As a conclusion to the trail I started last week. I found out that Mercury is near completion of a built in power trim/tilt for my new motor. I found out the panther would pull my motor back about 6 inches, the factory unit will not. I decided to wait till this comes out, then have it installed on my motor. In the mean time I rigged up a simple set-up to keep the mount from breaking while motoring around. That consist’s of a 6 inch 2X4 wrapped in a rubber wrap material that I put in between the motor and the bracket (keeps motor from going down). Then a boat strap wrapped around the motor to the boat (keeps motor from going up. Just an update for all who offered advice, etc.(now off to Lac Seul in the morning)
Thanks again, Moose

All,
Thanks for the opinions and suggestions. I usally try to do things the right way the first time and this may be an instance to pratice that. My plan is to look into a power trim/tilt (Panther)and then pull out the plastic! Thanks for the Lac Seul update, I’ve never been there before, going with a crew thats been there many times. I’ll follow them for awhile, I’m sure. Thanks again, Moose

One more thing.Does anyone know of a dealer in the Woodbury area that carries the Panther line (not Phanter)who also may provide installation. There website has all Wisc. dealers?
Thanks again, Moose

Its funny you should say they should do something about that motor because they have. The o5 9.9 4 strokes are about 30lbs lighter, have shift on the handle, and also have changed the trim/tilt hardware. Having said that I beleive what your saying and plan on going with the Phanter model 35 or the Bracket Pro, all depending on how much i decide I can afford. May just bite the bullet and buy the Phanter. One problem will be time, I’m leaving for Lac Seul next Wednesday (last thing I’d need is problems up there!). Thanks for the help

Steve, Thanks for the reply. On a side note I’m good freinds with Ed and Chad whom you guided on Mill-lacs the first part of July. Man what a day of trophy fishing! I still hear about almost every day. I’ll consider the Panther lift (sounds spendy), but the bank is almost empty. Have you heard of a “Bracket Pro” product, its been suggested on another forum. Thanks for the help.
Moose,

Opp’s, I forgot to mention Scott (didn’t get a chance to make it to Garden Island). Did here from a group who did go there that the bite was tough there also. Thanks agin!
Moose

Thanks again for the fishing tips. Got some cross lock snaps last night! (along with many things a didn’t need). Heading up to LOTW (Oak Island) on Friday.
GREAT Forum! Moose

Gary, I’m very much a promoter of catch and release, especially the larger ones. I have a grandson who i’d love to have catch there off springs some day. If a trophy finds his way into my boat its pictures and measurements to a reproduction guy. I give you my word they’ll be going back in! (except a couple eater size). On my map I see a couple possibilitys of which you speak. Would you prefer I e-mail you with a couple of questions? Thanks for the GREAT info! MOOSE

Hey guys thanks for the info. I kind of like the idea of the snap. I know I’ve at times kept a lure on longer than i should have just because i didn’t want to re-tie. So I’m assuming no one has had ill effects of the extra hardware for walleyes. I’ve got fishing partners who would argue the point that less is better (hardware). Do any of you also use a swivle along with the snap? Thanks again, I learning alot here!
Moose

Scott,
Thanks a ton for the info. Its a good feeling leaving with somewhat of a plan and then taking it from there when you see what your up against. I personaly fish the St. Croix (for walleyes) quite frequently, not claiming to be any kind of expert but if asked I could steer folks in the right direction. Again I appreciate the information and will let you know how we do.
Moose,

Bobber,
Thanks for the reply. I understand other fisherman not wanting to disclose there spots, techniques etc., after putting in the time and effort to aquire the knowledge. I was just mainly looking for general information for early fall fishing in the angle area. FYI, the Bonny Brae has been sold to Sportmans Lodge (the same lodge owner as on the south shore). That is where we’ll be staying also. I’ll fill you in on the fishing when I return.
Thanks again, Moose