In today’s world of fishing, innovation is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a pro who likes to ace it during tournaments or weekend angler who fishes for fun, precision and control can make or break your streak.
That’s where Minn Kota comes in, and it’s the reason why the company has been the leader in trolling motor innovation for decades with game-changing i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link GPS systems that change how users fish.
Today, we’re going to take a look at Minn Kota’s GPS technology and what it means for your on water experience – give you the ultimate in control, more efficiency, and more time to catch fish!
What Makes Minn Kota GPS Tech Impressive?
Minn Kota’s innovative GPS technology isn’t just about finding, returning to, and staying on the spots you want to fish.
Through the power of i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link, this device is set to redefine your fishing experience. i-Pilot lets your boat navigate for you: it will automatically maintain any speed, keep you on a heading, and hold you on a set GPS position.
These systems are not experimental or theoretical — they’re built on years of real-world use and trusted by professionals all over the world.
Key Features That Make Minn Kota Stand Out
Spot-Lock: Stay on the Fish
Imagine Spot-Lock as an anchor you can set without being tethered to a real one. A design that, at the press of a button, keeps your boat in place — using GPS to keep your boat automatically balanced against the wind, waves, and current.
Real-World Experience: Many anglers report that Spot-Lock has replaced traditional anchoring entirely. Whether you’re drop-shotting over a structure or waiting for a school to settle, Spot-Lock keeps you exactly where you need to be—without constant adjustments.
Advanced AutoPilot: Drive Smarter
Minn Kota’s AutoPilot capability enables you to set your motor on a given course and it controls itself. Unlike conventional systems, it accounts for wind and current to maintain your desired course.
Expert Advice: Ideal for long drifts and trolling runs. It leaves you free to concentrate on lures, line and fish, not course correction.
Stay on the Curve with i-Pilot Link
Integrated with a Humminbird fishfinder you will be able to follow a depth contour on your chart with the i-Pilot Link. Care to cover the 20-foot drop-off along a weedline? You only need to pick out the contour and let your boat do the work.
Perfect Use Case: Serious tournament anglers often use this to troll right on the edge of high-percentage zones without drifting out and into deeper water, also enabling a higher strike-rate and heating up strikes/luring strikes and reducing inefficiencies and fatigue.
Track Recording and Playback
You can record paths (or routes) and play them back at any time. This feature is pretty helpful if you want to revisit hot drifts or trolling passes.
Track Memory: Many anglers rely on this route-recording feature to repeat their most successful fishing paths — it’s like a memory bank of your best days on the water.
Bluetooth Remote & App Control
Both i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link include an (b) ergonomic remote, though you can also pair via Bluetooth and manage your system with your phone. Update software, adjust settings, or take control manually right from your pocket.
Angler Real-World Advantages
The real genius of Minn Kota’s GPS tech, though, is what it provides to the angler:
More Time Fishing: Less time driving or stowing anchor equals more time fishing.
More Accuracy: You're dropping on a waypoint or navigating to a waypoint, this GPS gives you the ability to keep your bait where it needs to be.
Simultaneously reduce fatigue: Allow the motor to do the work of steering and positioning, so you’re able to put all your energy into fishing for the catch.
Repeat Success: Save and replay your best game plans, so you can easily run back dominant tactics or respond to a new strategy.
Who Is This For?
You don’t have to be a pro to benefit. Minn Kota’s GPS-enabled motors are used by:
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Bass anglers targeting structure and shoreline.
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Walleye fisherman trolling ledges and flats.
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Saltwater inshore anglers needing anchorless positioning.
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Kayak anglers seeking hands-free boat control (in compatible models).
If you fish with purpose, this tech can elevate your approach.
Compatibility and Options
There are several Minn Kota motors available with GPS:
Ultrex – For those in search of a GPS technology foot-controlled trolling motor.
Ulterra – Includes auto-deploy/ stow and trim.
Terrova – Perfect for those who want power, dependability, and GPS smarts.
PowerDrive – A reliable choice for the angler on a budget looking for GPS.
Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Fish
Minn Kota’s Ultrex gives you the control of a Fortrex®, plus all the capabilities of i-Pilot® Link™. When you’re ready to fish smarter, not harder, Minn Kota’s i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link are worth every dollar. Whether you are looking to upgrade your gear and take on giant bass, or you’re a beginner looking to get your feet wet, you will experience the best day on the water with a Jon boat.
Screen Protection Options:
Minn Kota's i-Pilot Link system has a touchscreen remote that is your command center for the water, making it one of the most important items on your boat. Protect the device's screen with a high quality screen protector.
Whether it's sweaty hands, a tackle box spill, or the general abuse of outdoor use, a screen protector adds a layer of defense against scratches, smudges, and accidental drops on hard surfaces.
In our store, we offer a selection of screen protectors sized specifically for the i-Pilot Link remote. Select a finish such as Nano Glass screen protector (clear as crystal), Anti-Glare screen protector (better visibility in the sun). Each protector is designed for easy, bubble-free installation and long-lasting durability, keeping your screen safe from scratches while maintaining clear, crisp visuals.
Whether you're honing in on a hotspot or returning to a favourite waypoint, you can scan structures and fish below with confidence—knowing your remote’s screen is safely protected.
