Trolling plates

[Red Hook]

What are the pros and cons of using a trolling plate? I am new to kokanee trolling and would rather spent my time and money on tackle, not a kicker motor. I am setting up 1650 Crestliner with a 75 hp Honda. My current slow speed is 2.2 mph checker with a GPS.

[trollmonkey]

I've said on here before I really like the Happy troller on my 50 HP Johnson. It was 80 or 90 dollars and easy to install. I was running around 2.5 mph before the plate ,about 1.4-1.7mph after. Cons are you have to drill holes in the cavitation plate,but to set your rig up like you want there'll probably be some drilling involved.Also you have to remember to trip it before you take off.

[Red Hook]

I know I will need to drill holes to have the boat I want, I just want to get it right the first time. Is there any way to figure how much speed will be lost with a trolling plate?

[SuperD]

With your current speed and set up, figure at least 1 mph. Some guys that feel that they've lost too much speed use a hole saw to drill a hole or 2 in the trolling plate.