MotorGuide R3-55 Hand Control Transom Mount - Digital 09MT - 55lbs-42"-12V

Imagine gliding silently across a glassy lake at dawn, positioning your boat exactly where the bass are hiding without spooking them. That's the everyday reality with a reliable transom mount trolling motor like the R3-55 hand control model. Designed for freshwater anglers who demand precision, power, and endurance, this 55-pound thrust unit with a 42-inch shaft transforms frustrating drifts into controlled maneuvers, letting you focus on the bite.

Unlock Superior Control and Efficiency

At the heart of this trolling motor lies advanced digital power management, which intelligently adjusts output to match your needs. Unlike basic motors that guzzle battery life at inconsistent speeds, this system monitors amp draw and heat in real-time, delivering smooth variable speeds forward and reverse. The result? Longer outings on a single charge, cooler operation during marathon sessions, and speeds fine-tuned from a whisper-quiet crawl to a steady push against wind or current.

Hand steering shines here with an ergonomic, extendable twist-tiller handle that extends to put controls right where your grip wants them. Multi-position angle adjustments ensure comfort whether you're standing, sitting, or braced against choppy wakes. The reversible motor head adds versatility, flipping effortlessly for bow or backtrolling setups, adapting to your boat's layout or fishing style.

Built to Withstand Real-World Demands

Anglers know transom mounts take a beating from rough ramps, trailer vibrations, and constant submersion. This model's aluminum alloy construction, reinforced with stainless steel hinge pins and a rugged powder coat finish, laughs off corrosion and abuse. The composite shaft flexes without breaking under stress, while the solid lower unit—packed with durable internals—runs quieter and cooler than competitors.

A machete-style three-blade prop slices through weeds and maintains grip in varied conditions, from shallow flats to deeper channels. Quick one-touch depth adjustments let you dial in the perfect submersion without fumbling tools, and the taper-lock mount with seven adjustment points secures firmly to your transom, even on smaller crafts like jon boats or bass skiffs.

Maximize Your Fishing Success

Picture this: You're working a weedline, needing micro-adjustments to stay over structure. The five forward and two reverse speeds give pinpoint control, keeping you stealthy as fish approach. Paired with a 12-volt deep-cycle battery, expect all-day runtime for casual trips, or extend it further by matching throttle to conditions—trolling slow saves power for those surprise hooksets.

Fishermen rave about its quiet operation, which lets you ease within casting distance of spooky crappie or walleye schools. For multi-species pursuits in rivers or ponds, the 59-amp draw balances thrust without overwhelming standard batteries, making it ideal for solo outings or family adventures where reliability trumps flash.

Simple Setup for Immediate Action

Mounting is straightforward: Secure the clamps to your transom, align the shaft vertically, and tighten the swing-over knobs for rock-solid hold. The tilt, stow, and deploy mechanism stows compactly for trailering, saving deck space. Routine care involves rinsing after salty exposures (though optimized for freshwater), checking connections, and storing dry—simple habits that preserve its multi-year performance.

Who Benefits Most?

This setup excels for kayak hybrid users, small aluminum boat owners, or anyone upgrading from foot-controls seeking simpler hand operation. It's a workhorse for ice-out walleye runs, summer bass tournaments, or fall panfish limits, where durability meets affordability without skimping on tech.