My 85 HP seems to move me along a tad to quick for my preference when trolling the shorelines. Bumping it in and out of gear is not only a pain, but I am sure it's not good for gears. I have dragged buckets, but those too are a pain. A wind sock is also always in the way.
I am sure this is a common problem. Let's hear some suggestions.

Get a lower pitched prop when you're gong to be trolling and just be careful about over revving the engine.

try tilting your motor up higher, this cuts down on the fwd thrust.

they also make a flap that goes behind the prop for that purpose. How fast are you looking to troll and how are you getting your readings?

A devise called a happy troller will solve your provblems, it is in the fornm of a troller plate that divers the prop thrust and will slow the boat to a crawl...

thats what I was talking about

put the parachute on the midcleat. so it's right next to the boat.

i just installed a happy troller, have not used it yet. i guess we'll see if it works in the next couple of weeks.

where do find these happy trollers?

west marine, boaters world, any boating supply catalog should have them

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/10001/-1/10001/263227/10001/639/572/19?iorb=4764

i just installed a happy troller, have not used it yet. i guess we'll see if it works in the next couple of weeks.

Paul,

Let us know yr speed numbers with and w/o. I wanna tube more this year. I'll need something.

I was thinking of going with the troll plate, was just not sure how they worked, but the principle seems logical. Wonder what it does to the steering?
I'll keep you posted as to the outcome.

I thought of the trolling plate but found that tilting the motor up and putting the trim tabs all the way down works perfect for me.

put the parachute on the midcleat. so it's right next to the boat.

This is what i do (with a drift anchor), short enough so there is no way it can get to the prop. You'll find you may need to throttle up a bit it works so well.

guys, what size sock?. I have a 24" drift sock, that I attempted the mid/forward cleat idea, on a short line.. handling was a bit overwelming. Usually alone at the helm, I bungie the wheel while tying or setting lines, boat had a mind of her own.

I think mine is like 4'-5' diameter. Rig it in the water before your moving. Let it fill up, keep the line short then throttle up, I've done this alone countless times.

Thanks guys for the help.