Ocean Kayak Torque | Electric Trolling Motor
Ocean Kayk Torque kayak with electric trolling motor.
The Ocean Kayak Torque features a 36 lb thrust Minn Kota electric trolling motor. The Torque is modified version of their popular Prowler Angler Trident 13 kayak. Modified to incorporate a unique trolling motor module and battery compartment as well as speed and foot steering controls. One of the biggest debates among kayakers is that kayaing is about paddling. The Torque is also a paddling kayak complete with skeg plug is the motor unit is removed. The trolling motor is for maneuvering while fishing, since you can steer with your feet and fish at the same time. The Torque is also a great kayak option for those with disabilities or have trouble with paddling.
The trolling motor on the Torque is a Minn Kota 36 lb, 12-volt trolling motor. The specially designed motor plug housing is designed to float in case of accidentally dropping it in the water. The motor is also saltwater capable. To top it off the Minn Kota trolling motor also features their Digital Maximizer which is designed to regulate the power and heat. This means the motor runs cooler and is more efficient which can extend run-time up to 5 times as much on a single charge. Steering is accomplished by foot pegs which controls the oversized rudder. Speed is via a center mounted dial for infinite forward/reverse settings. The only thing missing is a battery monitor which seems like it could have been easily integrated.
As cool and well thought-out as the Torque is, the drop-in motor unit does have a few drawbacks. For starters the motor unit extends about 5 inches below the kayak. This immediately brings issues with draft. You also need to have the kayak in the water before installing the motor(plus, installing the battery and motor in the water greatly reduces the kayak's overall weight). And lastly there are concerns with beach landings and damaging the motor unit. Aside from those few concerns the trolling motor addition is fun and easy to operate.
The Torque also has many of the features of the Angler Trident - minus the rod holders (I guess they couldn't fit everything in). But, there is ample room in the stern tank well for rigging a "fishing crate."
Ocean Kayak Torque features:
- Minn Kota saltwater trolling motor
- Integrated dashboard with infinitely variable speed control
- Kill switch
- Removable skeg plug
- Battery box (battery not included)
- Comfort Plus seat back
- Oversize tank well with bungee
- Large bow hatch with buckles
- Adjustable foot braces
- Fish finder transducer compatible scupper
- Paddle keepers
- Molded-in cup holder
- Deck-mounted carrying handles
Find more about the Ocean Kayak Torque click here
-
Category: Fishing, Ocean Kayak
Hello there, thanks for sharing this article. I’ve had my eye on the Torque for a while. I got the chance to demo one not too long ago, I did a write up here:
http://www.pierandsurf.com/fishing-forum/showthread.php?t=76819
Excellent boat. Great on inlet areas, a little bit long for narrow rivers. Handles well in both situations and is rock stable. The rod well is great for drink storage on longer trips. Seat is comfotrable up to 5 hours and the adjustable foot position bracket works very well. Boat is a bit long for truck beds but easy enough to get on the roof.
Nice stable kayak. Able to take wife and son out on the lake or bay and have them feel comfortable and enjoy it. Confidence inspiring control and balance. A bit slower due to width than say scrambler model. Paddling boat solo, I have lots of extra room for gear. Seats are very comfortable and adjustable.