Using the Spot Lock function of the updated i-Pilot to target fall crappies

[Jason Halfen #511]

Here's a link to an article and video that shows how the Spot Lock function of the updated MinnKota i-Pilot system can be used to target some nice fall crappies on the Mississippi River. In this particular video, Spot Lock was used to hold boat position off the tip of a very productive tree, while working against a steady downstream current and a swirling wind. This application really demonstrates the true power of the i-Pilot: it will handle routine boat control tasks while you focus your time and attention on catching fish. Hope you like it!

Using Spot Lock to target fall river crappies

[kosmo]

thats really kool. thanks

[primitivefrn]

I like, Thanks for takeing time to do. Good looking crappie

[gabowman]

Jason, youre always very simple to understand when demonstrating something. I have the older version of the I-polot and hardly ever use the spotlock for my style of fishing. Are there other features that are enhanced on the newer version other than the obvious change in the control?

[Jason Halfen #511]

There are a couple of additional functional changes that have been made to the overall system. I'll be covering those in the coming weeks.

[lcookie]

I have been using that feature on the river for trout several times. Also use it on the lakes when the wind is constant from one direction. Variable wind direction really complicates things. The best part is when I bring my little one with me the ipilot lets me focus on teachng her.

[papasage]

i have a older i pilot and some times it will start turnning on its own . seams like it does it in serton places .would like to have the newer one with the spot lock and conture track . going to start saving the $$$$$$ or sell some over stocked fishing equipment .

[CrappieCrazed]

Jason, I always love your info. I have the minnkota with i-pilot and love it for the record a track for trolling crankbaits but ill be honest the spotlock feature makes me so mad some times. Not to take anything from your video but that particular situation was about the best situation for the spotlock feature. I fish on lakes and when using spotlock in even a 10mph wind is a joke. Don't get me wrong, in some situations (not many) it has kept me on a spot but that is either in a situation like your in or 0-5mph wind. I do fish out of a high sided deep-v boat and I would say that it could work a little better in a heavy bass boat Matter of fact, just the other day I tried staying just close to a laydown with spotlock in approx 10-15mph wind. I would get blown approx 25-30ft off my spot and the motor would race you back, then the boat would go past the spot. It was worthless. Im glad it works so well for ya. We fished the ohio river for cats drift fishing this past summer. NOW THAT was where that thing really shined!!!!! It kept us in the "general" area and caught fish without dropping an anchor or anything. There are times that thing is nice. Other times it makes me want to pull my hair out.

You think that It would tend to do better on a bass boat than a very light deep v alum boat???

[Crappiegirl1]

is the 2012 version available at bps yet?

[papasage]

i am gonna git me one soonThumbs UpHands Clapping going through my shed and having a yard sale . am 65 years old and don`t need all the tools i have and a lot of tackle . especiley the bass luers i have as i don`t bass fish .