Ltrain
Your post really hit home for me. I have been looking to add an autopilot to my boat since the spring of 2018, but as I looked deeper into different systems there was always something that made me want to hold off. My outfit is a 1999 Starcraft Fishmaster 196 with a 150hp optimax and a 9.9 merc kicker. I’m running a Lowrance hook 9 and an Elite 7 HDS. I never gave much thought about using a bow mount. Like you wind control has been a challenge. (Presently I fill my livewell (which is forward/midship) and use drift socks.) This Lowrance auto pilot combined with bow mount seems like just what I need while using Ltrain’s suggestion of using the kicker for 70% primary power. If you have the time, any tips or suggestions would be appreciated.