Deploy: This feature automatically stows and deploys the motor with the push of a button.
- Power Trim: Adjust the motor’s depth with the touch of a button.
- Included Accessories: i-Pilot Link Remote, Remote Charging Cable, USB DC Adapter, Lanyard, Heading Sensor, 30′ Ethernet Extension Cable, Corded Foot Pedal, MKP-33 Prop, and Mounting Hardware. These accessories provide a complete and ready-to-use system.
These specifications combine to deliver a powerful, versatile, and technologically advanced trolling motor, offering anglers unparalleled control and situational awareness.
Performance & Functionality
The Minn Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps excels in both performance and functionality. The motor provides smooth and precise boat control, making it easy to navigate even in tight spaces. The MEGA Imaging is a game-changer, revealing details I never saw with traditional sonar.
The i-Pilot Link system is intuitive and reliable. The Auto Stow/Deploy feature simplifies launching and retrieving the boat. While the price is high, the features and performance justify the investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Minn Kota Ulterra features a robust and well-thought-out design. It is built with high-quality materials and feels incredibly durable.
The controls are intuitive and easy to use, though some may require a brief learning curve to fully master all the features.
Durability & Maintenance
The Minn Kota Ulterra is built to last, with durable components and a robust design. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance.
With proper care, this trolling motor should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Minn Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a remote, foot pedal, heading sensor, and Ethernet cable.
Users can further customize their setup with additional accessories such as battery monitors or specialized mounting brackets. The motor is also compatible with Humminbird fish finders for seamless integration with the i-Pilot Link system.
Pros and Cons of Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps
Pros
- Auto Stow/Deploy: Effortless deployment and retrieval.
- MEGA Imaging: Unparalleled underwater detail.
- i-Pilot Link: Advanced GPS boat control.
- Powerful Thrust: Excellent boat control in all conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh environments.
Cons
- High Price: A significant investment.
- 36V System: Requires three batteries, adding weight and cost.
Who Should Buy Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps?
The Minn Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps is perfect for serious anglers who demand the best in boat control and sonar technology. It’s ideal for those fishing large bodies of water, navigating complex structures, and fishing solo.
This product may be overkill for casual anglers or those with smaller boats. A must-have accessory is a high-quality 36V battery system to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Minn-Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps
The Minn Kota 1358996 Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor 36V 112 Lbs. 72″ Shaft With Mega Imaging And I Pilot Link Gps is an exceptional piece of equipment that delivers on its promises. While the price is steep, the advanced features, robust construction, and unparalleled performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a top-of-the-line trolling motor that will enhance their fishing experience. If you’re ready to elevate your angling game, the Minn Kota Ulterra is the way to go.