MotorGuide Digital Wireless Series
Look, Ma, no hands! That's the wonder of MotorGuide's series of wireless-remote trolling motors. Unlike other bow-mount remotes I've seen, this line has a cable-free foot-operated control. I installed the W55 version (12-volt, 55 pounds of thrust, 54-inch shaft) on the bow of my 16-foot skiff and wound up giggling as I tapped the remote foot switches--which allow steering adjustments as fine as 1-degree increments--to spin the boat in circles. You can also run these units with an optional handheld remote, but the foot pedal is more useful and more fun. Available in fresh- and saltwater models, in both 12- and 24-volt versions in various shaft lengths with thrust ratings as high as 75 pounds. $450-"$610; 920-929-5040; motorguide.com --J.M.