*NEW SYSTEM AutoBoat GPS Smart Head (cleaner setup & more features. Nov 2024 release)* tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff *OLD SYSTEM SHOWN - AutoBoat GPS Trolling Motor Adapter Upgrade With Anchor Mode & More!* tbnation.net/products/autoboat-com-gps-marinizado-ancora?ref=LiteSkiff *100ah Mini LiPO4 12V Battery:* www.litime.com/products/litime-12v-100ah-mini-lifepo4-lithium-battery-upgraded-100a-bms-max-1280wh-energy?ref=k8l6rYjiXC_Dlb
Wow! Didn’t know this existed. Almost bought an Xi3 but this will work better. Was going to be a challenge mounting xi3, plus 2x the price, also my father-in-law has old Minn Kota Riptide sitting in garage that works great which he said I could have! Booyah! Looks like should ship mid September.
@@teachitandlearnit that is awesome. The Riptide is the motor I’m currently using for when I fish saltwater. If you end up in SW Florida let’s go fishing together! ❤️
A lot cheaper than other GPS motor solutions for kayaks and it works better. Way easier to mount, lighter weight, and I like the controls/app features better. Old Town AutoPilot is nearly $5000! Many other GPS motors will be $1300+ and harder to mount. This setup you can actually mid-hull mount in pods or pedal drive areas. The new route follow modes are totally sick. Big fan of this company….so much so I’m putting my money where my mouth is and becoming a co-owner for U.S. We will build up manufacturing in Georgia. You can get 5% off order by using discount code KayakDIY at TBNation.net We have been working hard to decrease pricing further, but it isn’t really necessary. AutoBoat has been selling very well at current pricing. AutoBoat’s mission is to bring the latest Marine Fishing technology to the masses. However, we will not please everyone with pricing. Some people have the idea that it is somehow inferior to other GPS motors just because it is new to the U.S territory. In fact it actually has more features and higher accuracy in tests. It has been used for past 3yrs in South America by professional famous anglers (example: Jonny Hoffman) on Amazon River. The AutoBoat pricing is nearly half of what most other GPS motors are. AutoBoat is more versatile to mount, modular design allows easy motor upgrade and customer repair should anything become damaged. If anything is to fail it would likely be the trolling motor and not AutoBoat. AutoBoat is built pretty robust. The whole system is tool-less design and installs in 2-3 minutes. We also have kayak mount manufacturers on board who have already designed motor mounts perfect for AutoBoat. YakGadget has tons of motor mounts.
I'm a software engineer. I've been contemplating building my own, which wouldn't be that hard technically, but there is a lot of time you would have to spend testing and retesting and so on. I think I could build the motor controller, with remote for about $150, Steering mechanism with a stepping motor and that cute little collar thing that goes on the shaft, and Add the GPS for about $25 - $50, have to 3-D print a few parts, might take 5 or 6 prints to get it just right. So, let's say, all in maybe $400. Plus, about 20-100 hours of my otherwise limited time. Then me trying to remember enough calculus to do the math... Doable. But, I give myself a value of $25/hr (which is WAY below my standard going rate), then I will be adding from $500 - $2500 to the build. At that, I consider $700 to be a bargain. I hope they sell 10,000 of these.
@@richardhasting6046 I'm a software engineer with an electronic engineering degree too, considering the time and testing, I'd rather just spend the money and be on the water ASAP. The parts aren't the issue, it would be the research time and the manufacturing. I 100% that this is a great idea and if a popular fishing related company built this, it wouldn't be just $700, add $1000 to the price if Minn Kota did this, but they won't do it because it cuts into their version for spot loc. These toys are not for the average joe kayak fisherman, just like $5k kayaks. It is next level kayak fishing. The best part of this is that it features can easily be added. I expect, some knock offs, but Autoboat is the name that most know by now, and the future looks great for them!
Thanks. Preorders won’t ship until mid September. Got some cool features being added. Also the entire video was filmed with gen1 unit and gen2 is built even better with more capabilities and durability in mind. Gen 1 design was used for about 3yrs in South America by thousands of anglers. Gen 2 takes all those 3yrs of angler suggestions and design improvements. Gen 2 units will be shipped in pre-orders.
Thanks for visiting my channel. I've tweaked a bit more on my setup since that video and it's working hassle free right now in the pedal slot. Ill have another video soon.
Wow 😮 no way! I was just looking for options like this. I have wanted a remote control motor setup for my Hobie Tandem Island. Nice if I want to lay on tramps and wind stops. Total game changer! 👏
Im so glad I caught this video. I have been debating myself for weeks what trolling motor I want and how much to spend. This thing solved all those issues I had with getting a basic now, with the intention of upgrading depending on how I use it. Thanks so much.
Well I've definitely found my next yak upgrade, I have an old town sportsman 120 with a 55lb thrust motor built into the fish finder hole, I never thought of this existing but it's a good idea. 👍
AutoBoat has loads of app features releasing soon. One feature is gonna make creating routes so freaking easy. Basically waypoint stringing. Also some features I can’t discuss yet. Pretty stoked how this company is dialed in to the needs of not just boat owners, but kayak anglers. AutoBoat has worked with me and several other kayak anglers to improve the user experience for users of all types of watercraft.
What makes you more likely to go with this over an XI3? Cost savings between the autoboat adapter and a transom mount trolling motor is marginal, depending on the trolling motor you get.
*IF MOUNTING ON THE STERN OF YOUR KAYAK BOAT* then you lose navpoint heading function & route follow modes. *IF MOUNTING ON THE BOW OR MIDDLE OF KAYAK/BOAT* then you can use all functions.
Definitely a game changer. Only reason I didn’t pull the trigger is because gps only works on bow mount and I am set up stern mount. Only feature I am able to use is spot lock. Drive is going to work no matter what except you have to use the remote in reverse. I need all the features in a stern mount set up. Maybe in the future they will get this worked out 🤞
The AutoBoat system does have a stern mount mode which makes steering not inverted. Anchor lock works when mounted on stern. Other gps functions won’t. AutoBoat Smart Head is the newest product. The box style Gen1 systems will be supported for warranties and parts but ultimately discontinued. We will now be selling Smart Head. Smart Head has remote firmware update capabilities which allows the system to get better and smarter over time.
For the low price of $650 it could be yours! Lol just ho buy an xi3. Buying this and a cheap trolling motor will still cost more than it. Ita not worth it for this price. Even if you already have a trolling motor, just go spend the extra 75 bucks and get the quality product with proven reliability.
Update: I had a 380mm (15") Length x 25mm" ID x 29mm OD" clamshell sleeve" 3D printed up to increase the smaller 1" diameter shaft trolling motors. In this case, I'm using the Watersnake 34lb Venom. I ended up only using 9" of the sleeve to accommodate the Autoboat collar/motor and the GPS adapter by roughing up the powder coat on the trolling motor shaft with a file, brushed on super glue on both surfaces, then attached the sleeve. Below the Autoboat collar/motor is still the original 1" shaft where my T-mount attaches to. So far, everything is SOLID out on the water.
Minkota has had I-pilot for many years but this is awesome if you already have a small trolling motor. I upgraded to the ulterra 80 pound thrust. this thing is an absolute beast. When on anchor mode it will hold my boat in a ton of wind.
AutoBoat had been around and sold thousands of units in South America. They are just new to USA. They will be based in Oxford Georgia. I personally think the AutoBoat GPS performance and features are better than Ipilot. It seems to hold tighter on anchor mode.
Just got mine mocked up in the front "T-bar" pedal drive mount on my BKC PK14 tandem. I use the pedal drive in the rear slot, and lift/lower the Autoboat via a 3:1 "Z"pulley system at the rear seat.
Tell me what and how you would like me to best show the GPS anchor mode to you. BTW I can’t use term “spot lock” since that is technically trademarked. We are just calling it anchor mode for now. 😉 I’m open to suggestions. Want to make the best possible reviews and content for viewers.
The best way to show anchor mode is to hit anchor mode close to a dock or stump, something that is fixed, where we can see the vessel isn't moving. You could do the same using a drone, to show it isn't moving. The vessel will adjust for the wind, but it shouldn't move off of the GPS point where it was engaged.
@@peterlong9629 I will work at getting that footage. My wife is back in hospital. I will be taking TH-cam break for few days to be with her. TinyBoatNation channel also has one of the AutoBoat units and we are working together to bring the units to America. AutoBoat has been serving South America for 3yr+ with thousands of units in hands of fisherman. They have a video in Portuguese that shows anchor mode holding tight to a bouy market. I think it compared AutoBoat to another brand of GPS motors. I will say the GPS seems more accurate than others and the system tries to hold a much tighter proximity to it’s mark.
Great video thank you! I want a change to the kayak industry standard of spending 2500$ just to troll/anchor. This makes it possible to get into action at less than ~1k
I got more videos coming. I just rigged AutoBoat up on the bow of my Hobie PA. Plan to work with YakGadget to get more transom trolling motor mounts developed for kayaks. We specifically want a Hobie pedal drive motor mount with AutoBoat integrated. Tons of AutoBoat customers have already put AutoBoat motors in their pods on kayaks like FeelFree, Bonafide, and more. I love AutoBoat so much that I joined the company. I’m now a co-owner in AutoBoat USA. We are going to bring technology to the masses by making it as affordable as possible YET ultra-reliable and feature rich.
I'm a 57-year-old Glammi and raising my 5-year-old granddaughter. We love to kayak but I'm just wondering when I won't be able to paddle so far and back again 🤷 We could get around a lot quicker with this and a trolling motor. Thanks for all the info😊
*STERN MOUNT MODE:* simply flips steering so it isn’t inverted. That way when you hit left it goes left and when hitting right it goes right. Without “Stern Mount Mode” the controls would be inverted. Navpoint and all route follow modes WILL NOT work when mounted on stern. Anchor mode WILL WORK when mounted on stern. All brands of GPS motors won’t work on stern for heading (navpoint) or route follow modes……the difference is AutoBoat at least has the stern mount mode so steering is more intuitive rather than inverted. Hope this info helps.
On your Hobie angler set up I have two questions first what pound thrust motor are you using and second any downsides of using spot lock while on the stern?
At 4:32 when you are talking about the downside to mounting it on the stern, you mention the feature “nav point” but don’t really explain what it’s supposed to do. Could you elaborate? I’m considering mounting on the stern, as I’ve got my sonar in the pedal system hole, but would like to understand what I’d be missing out on. The anchoring feature is what I’d be most concerned with.
AutoBoat GPS Smart Modes *Navpoint heading mode* is like shooting a laser straight. The gps motor will hold that heading. *Anchor lock mode* uses motor to hold your position within a few feet of where you press the button. *Manual route mode* string waypoints on map and follow that route *Record route mode* record your movement as a route then return days later and follow that route. *Navpoint Heading Jog* when using Navpoint heading you can jog left or right if there is an obstruction ahead. This is done by holding left or right and letting off when you are on heading you want to NOTE: if mounting on stern you can use app to put into stern mount mode. This flips the left and right controls so they are intuitive and not inverted. When in stern mount you can only use steering/speed controls/ & anchor mode…..all other smart modes mentioned above don’t work. When mounted in center of kayak/boat or on bow all smart features work. Second Note: in app you can set custom gain settings for different size vessels. This is nice because it will tone down the power for small kayak vs large boat. That way you don’t get thrown off. Many other brands don’t have this. Third Note: the blue remote has further range than phones using app. Consider having both available in case a remote battery dies. Fourth Note: gps calibration should be done outside ideally on the water. It takes about 5 seconds but helps with accuracy. No harm in recalibrating often, but not necessary. Fifth note: don’t flip your motor head. This can malposition the electrical internals to be above GPS. This can lead to interference. GPS puck blue arrow must be facing direction of forward thrust when mounted. Many people get this wrong and it can cause inaccurate erratic behavior. The system is very reliable and predictable…but if you install it wrong it predictably creates erratic behavior. We are here to help though. 😉👍
I got one a couple of weeks ago and love it. I have it on my Ascend on the front and love the Navigate button when fishing. I want to put it on my Megellan pedal kayak and it has the nuts for the motor mount in the rear. I know if you put it in the rear it wont have nav but what about instead of putting motor in #5 can you put it in reverse. Would that help out the nav.
*The new AutoBoat GPS motor adapter system eliminates the box. It is the AutoBoat SMART HEAD system.* It is exactly what you would want. You will love it. Plus you will have features that even Old Town Autopilot doesn't have. The AutoBoat Smart Head system will have anchor jog WITHOUT needing to mount additional sensor like other brands. Use code KAYAKDIY tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
If you have it stern mounted like on your PA14, have you come up with a mechanism to trim the motor up when you come into shallow water and need to get the motor up out of the way? I have a PA14 and it would be a long reach back to try to elevate the motor from the seat and it would be a nuisance to have to get out of seat and try to safely move to the back of the Kayak to elevate the motor.
Brazilian people are awesome. They have a rich culture in fishing. I’ve spent many hours talking with the AutoBoat creator and owner. We are constantly improving the AutoBoat product based on feedback of customers and desire to have the most feature rich GPS motor system on the market at the lowest price. I am joining AutoBoat. I believe in this Brazilian man’s dream and it has become my dream as well. 😊👊 We are going to take over the USA market.
Anyone using Autoboat with Kinn Kote Endura C2 55 lbs thrust with a battery meter? Someone told me this model with battery meter won’t work on Autoboat but I looked at their compatible model Newport NV trolling motor and this Newport NV model all come with battery meter. I am confused and wonder why the trolling motor with battery meter not compatible with Autoboat but the Newport NV series trolling motor all comes with battery meter Please advise !
Biggest thing is to make sure the motor doesn’t have a “digital variable speed controller). If the motor has a basic 5 speed manual tiller and not the variable tiller it should work effortlessly. For Minn Kota motors like Endura Max you have a digital speed controller in the head unit which needs to be bypassed in order to work with AutoBoat. As far as I know Endura C2 motors are not digital and are 5 speed. Basically AutoBoat is a digital speed controller and it needs full access to the motor. AutoBoat can not run correctly if it is delivering power through a motor head that has a digital/variable speed controller inside. We have customers with Endura Max units that bypassed digital speed control in motor head and use AutoBoat.
The new system is AutoBoat smart head. It folds up and is more streamlined. It is the lightest and most sleek gps motor system on the market. It also is the only gps motor I know that has anchor jog without need for separate heading sensor. I haven’t edited this video yet. However here is link to raw file of me testing the AutoBoat smart head on my skiff. drive.google.com/file/d/1WHssUAAUp3SuZ_P7smJE0g1QUFK7O1QG/view?usp=drivesdk
AutoBoat Stern mount will mean you can’t use route follow modes or Navpoint heading mode. It will still do anchor mode and remote steering when mounted on stern. All GPS trolling motors are this way…not just AutoBoat. However, AutoBoat is cool because it has stern mount mode setting which flips controls so it doesn’t have inverted steering. AutoBoat can do things other GPS motors can’t.
I built a basic electric steering unit for my trolling motor with 3D printed gears, just a gearmotor with feedback pot, and an Arduino to control steering. Didn't have all the neat features of this unit though.
Definitely has changed the way I rig my kayaks. Every kayak I have is rigged with this motor system in mind. The app updates recently have been awesome.
One AutoBoat system per motor. Each AutoBoat unit supports up to 55lb thrust. Can’t recall any situation where I would put two GPS motors on one vessel. Eventually AutoBoat can evaluate releases of 24v and 36v systems for ultra large boats. I’ve been running 45lb thrust Riptide with AutoBoat most days in the gulf and it did pretty great job in strong tide channels. I ran it on a 14ft boat.
Please show how to mount the Autoboat System in the Hobie Mirage Drive. I'm having some challenges clamping down the "motorized collar" onto the shaft. It looks like I'm going to need a custom-made bracket. Thanks.
Motorized collar fits shaft no problem if you bought a listed compatible motor. If you bought an unlisted motor like Watersnake ASP T24 then you would need to DIY a lot more to make it work. I'm looking into building something for Hobie. Still brainstorming a few ideas. I built some prototypes.
@@KayakDIYI successfully mounted autoboat to a t24 by disassembling the watersnake bracket, flipping it upside down, and 3d printing a mount that uses the two existing bolt holes already on the kayak.
Nice!! Yes, peddle drive video please :). I also wonder if something like this would work in Bote’s newer Rackham inflatable paddleboards with the peddle drive hole or if Bixpy’s K-1 would work better? About to choose a good iSup for fishing, bow fishing, & fun. Thanks again.
As long as the motor can fit through the pedal drive hole it likely would work. Just need to make mount. I’m planning to make mount for my Hobie Pro Angler. The motor fits in my pro angler. I just need to get the mount figured out. Should be easy.
I never use that phrase….but it definitely is fitting. Totally a game changer🔥 So easy to mount on pretty much any kayak to boat. Been tested for over 3 years! Adding new insane features to app that no other GPS motors have. All for only $649. Compared to heavier and more expensive bow mount motors this is a no brainer. I’m putting transom mounts on all my kayaks and skiffs. Companies like YakGadget are already making mounts for several paddle & pedal kayaks. Going to be awesome!
Need to have a basic 30-55lb trolling motor like the MinnKota or Newport - the motor/gear attachment is designed specifically for those shafts and the power/throttle system in those motors
I mounted a watersnake on my native slayer 10 propel. I 3D printed a mount for it. I gotta say though, the Autoboat main unit is badly designed as far as cable management. I'm struggling trying to find a way to do a clean install since A) you have wires coming from two directions B) power wires are too stiff C) the yellow and blue connector make it difficult to do an in-hull install.
they offer drop in mounts for hobie pro angler with reg troll motor for 180 perhaps 360 mount for peddles is way different? look like a foam insert that locks in hobie mount area collared aeound a NV or MK motor...ebay has had them off and on...ever seen those? might work? they work for hobie pro 180 kayaks...????
The vessel will sway a lot more in GPS anchor if there is not much wind or current. In heavy current AutoBoat points into the current and the vessel doesn’t move much at all. Hope that makes sense. That is with most GPS motors.
It cannot. In future they can look into 24v and 36v systems. Biggest thing is most of those motors have digital esc. AutoBoat cannot connect to motors with digital esc….the motors internal digital esc would need to be bypassed. For example AutoBoat easily attaches to Minn Kota Endura 5 speed tiller motors but the “Endura Max” motors which have digital ESC would need the ESC bypassed so AutoBoat could work. The other factor is currently AutoBoat Pro System works for up to 12v 55lb thrust. The motorized AutoBoat geared collar also only fits certain shaft diameters and it secures via the factory motor steering lock. Full compatibility is found on link in video description. You can use discount code: KayakDIY
Today I tried out the autoboat and what a amazing invention and I love it so much and I have already told all my kayak club members this is a great product. Can you tell me how to save fishing spot? I tried but no icon to press to save. Also how to plot a route on the map and let the autoboat follow my custom track ? Thanks in advance!
@@bill_y4762 need motor with correct diameter shaft. Also the factory steering lock is how the AutoBoat attaches. So that steering lock needs to be in correct location. The new AutoBoat smart head is bit more versatile. It also has more features. Best part is it eliminates the box system and everything is built into a motor head. You swap head on your motor and done. It will have wireless firmware update capabilities, anchor jog, nicer colored screen remote option, and more. Lots of people buying but they forget to use promo code to save money. *Discount code KAYAKDIY* saves viewers some money. tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
@@KayakDIY Seems like any adapter added the the motor shaft would work (assuming the shaft isn’t too large). So if the new system is just dropping onto the shaft and replacing the entire head wouldn’t it be the same issue? As long as the shaft diameter is the same you would be fine?
@@bill_y4762 yeah the limiting factor to fitting is the position of your motor’s steering lock which is where the AutoBoat steering collar (AutoDrive) attaches to. Most trolling motors have shaft diameters similar to Minn Kota C2 Enduras/Riptides/Newport NV motors. They have a compatibility list that is slowly growing based on testing.
@@bill_y4762 the AutoDrive is clamshell and clamps around shaft. The replacement depth regulator is a gear and it also attaches to shaft. It attaches to steering lock on motor transom mount. Some motors have too skinny of shaft which causes AutoDrive Gears not to engage well. Others have too thick of shaft. Most basic affordable motors use shafts that fit AutoBoat that is why they chose to bring that size to market. In Brazil there are more AutoDrive size options. In USA we only sell options for motors like Minn Kota Enduras/Riptide/& Newport NV series. Some people have made adapters for attaching AutoDrive. DIY at own risk.
No, it will not fit the 86lb. Currently limited to 55lb thrust. *This is the link to the NEWEST Autboat Smart Head System:* tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
Yes. The AutoBoat depth collar adjusts height (draft). You can still tilt motor up and down as well. FULL GUIDE: th-cam.com/video/fBlg_ilG0uc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=W-GViMKFgDlMeGof
NO - if you enable stern mount mode you really only can use anchor mode and your normal steering and speed controls. You will NOT have features like route follow or Navpoint heading. If you mount motor on stern and enable stern mount mode you are getting benefit of the system flipping the left and right controls so they aren’t inverted. This makes steering more intuitive. This is a feature unique to AutoBoat that we wanted incorporated. I repeat you do not have other features working in stern mount…only steering and anchor mode. In anchor mode via the stern it will be holding your position but you will be facing backwards in the current. Hope this makes sense. That is how all GPS motors would operate unless they have a 2nd heading sensor mounted in the bow (expensive). **Only way that it would be possible to keep all features and mount on stern would be if we had an additional heading gps sensor mounted on the bow.
We know it can on some motors. However, at this moment for ease of customer install we recommend installing per owner manual. 😉 NOTE: If you install GPS in motor head or in wrong location it can possibly cause GPS electro-magnetic interference. For best “consistent”results we recommend installing per owners manual. This has resulted in best consistent performance. The latest GPS puck has been refined to be even better than we have in my video. It has better “no tool” mount and is more robust. AutoBoat has spent years looking for flaws and redesigning before introducing in the U.S. They have thousands of AutoBoats in service for the past 3yrs in their home country of Brazil. This has allowed us to have a lot of confidence in the product and to work out kinks. The app is always going to be free and will allow for new features and further performance improvements overtime.
Just installed my Auto boat and tried out some function like calibration but my trolling motor did not turn 360 degrees and the anchor lock not working. Does the auto boat need gps connect in order for this functions work? I tried it inside my house and maybe no gps signal therefore some function like calibration and anchor lock not working. Please advise !
You need to do GPS calibration and operation outside in open air environment. Ideally on water. AutoBoat won’t allow calibration with a poor signal and it does this for safety reasons. The system relies on an accurate initial calibration to perform at its best…this means a strong gps signal is needed….thus indoor calibration is not recommended. “Without calibration” anchor lock and other gps features don’t work. After calibration is successful and beeps 3 times then anchor modes and other gps features will be activated. Also you can recalibrate as often as you want. No issues. If you ever have questions message me on Instagram or FB. I can link up with you on video chat and talk you through it. I became a co-owner in AutoBoat. I’m trying to help the company grow in the kayaking world and not just the bass boat/powerboat world. We are the only GPS motor company with smart settings that can be activated specifically for kayaks. Our app is 100% free too.
Just saw this, looks great. A couple of questions come to mind. How does the speed control work? It mentions PWM in the ad but it has 10 speeds? Would the steering and GPS work if a PWM has already been installed? Also, is it the diameter of the shaft that determines which motors are compatible?
Which model? The ASP T24 and T18 have smaller shaft diameter, but aside from that they technically could be somehow fitted and adapted to motor. The biggest thing is the AutoDrive (steering motor) won’t bolt onto the T24/T18 without some diy mods. So diy at own risk. It fits Minn Kota and Newport motors best. Full compatibility list is on TBNation website. Use discount code KayakDIY for savings.
They work on tiller style motors. They don’t work on bow mount style because those typically have their own steering motor. AutoBoat has its own steering motor called autodrive which turns the shaft. The new AutoBoat smart head system replaces the factory motor head (no more AutoBoat box). It is super clean setup. You can mount AutoBoat converted tiller motor on bow and use it as a bow mount. In fact, that is preferred. AutoBoat works best on motors mounted to bow of boat. Basically AutoBoat Smart Head converts basic tiller transom style motors. Examples and compatibility list can be found at link in video description. Use discount code to save 5%.
@@officialWWM could maybe sell your bow mount and have enough to buy new compatible tiller. In 2025 we should have full ready to go gps motors available in USA. They will be the lowest priced gps motors and yet feature rich like $$$$ brands. The new smart head system releasing in November has 3 remote options so far but we are adding a 4th one which is a surprise.
I purchased the kit and can't wait to get on the water with it. My trolling motor is stern mounted. Have you seen setups that allow you to easily raise/lower the motor to avoid obstacles?
I believe TinyBoatNation channel did a uphaul downhaul pull cord system. As discussed stern mounting nearly all brands of GPS motors will result in not have capability to use Navpoint heading modes or map route follow modes. Essentially it would try to pull kayak backwards if you engage those modes. However, other functions like anchor mode and steering can still work well. I know a few guys are adding them on the back of their jetski for fishing. I’ve found a few compact transom mounts (on Amazon) I’m playing with installing on the bows of some of my kayaks. Then I can quickly drop AutoBoat onto whatever kayak I want to use for the day. Being that it is lighter and easier to mount I’m pretty stoked.
Thanks. Worked hard to get it available to viewers here in the U.S. In case some are hesitant about a “new product”. We had thousands of AutoBoat units in service for 3+ years in Brazil which has a huge fishing tourism economy along the Amazon river. Major anglers travel to Brazil to fish for monster fish on the Amazon river. This is just the first time getting the product to the USA. We made some hardware advancements and feature improvements to it since the first generation units. We intentionally looked hard for failure points. We wanted to make this fit the widest array of possible motors with the least effort in installation. Install is tool-less and can be done in about 3 mins. You calibrate for your area once for your area and rarely need to calibrate again. Calibration is easy with push and hold of “N” button on remote or via app. The AutoBoat system tries to hold tighter to anchor point than many other motors. There are great videos on it that our Brazilian brothers have done. They had bouys they tried to stay close to with anchor mode and you can see other brands holding a larger distance from bouy and AutoBoat holding a tighter “closer” distance. The app is always going to be free and customers may get new features added in months ahead. I know of one new feature in the works which will blow people’s minds.
That being said I'm still getting one hahah Would it work when I'm way out to sea far from land? And would it fit my Striker 90 lbs trolling motor? Like it would fit most any trolling motor of that size
Not likely. It was designed to work with the most affordable basic 5 speed (non-variable/digital) 30-55lb thrust motors. Company is working on additional models for larger motors. Many people wonder how the GPS compares for accuracy and features. We actually found it to be a stronger GPS and motor accurate than Xi3. As of recently we also would be able to say it has more GPS smart features than other brand GPS motors like ipilot/xi3. It has route follow, autopilot-backtrack, anchor mode, jog, more custom gain settings for different size boats, Navpoint heading mode, and a really unique feature I can’t disclose yet. The GEN2 AutoBoat ships in September….it is more durable, more compact, and has more capabilities for future free upgrades/feature updates.
Watersnake t24 has 1” diameter shaft. The AutoBoat system is for 1-1/8” to I believe around 1-1/4”. That is really the only limiting factor. If there was enough demand we could bring the 1” shaft version to USA. The larger shaft version currently in the USA fits the most motors so that is why it was brought to USA. They are currently made in Brazil, but we are ramping up manufacturing in Georgia soon. I’m joining the AutoBoat USA team as a co-owner. I believe in the creator, Eduardo Mata, and his engineering team. We are gonna build great things for American Anglers over the next few years. ❤️ I will still film competition and other motor brands when opportunities arise. I will try to maintain as limited bias as possible and during those periods express my bias or disconnect myself from AutoBoat to give as fair review as possible. I usually try to let the product to the talking and show the viewer the performance. So in many regards my opinions are not even voiced.
Thank you for the info. Watersnake t24 has small drive profile and can easily fit through the Hobie's drive hole (some other kayak brands also use the same drive). Other brands of trolling motors are too large. I think the idea of having spot lock in the center of kayak versus bow mounted one is much better for the rough water conditions. It will be Hobie 360 drive and Old Town Auto Pilot in the same package. If this drive will be used only for the spot lock, with 20 Ah lithium battery placed inside head of the motor, it will be possible to build 'wireless' device. But if difference only in the shaft diameter - some simple adapter will work too.@@KayakDIY
Some of the trolling motor mount beside of the seat of the kayak. Do you think it will work too? I did not mount my trolling motor in the front or at the back and I just mount it beside my seat. Is it still ok?
Definitely better if mounted in bow, pedal drive, or stern (stern mounting/behind seat will have limited GPS features). All GPS motors do better with pulling kayak instead of pushing. When any brand GPS motor is behind you it is pushing the kayak and it doesn’t know where the bow is or how long the kayak is so heading mode doesn’t work.
Short answer is no. Multiple reason. Likely different shaft diameters, voltage is too high, thrust is too high, and likely has different mounting requirements than what the trolling motor has. Most large motors like that have digital maximizers (esc) which need to be bypassed to work with AutoBoat. For example the 12v Endura Max needs esc bypassed to work with AutoBoat but the basic 5 speed tiller Minn Kota Endura motor fits easily with no modifications.
Used “Ketch PA12 mount” and attached “Newport Motor Mount” to it by drilling and tapping holes in the aluminum Ketch Mount. Message me on Instagram @kayakdiy and I will send you pics/vids of the mount setup.
Thanks for the quick response. I will send a message soon. Ive been binging your videos and @TinyBoatNation for hours and just planning in my head how I would mount mine with a one objective mount and newport transom mount.@@KayakDIY
It is advisable with ANY sonars and ANY motors to run them on separate batteries. That is best practice to limit issues. Although I have had “less” sonar interference issues with single LiFePO4 batteries running motor and sonar. Sonar graph won’t require a very large battery. Cost won’t be much.
Have a few people working on that project with me. We know it is easily possible. We just want to make it easy for everyone to do. For other brand kayaks YakGadget makes pod mounts for motors which make it easy to add AutoBoat trolling motor.
I want to buy one but I am concerned with the electronics durability. With $650 price tag and a one year warranty it makes me nervous to pull the trigger. I would like to see a longevity update on these units.
I’ve had mine for over a year. I was first person in USA to have one. I helped the company get distribution in the USA. The product was already popular in South America for last 3-4years. The electronics inside box are coated with water barrier. Box can handle heavy splashing but is not designed for submersion. It “maybe” could handle short term submersion. Remote is rated waterproof and will be relatively inexpensive to replace if needed. Other components are made of very strong glass filled polymer. AutoBoat is way more reliable than my buddies $3000 Rhodan gps trolling motor which keeps getting fried by rain water.
No. I didn’t notice anchor mode holding better in stern vs mid hull mount. I like mid hull pedal drive mount because Navpoint heading mode works. In stern mount Navpoint heading mode won’t work for any brand of gps trolling motor including AutoBoat. The biggest factor for perceived performance of anchor mode is current or wind. The more current or wind the less the kayak/boat swings around. The AutoBoat GPS motor points into wind/current when it is higher and you get virtually no swinging around movement. Basically anchor mode in super calm waters with low wind will result in more boat swing and no clear pointing of motor since their is no clear environmental factor pushing it off course in a particular direction. This results in user perception of motor struggling to hold position, but really it isn’t. All GPS motors act the same in this manner. However, for people unfamiliar with GPS motors I thought I would mention. I’ve ran anchor mode for hours in a noticeable outgoing tide canal with almost no movement off course. Love this system.
I got video somewhere posted. Can’t remember if it is on here or not. Might be on FB or IG. If I don’t have it on TH-cam I will upload. I put a bow mount for AutoBoat on the Pa12. Works even better. I used ketch mount and attached a transom mount to that.
Anything watercraft designed for a clamp on transom style trolling motor should be seamless and easy. It is simply a trolling motor with AutoBoat adapter kit attached. I just put one on my inflatable pedal kayak. It performed great and held me anchored even in 19-31mph winds. I had used a Minn Kota riptide 45 with AutoBoat. Although if you aren’t in saltwater much a basic C2 Endura 30 would be cheap and likely plenty of power.
Wait would it work on a Striker 90lbs thrust motor from Edisons? It looks pretty similar. And would it work without network connection like way out in the ocean?
30-55lb thrust motors. Beyond 55lb thrust and it doesn’t work well. They will eventually make one for larger motors. I’ve never had connection issues. In fact I feel this AutoBoat GPS is stronger than Xi3’s GPS.
@@KayakDIY doesn't work well? I'm pretty needy for a gps auto pilot for my setup I wish there could be a solution. It just manually turns the shaft of the motor, so the brand doesn't matter does it? Sucks because I can't find any other products that do what this can
The Watersnake Geo Is like $1700+ everywhere on google. AutoBoat is $649. That isn’t a little extra…that is a lot extra. Plus I prefer AutoBoat features and it’s size/weight.
@@KayakDIY autoboat in Australia would be $1000aud add a average motor for $300aud. Geospot 65lb $1699aud. $399aud diference in price for an off the shelf unit. Thats a$257usd price difference.
So did spot lock hold you in a good position to fish or was it turning you in all kinds of crazy directions? While it was on the stern. Just asking because that’s what it looked like.
“Any” brand gps motor will turn you all around crazy “IF” there isn’t much current or wind. “IF” there is a lot of environmental factors moving you off course of your anchor point the gps motor actually does better at holding you tight to position and there is less vessel swaying. The GPS motor will point into the environmental forces and there will be less vessel swaying. Low wind low current equals more vessel swaying. AutoBoat reacts to the environment. What I can say confidently is AutoBoat’s GPS system is about as accurate as you can get in the marine world. It seems to hold tighter than other brands tested. AutoBoat has new features not mentioned in this video: waypoint stringing for route follow modes, Navpoint heading jog modes, custom gain settings, stern mount mode feature, and more.
@@KayakDIY in your opinion, does a bow mounted spot lock trolling motor, work better at holding you in a decent position, or is it relatively the same as a stern mounted? I like the stern mounted position because it seems like you have more room, but don’t want the spot lock feature to be useless ya know.
You just need to have it essentially opened to speed 5 “full power”. So you should likely be able to do that without motor head. I don’t see why you won’t be able to.
My LiTime 100ah Mini battery lasts me typically two days of fishing or more. It is worth every penny. The battery only weighs 19lbs and is super compact. It holds a charge when not in use unlike leaf acids I have owned. I’m out all day when I go fishing (8hrs+). The motor isn’t always running full power. Sometimes I’m running anchor mode. Sometimes I’m using route follow mode at low speed to fish mangrove coastal line. I would say I can get 2-3 days of use before recharging. www.litime.com/products/litime-12v-100ah-mini-lifepo4-lithium-battery-upgraded-100a-bms-max-1280wh-energy?ref=k8l6rYjiXC_Dlb
ok I've been looking for this device for over a year now. I have watersnake TS24 and really want to have "anchor mode" I'm willing to buy a compatible trolling motor if the Watersnake wont work but my concern is this: I need to stern mount it and I noticed that when you used the anchor mode with the trolling motor in the stern, the boat seemed to overcompensate the direction and swung the boat back and forth. Do you think having a trolling motor with a very low speed setting would help or is this just what happens when its stern mounted? I fish heavy currents in deep water so I'm worried it's just going to swing me around like a bad dream.
When the current is bit stronger the motor detects and points into the current. When it is more calm the motor might swing a bit more. When outgoing tide or decent wind is out I found it swings side to side less and rather points into the wind or current. If mounted on the stern it would be pulling you backwards against the wind or current. Hope that makes some sense. I will try to get more anchor mode footage soon. At moment I’m with my wife who is battling in the hospital with pretty substantial illness. I’m recently co-owner in AutoBoat since I fell in love with the product. I’m still monitoring messages from hospital and my team (TBNation) are also fielding questions. The AutoBoat pre-ordered units won’t ship till mid-September. As for the T24 it won’t fit without some customization on your part. The AutoBoat motor collar requires that the motor has a factory steering lock in correct position to secure to. Not sure if you were able to see that. I am planning on modifying the T24 motor with AutoBoat and mounting it inside a Hobie pedal drive. I know it can be done, but it won’t be a 3min install like AutoBoat is with compatible motors.
Also keep in mind the swinging you saw was with footage I believe sped up. So it looked more erratic. I believe I put note in the video that said footage was sped up like 4x or something. Footage was almost like a Timelapse so it looked like kayak jumped around.
@@KayakDIYfirst of all I hope your wife fully recovers 🙏 and thank you for getting back to me. I really think your onto something man, and really think if you can get this device out there and the bugs are worked out it could be a great success, I wish you the best. Ok thanks for letting me know about the sped up part of the video. I gotcha about it pulling you into the wind or against the current but that would be ideal bc then your line would scope out forward from you when you anchor in the current. Again thanks for your response, I'm going to do some research on what motor to get, I want something with low thrust actually so that i dont need such a large battery
*NEW SYSTEM AutoBoat GPS Smart Head (cleaner setup & more features. Nov 2024 release)*
tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
*OLD SYSTEM SHOWN - AutoBoat GPS Trolling Motor Adapter Upgrade With Anchor Mode & More!*
tbnation.net/products/autoboat-com-gps-marinizado-ancora?ref=LiteSkiff
*100ah Mini LiPO4 12V Battery:* www.litime.com/products/litime-12v-100ah-mini-lifepo4-lithium-battery-upgraded-100a-bms-max-1280wh-energy?ref=k8l6rYjiXC_Dlb
I need this! Thanks so much!
Wow! Didn’t know this existed. Almost bought an Xi3 but this will work better. Was going to be a challenge mounting xi3, plus 2x the price, also my father-in-law has old Minn Kota Riptide sitting in garage that works great which he said I could have! Booyah! Looks like should ship mid September.
@@teachitandlearnit that is awesome. The Riptide is the motor I’m currently using for when I fish saltwater. If you end up in SW Florida let’s go fishing together! ❤️
What trolling motor mount is that
I'm with @@Banogonoski, are you using the NyVoozy Transom Trolling Motor Mount?
DANG! $100 MOTOR WITH A $700 ADAPTER? SHEESH!
A lot cheaper than other GPS motor solutions for kayaks and it works better. Way easier to mount, lighter weight, and I like the controls/app features better. Old Town AutoPilot is nearly $5000! Many other GPS motors will be $1300+ and harder to mount. This setup you can actually mid-hull mount in pods or pedal drive areas. The new route follow modes are totally sick. Big fan of this company….so much so I’m putting my money where my mouth is and becoming a co-owner for U.S. We will build up manufacturing in Georgia. You can get 5% off order by using discount code KayakDIY at TBNation.net
We have been working hard to decrease pricing further, but it isn’t really necessary. AutoBoat has been selling very well at current pricing. AutoBoat’s mission is to bring the latest Marine Fishing technology to the masses. However, we will not please everyone with pricing. Some people have the idea that it is somehow inferior to other GPS motors just because it is new to the U.S territory. In fact it actually has more features and higher accuracy in tests. It has been used for past 3yrs in South America by professional famous anglers (example: Jonny Hoffman) on Amazon River. The AutoBoat pricing is nearly half of what most other GPS motors are. AutoBoat is more versatile to mount, modular design allows easy motor upgrade and customer repair should anything become damaged. If anything is to fail it would likely be the trolling motor and not AutoBoat. AutoBoat is built pretty robust. The whole system is tool-less design and installs in 2-3 minutes.
We also have kayak mount manufacturers on board who have already designed motor mounts perfect for AutoBoat. YakGadget has tons of motor mounts.
Compared to XI3 I'll take this XI3 does none of this
I'm a software engineer. I've been contemplating building my own, which wouldn't be that hard technically, but there is a lot of time you would have to spend testing and retesting and so on. I think I could build the motor controller, with remote for about $150, Steering mechanism with a stepping motor and that cute little collar thing that goes on the shaft, and Add the GPS for about $25 - $50, have to 3-D print a few parts, might take 5 or 6 prints to get it just right. So, let's say, all in maybe $400. Plus, about 20-100 hours of my otherwise limited time. Then me trying to remember enough calculus to do the math... Doable. But, I give myself a value of $25/hr (which is WAY below my standard going rate), then I will be adding from $500 - $2500 to the build. At that, I consider $700 to be a bargain. I hope they sell 10,000 of these.
@@richardhasting6046 I'm a software engineer with an electronic engineering degree too, considering the time and testing, I'd rather just spend the money and be on the water ASAP. The parts aren't the issue, it would be the research time and the manufacturing. I 100% that this is a great idea and if a popular fishing related company built this, it wouldn't be just $700, add $1000 to the price if Minn Kota did this, but they won't do it because it cuts into their version for spot loc.
These toys are not for the average joe kayak fisherman, just like $5k kayaks. It is next level kayak fishing. The best part of this is that it features can easily be added. I expect, some knock offs, but Autoboat is the name that most know by now, and the future looks great for them!
Anyone ever put this on a bass boat?
You just killed the kayak game man! This is sick!
Thanks. Preorders won’t ship until mid September. Got some cool features being added. Also the entire video was filmed with gen1 unit and gen2 is built even better with more capabilities and durability in mind. Gen 1 design was used for about 3yrs in South America by thousands of anglers. Gen 2 takes all those 3yrs of angler suggestions and design improvements. Gen 2 units will be shipped in pre-orders.
Thanks for visiting my channel. I've tweaked a bit more on my setup since that video and it's working hassle free right now in the pedal slot. Ill have another video soon.
Happy AutoBoat is working for your kayak.
😊👊
Wow 😮 no way! I was just looking for options like this. I have wanted a remote control motor setup for my Hobie Tandem Island. Nice if I want to lay on tramps and wind stops. Total game changer! 👏
For $650 it better change some kind of game
@@MrTerickg go price a Minn Kota spot lock or Garmin Force trolling motor, this is a game changer.
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Game Changer for entry level trolling motors!
Im so glad I caught this video. I have been debating myself for weeks what trolling motor I want and how much to spend. This thing solved all those issues I had with getting a basic now, with the intention of upgrading depending on how I use it. Thanks so much.
Well I've definitely found my next yak upgrade, I have an old town sportsman 120 with a 55lb thrust motor built into the fish finder hole, I never thought of this existing but it's a good idea. 👍
You just created a good problem for me! I was just about to pull the trigger on a XI3! 😊
AutoBoat has loads of app features releasing soon. One feature is gonna make creating routes so freaking easy. Basically waypoint stringing. Also some features I can’t discuss yet. Pretty stoked how this company is dialed in to the needs of not just boat owners, but kayak anglers. AutoBoat has worked with me and several other kayak anglers to improve the user experience for users of all types of watercraft.
super cool technology! love the versatility and the anchor mode is a very useful feature!
I have been kayaking for over 10 years. It's a wonderful thing when there is no wind and waves!
As someone who personally tested this, I'll never look at an xi3 ever again!
What makes you more likely to go with this over an XI3? Cost savings between the autoboat adapter and a transom mount trolling motor is marginal, depending on the trolling motor you get.
I just got mines from tinyboatnation thanks brother gonna take it out this week really excited 😊
That figures. After I go through the effort to DIY my own, someone makes a kit. LOL neat stuff.
*IF MOUNTING ON THE STERN OF YOUR KAYAK BOAT* then you lose navpoint heading function & route follow modes.
*IF MOUNTING ON THE BOW OR MIDDLE OF KAYAK/BOAT* then you can use all functions.
That stupid
Definitely a game changer. Only reason I didn’t pull the trigger is because gps only works on bow mount and I am set up stern mount. Only feature I am able to use is spot lock. Drive is going to work no matter what except you have to use the remote in reverse. I need all the features in a stern mount set up. Maybe in the future they will get this worked out 🤞
The AutoBoat system does have a stern mount mode which makes steering not inverted. Anchor lock works when mounted on stern. Other gps functions won’t.
AutoBoat Smart Head is the newest product. The box style Gen1 systems will be supported for warranties and parts but ultimately discontinued. We will now be selling Smart Head. Smart Head has remote firmware update capabilities which allows the system to get better and smarter over time.
What!!!!? I didn’t even know this existed!! Awesome! Total game changer for those of us that don’t have an Xi3
For the low price of $650 it could be yours! Lol just ho buy an xi3. Buying this and a cheap trolling motor will still cost more than it. Ita not worth it for this price. Even if you already have a trolling motor, just go spend the extra 75 bucks and get the quality product with proven reliability.
Update: I had a 380mm (15") Length x 25mm" ID x 29mm OD" clamshell sleeve" 3D printed up to increase the smaller 1" diameter shaft trolling motors. In this case, I'm using the Watersnake 34lb Venom. I ended up only using 9" of the sleeve to accommodate the Autoboat collar/motor and the GPS adapter by roughing up the powder coat on the trolling motor shaft with a file, brushed on super glue on both surfaces, then attached the sleeve. Below the Autoboat collar/motor is still the original 1" shaft where my T-mount attaches to. So far, everything is SOLID out on the water.
Minkota has had I-pilot for many years but this is awesome if you already have a small trolling motor. I upgraded to the ulterra 80 pound thrust. this thing is an absolute beast. When on anchor mode it will hold my boat in a ton of wind.
AutoBoat had been around and sold thousands of units in South America. They are just new to USA. They will be based in Oxford Georgia. I personally think the AutoBoat GPS performance and features are better than Ipilot. It seems to hold tighter on anchor mode.
Just got mine mocked up in the front "T-bar" pedal drive mount on my BKC PK14 tandem. I use the pedal drive in the rear slot, and lift/lower the Autoboat via a 3:1 "Z"pulley system at the rear seat.
Cant wait for mines to come in. Need an indepth review on the spotlock!
Tell me what and how you would like me to best show the GPS anchor mode to you. BTW I can’t use term “spot lock” since that is technically trademarked. We are just calling it anchor mode for now. 😉
I’m open to suggestions. Want to make the best possible reviews and content for viewers.
The best way to show anchor mode is to hit anchor mode close to a dock or stump, something that is fixed, where we can see the vessel isn't moving. You could do the same using a drone, to show it isn't moving. The vessel will adjust for the wind, but it shouldn't move off of the GPS point where it was engaged.
@@peterlong9629 I will work at getting that footage. My wife is back in hospital. I will be taking TH-cam break for few days to be with her. TinyBoatNation channel also has one of the AutoBoat units and we are working together to bring the units to America. AutoBoat has been serving South America for 3yr+ with thousands of units in hands of fisherman. They have a video in Portuguese that shows anchor mode holding tight to a bouy market. I think it compared AutoBoat to another brand of GPS motors. I will say the GPS seems more accurate than others and the system tries to hold a much tighter proximity to it’s mark.
AWESOME. Game changer for many. I hope they can keep up with demand!
Great video thank you! I want a change to the kayak industry standard of spending 2500$ just to troll/anchor. This makes it possible to get into action at less than ~1k
I got more videos coming. I just rigged AutoBoat up on the bow of my Hobie PA. Plan to work with YakGadget to get more transom trolling motor mounts developed for kayaks. We specifically want a Hobie pedal drive motor mount with AutoBoat integrated. Tons of AutoBoat customers have already put AutoBoat motors in their pods on kayaks like FeelFree, Bonafide, and more.
I love AutoBoat so much that I joined the company. I’m now a co-owner in AutoBoat USA. We are going to bring technology to the masses by making it as affordable as possible YET ultra-reliable and feature rich.
So cool. Would make a great gift for friends or family that love to kayak or small boats.
I'm a 57-year-old Glammi and raising my 5-year-old granddaughter. We love to kayak but I'm just wondering when I won't be able to paddle so far and back again 🤷 We could get around a lot quicker with this and a trolling motor. Thanks for all the info😊
@kayakdiy I seen that they added a stern mount mode on the phone app, will that help with navpoint?
I saw that as well.
*STERN MOUNT MODE:* simply flips steering so it isn’t inverted. That way when you hit left it goes left and when hitting right it goes right. Without “Stern Mount Mode” the controls would be inverted.
Navpoint and all route follow modes WILL NOT work when mounted on stern. Anchor mode WILL WORK when mounted on stern. All brands of GPS motors won’t work on stern for heading (navpoint) or route follow modes……the difference is AutoBoat at least has the stern mount mode so steering is more intuitive rather than inverted. Hope this info helps.
@@KayakDIY Thanks for the clarification!
On your Hobie angler set up I have two questions first what pound thrust motor are you using and second any downsides of using spot lock while on the stern?
Awesome. Adding this to my mod list!
Let me know if you have questions. I’m good about responding to DM ( messages) on Instagram
At 4:32 when you are talking about the downside to mounting it on the stern, you mention the feature “nav point” but don’t really explain what it’s supposed to do. Could you elaborate?
I’m considering mounting on the stern, as I’ve got my sonar in the pedal system hole, but would like to understand what I’d be missing out on. The anchoring feature is what I’d be most concerned with.
AutoBoat GPS Smart Modes
*Navpoint heading mode* is like shooting a laser straight. The gps motor will hold that heading.
*Anchor lock mode* uses motor to hold your position within a few feet of where you press the button.
*Manual route mode* string waypoints on map and follow that route
*Record route mode* record your movement as a route then return days later and follow that route.
*Navpoint Heading Jog* when using Navpoint heading you can jog left or right if there is an obstruction ahead. This is done by holding left or right and letting off when you are on heading you want to
NOTE: if mounting on stern you can use app to put into stern mount mode. This flips the left and right controls so they are intuitive and not inverted. When in stern mount you can only use steering/speed controls/ & anchor mode…..all other smart modes mentioned above don’t work. When mounted in center of kayak/boat or on bow all smart features work.
Second Note: in app you can set custom gain settings for different size vessels. This is nice because it will tone down the power for small kayak vs large boat. That way you don’t get thrown off. Many other brands don’t have this.
Third Note: the blue remote has further range than phones using app. Consider having both available in case a remote battery dies.
Fourth Note: gps calibration should be done outside ideally on the water. It takes about 5 seconds but helps with accuracy. No harm in recalibrating often, but not necessary.
Fifth note: don’t flip your motor head. This can malposition the electrical internals to be above GPS. This can lead to interference. GPS puck blue arrow must be facing direction of forward thrust when mounted. Many people get this wrong and it can cause inaccurate erratic behavior. The system is very reliable and predictable…but if you install it wrong it predictably creates erratic behavior.
We are here to help though. 😉👍
I got one a couple of weeks ago and love it. I have it on my Ascend on the front and love the Navigate button when fishing. I want to put it on my Megellan pedal kayak and it has the nuts for the motor mount in the rear. I know if you put it in the rear it wont have nav but what about instead of putting motor in #5 can you put it in reverse. Would that help out the nav.
is there a difference the one your showing and the one that says smart head.. On the site it says the smart head won't work on the bow.
What is the green kayak/boat with the small outboard?
I have a vibe shearwater 125. I want to mount this in the pod so instead of pedal drive, i can have this in the middle with spotlock!
*The new AutoBoat GPS motor adapter system eliminates the box. It is the AutoBoat SMART HEAD system.* It is exactly what you would want. You will love it. Plus you will have features that even Old Town Autopilot doesn't have. The AutoBoat Smart Head system will have anchor jog WITHOUT needing to mount additional sensor like other brands. Use code KAYAKDIY
tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
Expensive, but a fantastic idea!!
Awesome.. Just picked up a bow myself too...
Right on! You should come visit and we can do some bowfishing in the flats.
@@KayakDIY don't tempt me with a good time.
If you have it stern mounted like on your PA14, have you come up with a mechanism to trim the motor up when you come into shallow water and need to get the motor up out of the way? I have a PA14 and it would be a long reach back to try to elevate the motor from the seat and it would be a nuisance to have to get out of seat and try to safely move to the back of the Kayak to elevate the motor.
Several people have fashioned release setups for the tilt lock on popular trolling motors. Search “tethered tilt lock mod”.
Developed and manufactured in Brazil! 👏
Brazilian people are awesome. They have a rich culture in fishing. I’ve spent many hours talking with the AutoBoat creator and owner. We are constantly improving the AutoBoat product based on feedback of customers and desire to have the most feature rich GPS motor system on the market at the lowest price. I am joining AutoBoat. I believe in this Brazilian man’s dream and it has become my dream as well.
😊👊 We are going to take over the USA market.
Anyone using Autoboat with Kinn Kote Endura C2 55 lbs thrust with a battery meter?
Someone told me this model with battery meter won’t work on Autoboat but I looked at their compatible model Newport NV trolling motor and this Newport NV model all come with battery meter. I am confused and wonder why the trolling motor with battery meter not compatible with Autoboat but the Newport NV series trolling motor all comes with battery meter Please advise !
Biggest thing is to make sure the motor doesn’t have a “digital variable speed controller). If the motor has a basic 5 speed manual tiller and not the variable tiller it should work effortlessly.
For Minn Kota motors like Endura Max you have a digital speed controller in the head unit which needs to be bypassed in order to work with AutoBoat. As far as I know Endura C2 motors are not digital and are 5 speed. Basically AutoBoat is a digital speed controller and it needs full access to the motor. AutoBoat can not run correctly if it is delivering power through a motor head that has a digital/variable speed controller inside. We have customers with Endura Max units that bypassed digital speed control in motor head and use AutoBoat.
how does it hold up on a jon boat bow? Does it fold away or do you have to put it together/take it apart each time you use it?
The new system is AutoBoat smart head. It folds up and is more streamlined. It is the lightest and most sleek gps motor system on the market. It also is the only gps motor I know that has anchor jog without need for separate heading sensor. I haven’t edited this video yet. However here is link to raw file of me testing the AutoBoat smart head on my skiff. drive.google.com/file/d/1WHssUAAUp3SuZ_P7smJE0g1QUFK7O1QG/view?usp=drivesdk
Anyone tried anchor or GPS navigation mode on the stern?
This sounds great!
Can you explain the downsize of mounting on the stern with navpoint I think you said? My kayak is built for stern mounting.
AutoBoat Stern mount will mean you can’t use route follow modes or Navpoint heading mode. It will still do anchor mode and remote steering when mounted on stern. All GPS trolling motors are this way…not just AutoBoat. However, AutoBoat is cool because it has stern mount mode setting which flips controls so it doesn’t have inverted steering. AutoBoat can do things other GPS motors can’t.
be nice if it oould connect with your chartplotter.
Would there be one to work on 24v systems?I have the Newport NK180 kayak motor and would not want to buy a second motor and battery. ?
Nice! Can you take the head of the trolling motor and it still work?
I built a basic electric steering unit for my trolling motor with 3D printed gears, just a gearmotor with feedback pot, and an Arduino to control steering. Didn't have all the neat features of this unit though.
Wish I had all those skills. Damn smart. 👊
WOW! Brilliant!
Definitely has changed the way I rig my kayaks. Every kayak I have is rigged with this motor system in mind. The app updates recently have been awesome.
Could you link two trolling motors up to it. One for front and rear of the boat.. say for like bigger boats???
One AutoBoat system per motor. Each AutoBoat unit supports up to 55lb thrust. Can’t recall any situation where I would put two GPS motors on one vessel.
Eventually AutoBoat can evaluate releases of 24v and 36v systems for ultra large boats.
I’ve been running 45lb thrust Riptide with AutoBoat most days in the gulf and it did pretty great job in strong tide channels. I ran it on a 14ft boat.
Please show how to mount the Autoboat System in the Hobie Mirage Drive. I'm having some challenges clamping down the "motorized collar" onto the shaft. It looks like I'm going to need a custom-made bracket. Thanks.
Motorized collar fits shaft no problem if you bought a listed compatible motor. If you bought an unlisted motor like Watersnake ASP T24 then you would need to DIY a lot more to make it work. I'm looking into building something for Hobie. Still brainstorming a few ideas. I built some prototypes.
@@KayakDIYI successfully mounted autoboat to a t24 by disassembling the watersnake bracket, flipping it upside down, and 3d printing a mount that uses the two existing bolt holes already on the kayak.
Will it work on Minn Kota® Endura™ C2 Trolling Motor with “Battery Meter”? Or will work with MINN KOTA
Traxxis Trolling Motor ?
Nice!! Yes, peddle drive video please :). I also wonder if something like this would work in Bote’s newer Rackham inflatable paddleboards with the peddle drive hole or if Bixpy’s K-1 would work better? About to choose a good iSup for fishing, bow fishing, & fun. Thanks again.
As long as the motor can fit through the pedal drive hole it likely would work. Just need to make mount. I’m planning to make mount for my Hobie Pro Angler. The motor fits in my pro angler. I just need to get the mount figured out. Should be easy.
Made in Brazil 👏👏👏👏👏
Game changer!!
I never use that phrase….but it definitely is fitting. Totally a game changer🔥 So easy to mount on pretty much any kayak to boat. Been tested for over 3 years! Adding new insane features to app that no other GPS motors have. All for only $649. Compared to heavier and more expensive bow mount motors this is a no brainer. I’m putting transom mounts on all my kayaks and skiffs. Companies like YakGadget are already making mounts for several paddle & pedal kayaks. Going to be awesome!
Would it work with a Bixby I have a pole system like a trolly motor
Need to have a basic 30-55lb trolling motor like the MinnKota or Newport - the motor/gear attachment is designed specifically for those shafts and the power/throttle system in those motors
Is there anyway to face a specific direction while in anchor mode? Or does the kayak have to face towards the wind/current?
If motor is on front you face wind and current. If motor is on stern you face away.
great video. loved it.
Are you still able to drive that boat with the stick in emergency situations or does that system lock it uo so you can freely turn it
Would love to see a video for mounting trolling motor in the pedal drive
Working on solutions for mounting AutoBoat GPS enhanced motors in multiple kayaks.
Also hired full time video editor to help me with channel.
I mounted a watersnake on my native slayer 10 propel. I 3D printed a mount for it. I gotta say though, the Autoboat main unit is badly designed as far as cable management. I'm struggling trying to find a way to do a clean install since A) you have wires coming from two directions B) power wires are too stiff C) the yellow and blue connector make it difficult to do an in-hull install.
Definitely want to see the pedal drive conversion on a Hobie kayak!
*Definitely my next plan.* 😬👊
Have a few options and ideas for it.
Me too!!
they offer drop in mounts for hobie pro angler with reg troll motor for 180 perhaps 360 mount for peddles is way different? look like a foam insert that locks in hobie mount area collared aeound a NV or MK motor...ebay has had them off and on...ever seen those? might work? they work for hobie pro 180 kayaks...????
I’m waiting to see the pedal drive conversion
I'm doing the pedal drive conversion for my slayer 10. Hate that damn propel drive.
How well does the spot lock work in the rear ? Does the front always move like that
The vessel will sway a lot more in GPS anchor if there is not much wind or current. In heavy current AutoBoat points into the current and the vessel doesn’t move much at all. Hope that makes sense. That is with most GPS motors.
@@KayakDIYyea but does having it on the back make the front move more? I’m debating on pod mount vs rear mount
Any chance this can be fitted to the Minnkota transom 36 V 112 pounds thrust trolling motor? If not, any ideas on how to modify it?
It cannot. In future they can look into 24v and 36v systems. Biggest thing is most of those motors have digital esc. AutoBoat cannot connect to motors with digital esc….the motors internal digital esc would need to be bypassed. For example AutoBoat easily attaches to Minn Kota Endura 5 speed tiller motors but the “Endura Max” motors which have digital ESC would need the ESC bypassed so AutoBoat could work. The other factor is currently AutoBoat Pro System works for up to 12v 55lb thrust. The motorized AutoBoat geared collar also only fits certain shaft diameters and it secures via the factory motor steering lock. Full compatibility is found on link in video description. You can use discount code: KayakDIY
Today I tried out the autoboat and what a amazing invention and I love it so much and I have already told all my kayak club members this is a great product.
Can you tell me how to save fishing spot? I tried but no icon to press to save. Also how to plot a route on the map and let the autoboat follow my custom track ?
Thanks in advance!
Message KayakDIY on Instagram or facebook. I can send you screen recordings of the app and explain. 😊👊
Thanks so much for your prompt reply and yes please 🙏
Why would this not just mount on any trolling motor if all it is doing is connecting to the motor shaft?
@@bill_y4762 need motor with correct diameter shaft. Also the factory steering lock is how the AutoBoat attaches. So that steering lock needs to be in correct location.
The new AutoBoat smart head is bit more versatile. It also has more features. Best part is it eliminates the box system and everything is built into a motor head. You swap head on your motor and done. It will have wireless firmware update capabilities, anchor jog, nicer colored screen remote option, and more.
Lots of people buying but they forget to use promo code to save money. *Discount code KAYAKDIY* saves viewers some money.
tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
@@KayakDIY Seems like any adapter added the the motor shaft would work (assuming the shaft isn’t too large).
So if the new system is just dropping onto the shaft and replacing the entire head wouldn’t it be the same issue? As long as the shaft diameter is the same you would be fine?
@@bill_y4762 yeah the limiting factor to fitting is the position of your motor’s steering lock which is where the AutoBoat steering collar (AutoDrive) attaches to. Most trolling motors have shaft diameters similar to Minn Kota C2 Enduras/Riptides/Newport NV motors. They have a compatibility list that is slowly growing based on testing.
@@bill_y4762 the AutoDrive is clamshell and clamps around shaft. The replacement depth regulator is a gear and it also attaches to shaft. It attaches to steering lock on motor transom mount. Some motors have too skinny of shaft which causes AutoDrive Gears not to engage well. Others have too thick of shaft. Most basic affordable motors use shafts that fit AutoBoat that is why they chose to bring that size to market. In Brazil there are more AutoDrive size options. In USA we only sell options for motors like Minn Kota Enduras/Riptide/& Newport NV series. Some people have made adapters for attaching AutoDrive. DIY at own risk.
Does anyone know if this will fit the newport 86lb thrust motor??
No, it will not fit the 86lb. Currently limited to 55lb thrust.
*This is the link to the NEWEST Autboat Smart Head System:* tbnation.net/products/autoboat-gps-trolling-motor-anchor-system?ref=LiteSkiff
After install the autoboat, will the trolling motor still be able to adjust height up and down and tilt?
Yes. The AutoBoat depth collar adjusts height (draft). You can still tilt motor up and down as well. FULL GUIDE: th-cam.com/video/fBlg_ilG0uc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=W-GViMKFgDlMeGof
Does it auto navigate to a location you choose on the map?
Inside the phone app there is auto navigation and GPS waypoint functionality
I love it! Great job.
Thanks. Pretty stoked about the possibilities of this system and future boat builds. I can now add GPS remote propulsion where I previously couldn’t.
There is a Stern Mount Mode in my autoboat app. If I enable the Stern Mount Mode, will all features will work ?
Thanks!
NO - if you enable stern mount mode you really only can use anchor mode and your normal steering and speed controls. You will NOT have features like route follow or Navpoint heading. If you mount motor on stern and enable stern mount mode you are getting benefit of the system flipping the left and right controls so they aren’t inverted. This makes steering more intuitive. This is a feature unique to AutoBoat that we wanted incorporated. I repeat you do not have other features working in stern mount…only steering and anchor mode. In anchor mode via the stern it will be holding your position but you will be facing backwards in the current. Hope this makes sense. That is how all GPS motors would operate unless they have a 2nd heading sensor mounted in the bow (expensive).
**Only way that it would be possible to keep all features and mount on stern would be if we had an additional heading gps sensor mounted on the bow.
Were can I buy this
Why can't you turn gps towards front of boat if it's on the stern?
hmmm i wonder if the gps puck can be mounted in the head of the TM?
We know it can on some motors. However, at this moment for ease of customer install we recommend installing per owner manual. 😉
NOTE: If you install GPS in motor head or in wrong location it can possibly cause GPS electro-magnetic interference. For best “consistent”results we recommend installing per owners manual. This has resulted in best consistent performance. The latest GPS puck has been refined to be even better than we have in my video. It has better “no tool” mount and is more robust. AutoBoat has spent years looking for flaws and redesigning before introducing in the U.S. They have thousands of AutoBoats in service for the past 3yrs in their home country of Brazil. This has allowed us to have a lot of confidence in the product and to work out kinks. The app is always going to be free and will allow for new features and further performance improvements overtime.
Just installed my Auto boat and tried out some function like calibration but my trolling motor did not turn 360 degrees and the anchor lock not working. Does the auto boat need gps connect in order for this functions work? I tried it inside my house and maybe no gps signal therefore some function like calibration and anchor lock not working. Please advise !
You need to do GPS calibration and operation outside in open air environment. Ideally on water. AutoBoat won’t allow calibration with a poor signal and it does this for safety reasons. The system relies on an accurate initial calibration to perform at its best…this means a strong gps signal is needed….thus indoor calibration is not recommended. “Without calibration” anchor lock and other gps features don’t work. After calibration is successful and beeps 3 times then anchor modes and other gps features will be activated. Also you can recalibrate as often as you want. No issues.
If you ever have questions message me on Instagram or FB. I can link up with you on video chat and talk you through it.
I became a co-owner in AutoBoat. I’m trying to help the company grow in the kayaking world and not just the bass boat/powerboat world. We are the only GPS motor company with smart settings that can be activated specifically for kayaks. Our app is 100% free too.
Just saw this, looks great. A couple of questions come to mind. How does the speed control work? It mentions PWM in the ad but it has 10 speeds? Would the steering and GPS work if a PWM has already been installed? Also, is it the diameter of the shaft that determines which motors are compatible?
*Full Guide Here:* th-cam.com/video/fBlg_ilG0uc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=W-GViMKFgDlMeGof
I just subscribed love your channel. Can you tell me if i can turn water snake trolling using autobaot. thanks
Which model? The ASP T24 and T18 have smaller shaft diameter, but aside from that they technically could be somehow fitted and adapted to motor. The biggest thing is the AutoDrive (steering motor) won’t bolt onto the T24/T18 without some diy mods. So diy at own risk. It fits Minn Kota and Newport motors best. Full compatibility list is on TBNation website. Use discount code KayakDIY for savings.
Will they work on a bow mount motor?
They work on tiller style motors. They don’t work on bow mount style because those typically have their own steering motor. AutoBoat has its own steering motor called autodrive which turns the shaft. The new AutoBoat smart head system replaces the factory motor head (no more AutoBoat box). It is super clean setup. You can mount AutoBoat converted tiller motor on bow and use it as a bow mount. In fact, that is preferred. AutoBoat works best on motors mounted to bow of boat.
Basically AutoBoat Smart Head converts basic tiller transom style motors. Examples and compatibility list can be found at link in video description. Use discount code to save 5%.
@@KayakDIY ahh bummer. Thanks for the info. I’m looking for a way to put spot lock on my current bow mount.
@@officialWWM could maybe sell your bow mount and have enough to buy new compatible tiller. In 2025 we should have full ready to go gps motors available in USA. They will be the lowest priced gps motors and yet feature rich like $$$$ brands. The new smart head system releasing in November has 3 remote options so far but we are adding a 4th one which is a surprise.
@@KayakDIY I’m in Australia, so your kit is already pretty expensive here :/ I only recently bought my bow mount, so I’m not too keen to sell it :/
I purchased the kit and can't wait to get on the water with it. My trolling motor is stern mounted. Have you seen setups that allow you to easily raise/lower the motor to avoid obstacles?
I believe TinyBoatNation channel did a uphaul downhaul pull cord system.
As discussed stern mounting nearly all brands of GPS motors will result in not have capability to use Navpoint heading modes or map route follow modes. Essentially it would try to pull kayak backwards if you engage those modes. However, other functions like anchor mode and steering can still work well. I know a few guys are adding them on the back of their jetski for fishing. I’ve found a few compact transom mounts (on Amazon) I’m playing with installing on the bows of some of my kayaks. Then I can quickly drop AutoBoat onto whatever kayak I want to use for the day. Being that it is lighter and easier to mount I’m pretty stoked.
@@KayakDIYI just purchased the Autoboat and the NV Kayak Series 55LBS TM! I’d be very interested in the bow mounting adaptation.
Also do you have to uninstall the autoboat every time or you can leave it together with the trolling motor?
I Keep AutoBoat installed on the trolling motor. I only disconnect battery occasionally for charging or swapping batteries since I have two batteries.
very cool!
Thanks. Worked hard to get it available to viewers here in the U.S. In case some are hesitant about a “new product”. We had thousands of AutoBoat units in service for 3+ years in Brazil which has a huge fishing tourism economy along the Amazon river. Major anglers travel to Brazil to fish for monster fish on the Amazon river. This is just the first time getting the product to the USA. We made some hardware advancements and feature improvements to it since the first generation units. We intentionally looked hard for failure points. We wanted to make this fit the widest array of possible motors with the least effort in installation. Install is tool-less and can be done in about 3 mins. You calibrate for your area once for your area and rarely need to calibrate again. Calibration is easy with push and hold of “N” button on remote or via app. The AutoBoat system tries to hold tighter to anchor point than many other motors. There are great videos on it that our Brazilian brothers have done. They had bouys they tried to stay close to with anchor mode and you can see other brands holding a larger distance from bouy and AutoBoat holding a tighter “closer” distance. The app is always going to be free and customers may get new features added in months ahead. I know of one new feature in the works which will blow people’s minds.
That being said I'm still getting one hahah
Would it work when I'm way out to sea far from land? And would it fit my Striker 90 lbs trolling motor? Like it would fit most any trolling motor of that size
So it wont work with a brushless 65lb haswing?
Not likely. It was designed to work with the most affordable basic 5 speed (non-variable/digital) 30-55lb thrust motors. Company is working on additional models for larger motors. Many people wonder how the GPS compares for accuracy and features. We actually found it to be a stronger GPS and motor accurate than Xi3. As of recently we also would be able to say it has more GPS smart features than other brand GPS motors like ipilot/xi3. It has route follow, autopilot-backtrack, anchor mode, jog, more custom gain settings for different size boats, Navpoint heading mode, and a really unique feature I can’t disclose yet. The GEN2 AutoBoat ships in September….it is more durable, more compact, and has more capabilities for future free upgrades/feature updates.
What kind of kayak is the lime green one?
Here it is: tbnation.net/products/rotomolded-lite-skiff-built?ref=LiteSkiff
Will it work with Watersnake 24? I'm interested to put it into pedal drive hole of Hobie PA 14.
Watersnake t24 has 1” diameter shaft.
The AutoBoat system is for 1-1/8” to I believe around 1-1/4”. That is really the only limiting factor. If there was enough demand we could bring the 1” shaft version to USA. The larger shaft version currently in the USA fits the most motors so that is why it was brought to USA. They are currently made in Brazil, but we are ramping up manufacturing in Georgia soon. I’m joining the AutoBoat USA team as a co-owner. I believe in the creator, Eduardo Mata, and his engineering team. We are gonna build great things for American Anglers over the next few years. ❤️
I will still film competition and other motor brands when opportunities arise. I will try to maintain as limited bias as possible and during those periods express my bias or disconnect myself from AutoBoat to give as fair review as possible. I usually try to let the product to the talking and show the viewer the performance. So in many regards my opinions are not even voiced.
Thank you for the info. Watersnake t24 has small drive profile and can easily fit through the Hobie's drive hole (some other kayak brands also use the same drive). Other brands of trolling motors are too large. I think the idea of having spot lock in the center of kayak versus bow mounted one is much better for the rough water conditions. It will be Hobie 360 drive and Old Town Auto Pilot in the same package. If this drive will be used only for the spot lock, with 20 Ah lithium battery placed inside head of the motor, it will be possible to build 'wireless' device. But if difference only in the shaft diameter - some simple adapter will work too.@@KayakDIY
Some of the trolling motor mount beside of the seat of the kayak. Do you think it will work too? I did not mount my trolling motor in the front or at the back and I just mount it beside my seat. Is it still ok?
Definitely better if mounted in bow, pedal drive, or stern (stern mounting/behind seat will have limited GPS features). All GPS motors do better with pulling kayak instead of pushing. When any brand GPS motor is behind you it is pushing the kayak and it doesn’t know where the bow is or how long the kayak is so heading mode doesn’t work.
@@KayakDIY can you tell me the meaning of pushing and pulling? Is it meaning the trolling motor using backwards mode to move forward?
Very cool thanks for posting this video. Can this be fitted to the Minnkota 36V transom trolling motor?
Short answer is no. Multiple reason. Likely different shaft diameters, voltage is too high, thrust is too high, and likely has different mounting requirements than what the trolling motor has. Most large motors like that have digital maximizers (esc) which need to be bypassed to work with AutoBoat. For example the 12v Endura Max needs esc bypassed to work with AutoBoat but the basic 5 speed tiller Minn Kota Endura motor fits easily with no modifications.
I wanna see the Hobie Bow mount set up.
Used “Ketch PA12 mount” and attached “Newport Motor Mount” to it by drilling and tapping holes in the aluminum Ketch Mount. Message me on Instagram @kayakdiy and I will send you pics/vids of the mount setup.
Thanks for the quick response. I will send a message soon.
Ive been binging your videos and @TinyBoatNation for hours and just planning in my head how I would mount mine with a one objective mount and newport transom mount.@@KayakDIY
Can you run sonar on the same battery or you need a separate one?
It is advisable with ANY sonars and ANY motors to run them on separate batteries. That is best practice to limit issues. Although I have had “less” sonar interference issues with single LiFePO4 batteries running motor and sonar. Sonar graph won’t require a very large battery. Cost won’t be much.
I would love to see how you convert it into a peddle drive on a hobie.
Have a few people working on that project with me. We know it is easily possible. We just want to make it easy for everyone to do. For other brand kayaks YakGadget makes pod mounts for motors which make it easy to add AutoBoat trolling motor.
will this device work with Watersnake 24lb, which lot of people use in Hobie PA paddle drive well? @@KayakDIY
I want to buy one but I am concerned with the electronics durability. With $650 price tag and a one year warranty it makes me nervous to pull the trigger. I would like to see a longevity update on these units.
I’ve had mine for over a year. I was first person in USA to have one. I helped the company get distribution in the USA. The product was already popular in South America for last 3-4years. The electronics inside box are coated with water barrier. Box can handle heavy splashing but is not designed for submersion. It “maybe” could handle short term submersion. Remote is rated waterproof and will be relatively inexpensive to replace if needed. Other components are made of very strong glass filled polymer. AutoBoat is way more reliable than my buddies $3000 Rhodan gps trolling motor which keeps getting fried by rain water.
Thanks for the reply. I did end up ordering a unit last night off. I plan on using this on my 14foot boat. Thanks for the response I appreciate it.
Does the anchor mode hold better in one direction if its pedal drive mounted vs stern? Thanks and awesome video man
No. I didn’t notice anchor mode holding better in stern vs mid hull mount. I like mid hull pedal drive mount because Navpoint heading mode works. In stern mount Navpoint heading mode won’t work for any brand of gps trolling motor including AutoBoat. The biggest factor for perceived performance of anchor mode is current or wind. The more current or wind the less the kayak/boat swings around. The AutoBoat GPS motor points into wind/current when it is higher and you get virtually no swinging around movement. Basically anchor mode in super calm waters with low wind will result in more boat swing and no clear pointing of motor since their is no clear environmental factor pushing it off course in a particular direction. This results in user perception of motor struggling to hold position, but really it isn’t. All GPS motors act the same in this manner. However, for people unfamiliar with GPS motors I thought I would mention. I’ve ran anchor mode for hours in a noticeable outgoing tide canal with almost no movement off course. Love this system.
Like to see it at the bow . I have a NewPort 36lbs thrust short shaft kayak m
Trolling motor
I got video somewhere posted. Can’t remember if it is on here or not. Might be on FB or IG. If I don’t have it on TH-cam I will upload. I put a bow mount for AutoBoat on the Pa12. Works even better. I used ketch mount and attached a transom mount to that.
Would I be able to do this on a float tube 🤔
Anything watercraft designed for a clamp on transom style trolling motor should be seamless and easy. It is simply a trolling motor with AutoBoat adapter kit attached. I just put one on my inflatable pedal kayak. It performed great and held me anchored even in 19-31mph winds. I had used a Minn Kota riptide 45 with AutoBoat. Although if you aren’t in saltwater much a basic C2 Endura 30 would be cheap and likely plenty of power.
Will this also work for an inflatable rubberboat 4 meter?
If the boat has a trolling motor transom mount it should work!
Will this work with a 1994 minnkota auto pilot
Wait would it work on a Striker 90lbs thrust motor from Edisons? It looks pretty similar. And would it work without network connection like way out in the ocean?
30-55lb thrust motors. Beyond 55lb thrust and it doesn’t work well. They will eventually make one for larger motors. I’ve never had connection issues. In fact I feel this AutoBoat GPS is stronger than Xi3’s GPS.
@@KayakDIY doesn't work well? I'm pretty needy for a gps auto pilot for my setup I wish there could be a solution. It just manually turns the shaft of the motor, so the brand doesn't matter does it?
Sucks because I can't find any other products that do what this can
For a little extra, you could get a watersnake Geo.
The Watersnake Geo Is like $1700+ everywhere on google. AutoBoat is $649. That isn’t a little extra…that is a lot extra. Plus I prefer AutoBoat features and it’s size/weight.
@@KayakDIY autoboat in Australia would be $1000aud add a average motor for $300aud. Geospot 65lb $1699aud. $399aud diference in price for an off the shelf unit. Thats a$257usd price difference.
So did spot lock hold you in a good position to fish or was it turning you in all kinds of crazy directions? While it was on the stern. Just asking because that’s what it looked like.
“Any” brand gps motor will turn you all around crazy “IF” there isn’t much current or wind. “IF” there is a lot of environmental factors moving you off course of your anchor point the gps motor actually does better at holding you tight to position and there is less vessel swaying. The GPS motor will point into the environmental forces and there will be less vessel swaying. Low wind low current equals more vessel swaying. AutoBoat reacts to the environment. What I can say confidently is AutoBoat’s GPS system is about as accurate as you can get in the marine world. It seems to hold tighter than other brands tested. AutoBoat has new features not mentioned in this video: waypoint stringing for route follow modes, Navpoint heading jog modes, custom gain settings, stern mount mode feature, and more.
@@KayakDIY in your opinion, does a bow mounted spot lock trolling motor, work better at holding you in a decent position, or is it relatively the same as a stern mounted? I like the stern mounted position because it seems like you have more room, but don’t want the spot lock feature to be useless ya know.
So , if you take the head off motor are you still able to us this?
You just need to have it essentially opened to speed 5 “full power”. So you should likely be able to do that without motor head. I don’t see why you won’t be able to.
Tiny Boats rejoice!!!
Wow. Now i want one.
Awesome
I want one now. Hey, how long does your battery last? I would like to upgrade from the lead acid batteries I've been using. I hate them, LoL.
My LiTime 100ah Mini battery lasts me typically two days of fishing or more. It is worth every penny. The battery only weighs 19lbs and is super compact. It holds a charge when not in use unlike leaf acids I have owned. I’m out all day when I go fishing (8hrs+). The motor isn’t always running full power. Sometimes I’m running anchor mode. Sometimes I’m using route follow mode at low speed to fish mangrove coastal line. I would say I can get 2-3 days of use before recharging. www.litime.com/products/litime-12v-100ah-mini-lifepo4-lithium-battery-upgraded-100a-bms-max-1280wh-energy?ref=k8l6rYjiXC_Dlb
ok I've been looking for this device for over a year now. I have watersnake TS24 and really want to have "anchor mode" I'm willing to buy a compatible trolling motor if the Watersnake wont work but my concern is this: I need to stern mount it and I noticed that when you used the anchor mode with the trolling motor in the stern, the boat seemed to overcompensate the direction and swung the boat back and forth. Do you think having a trolling motor with a very low speed setting would help or is this just what happens when its stern mounted? I fish heavy currents in deep water so I'm worried it's just going to swing me around like a bad dream.
When the current is bit stronger the motor detects and points into the current. When it is more calm the motor might swing a bit more. When outgoing tide or decent wind is out I found it swings side to side less and rather points into the wind or current. If mounted on the stern it would be pulling you backwards against the wind or current. Hope that makes some sense. I will try to get more anchor mode footage soon. At moment I’m with my wife who is battling in the hospital with pretty substantial illness. I’m recently co-owner in AutoBoat since I fell in love with the product. I’m still monitoring messages from hospital and my team (TBNation) are also fielding questions. The AutoBoat pre-ordered units won’t ship till mid-September.
As for the T24 it won’t fit without some customization on your part. The AutoBoat motor collar requires that the motor has a factory steering lock in correct position to secure to. Not sure if you were able to see that. I am planning on modifying the T24 motor with AutoBoat and mounting it inside a Hobie pedal drive. I know it can be done, but it won’t be a 3min install like AutoBoat is with compatible motors.
Also keep in mind the swinging you saw was with footage I believe sped up. So it looked more erratic. I believe I put note in the video that said footage was sped up like 4x or something. Footage was almost like a Timelapse so it looked like kayak jumped around.
@@KayakDIYfirst of all I hope your wife fully recovers 🙏 and thank you for getting back to me. I really think your onto something man, and really think if you can get this device out there and the bugs are worked out it could be a great success, I wish you the best. Ok thanks for letting me know about the sped up part of the video. I gotcha about it pulling you into the wind or against the current but that would be ideal bc then your line would scope out forward from you when you anchor in the current. Again thanks for your response, I'm going to do some research on what motor to get, I want something with low thrust actually so that i dont need such a large battery