As usual I'm not really sure what your end game is here. Lots of good info shared especially by TS. Seeing what you hope to do I agree with Melvin about having both trolling motors. The transom mount is for getting you from point A to point B. Its other use is for trolling. Thats about it. They arent very good for positioning the boat. Thats where the bow mount comes in. ( TS quote) Due to your fishing style, it screams transom mount to me. When I think of Bow mount, I think precision control so an angler can pound banks or structure hands free. If you are going to attempt the trolling quest and continue to chase panfish, pickerel, bass then having both will serve you well. As far as size goes I believe in Overkill is Underrated. If the wind kicks up, a storm is headed your way, you will wish you had ten times the power you have. You will never regret having more power. You says the boat is about 500 pounds. Thats heavy for a 14' vs an aluminum boat. Batteries are next. You will need at least two. Three would be better. Price is an issue but lithium really is the way to go. Longer life span, more efficient and much lighter. How will you charge the batteries? Onboard charger? Lead batteries need to be charged after every use. Best to plug them is as soon as you get home. Battery care and maintenance are critical to their performance and life span. Several guys I know are running Lithium and getting at least two trips between charges. Thats impressive considering how much time we spend on the trolling motor. Graphs do eat up a lot of power and sometimes when connected to a battery with other things running you may get interference. Good luck with the endeavor.
