Spot-Lock is a game-changing tech for fishing. It’s re-writing fishing as if it is a game. Besides being a GPS trolling motor, the lock is called Spot-Lock, so boaters can reach their desired spot in the water without a physical anchor.
This advanced system combines satellite tech with an electric trolling motor. It keeps the boat in place, even in the worst weather. The accuracy and ease of use of the spot lock trolling motor provide a user-friendly fishing tool. The angler can then focus on catching fish, not on positioning the drift boat. Before you go for trolling motors for sale near me, understand the nitty-gritty of spot lock.
What is a spot-lock?
It is a device fitted in complex trolling motors, hence, the ones commonly used in fishing boats. This tech lets boaters find their desired spot, even in strong currents or winds. In general, this lock is equivalent to an anchor that has no limitations. With the technology of this GPS, it keeps the boat where you want to do your fishing, this will save you time and stress.
The system measures the boat’s position in real time. It then acts to keep a stable position. The Spot-Lock feature lets the electric trolling motor work on its own. It uses its propeller to counteract the wind and current, which try to drift the boat from its spot.
This way, the changes are made gradually. Anatomical movements are imitated with a precision that cannot be achieved by hand. Whether it’s casting, jigging, or enjoying the views, the Spot-Lock function lets you relax on the lake.
How does a spot-lock work?
Once activated, the spot-lock function uses GPS to locate the vessel. It will anchor the boat at that point, ignoring any wind or currents. Also, this technology appeals to anglers. They want a fishing spot but don’t want to move there manually every time they need to adjust their position. The gears work by taking the trolling motor and then making it manage it to speed and direction according to the drift of the boat.
The system keeps the boat in its current position. It uses algorithms that consider the boat’s current and intended positions, and factors like wind and current.
If the boat drifts off course, the system activates the trolling motor to correct it. Able to regulate the speed of the trolling motor, as well as directions automatically, so that the boat can stay fixed. It enables the angler to spend more time fishing and less time docking the boat by placing it where necessary.
How accurate is a spot-lock?
It is widely reputed to be extremely precise. In Spot-Lock Generation X forums, many reviewers claim they are accurate. One must remember that installation and calibration can affect this tech’s precision. If the installation and calibrations are perfect, Spot-Lock will hold its best accuracy.
Speaking about Legacy i-Pilot and v-Pilot Link (2007-2016), the expected accuracy is 10-15 feet. The Bluetooth on the V2 version is more accurate. It has updated hardware and new software algorithms. However, it’s important to understand that these precise positions are only possible if the bearing sensor works properly. That’s why it’s necessary to take good care of this unit.
Do you need GPS for Spot-lock?
GPS is key in the luminary job of Spot-Lock technology. Some trolling motors have a feature called Spot-Lock. It can stabilize a boat, holding it in place without any swaying, even in wind or current. The system uses GPS to track the boat’s location. It makes it easy to move to a preferred spot on the water. GPS is reliable and provides accurate boat location data. Without that necessary data, Spot-Lock could not be as effective in helping the captain navigate the boat.
Other than being on a current path, it has the ability of this lock to remember and anchor to specific locations. To place a buoy in your favorite fishing area and mark it for the next time returning to this spot, or simply as an aid to any boater in this location, is very helpful. To wrap things up, GPS doesn’t just have advantages for Spot-Lock -it’s a necessity. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to maximize your experience of the exciting new features GPS trolling motor spot lock has to offer.
Do you need a fish finder for spot-lock?
Not a must of frequency to be a fish finder on Spot-Lock. A fish finder for boats is a GPS anchor system. It is in trolling motors, like the Minn Kota®. It lets the boat hold a precise position on a fishing spot. Trolling motors that come with GPS systems such as i-Pilot or PinPoint sit on a chart and don’t need to be linked to a fish finder to utilize the feature. Moreover, i-Pilot is uniform as it does not have to be imported from the device and factored in without issue.
There is a link between prowling motors, fish finders for boats, and other devices, like inboard motors, GPS, and satellite radios. Spot-Lock won’t affect the fish finder’s accuracy. But, tech devices work well together in fishing.
On the other hand, anglers may perhaps find it easier to use a remote instead of a foot pedal, so that they can have a better convenience. Hence, Spot-Lock does not always require a fish finder. But, if the fish finder is well-used with Spot-Lock, fishing will be more complex and focused.
What is a spot lock jog?
The Jog function, developed for some trolling motors, lets you move your boat 5 feet in any direction by pressing a button. This function is very handy here. It helps you stand your ground over a specific location of clean water. You won’t have to move around manually to keep your position.
It gives freedom of forward, backward, and sideways movements to both the right and left. Take the i-Pilot system, introduced by Minn Kota. It has made fishing easy. It lets boaters move, turn, and hold a fixed position.
Before you start to use the Spot Lock Jog on your trolling motor you just need to switch it into the Spot Lock mode first. As soon as the steer mode is enabled, switch your boat steering to the dedicated buttons to make it go in the desired direction.
The controls are mainly: Speed Down Mode for jogging back, Speed Up Mode for jogging forward, left for jogging left, and right for jogging right. This is a thing I would use if I had to carefully go through some shade like around a structure or the reefs. You can do this by just moving around the area methodically with your boat stable.
Does MotorGuide have a lock?
MotorGuide certainly has a spot-lock feature as a virtual anchor in some of its newest models. The MotorGuide XI5’s metering capability sets it apart. Users endorse its effectiveness in open water, but they report issues near bridges.
The main function lets you anchor at a specific spot very quickly. This tool helps anglers who want to stay in one place, without being moved by currents or wind.
Also, the company’s Tour Pro model should be considered as the next step. It has a built-in Pinpoint® GPS. It is three times more accurate than its competitors. So, users can stay more steadily at their chosen spot. The Xi3 model is good quality with a money option and also comes with this feature GPS anchor/spot-lock and cruise control on it, as well as a heading lock.
Wrapping up!
In short, spot lock innovation is a favorite among anglers. They dislike adjusting their boat’s cleaning technique. This function is available from multiple manufacturers, among MotorGuide as well, in a variety of ways and at different accuracy levels.
However, it offers no guarantees for anchoring. It should never be the only method used. Therefore, sailors need to be cautious while they are on the water. We always advise the use of rescue/remedial equipment such as traditional anchors/drift socks alongside. Get the best electric trolling motor for your boat.
