I see you're leaning towards the AP on your motor, which I'm sure it's a fine option but just so you are fully informed I'll list some advantages of the bow/kicker combo.

Keep the hours and wear and tear of the big motor. Also if your motor is a 2 stroke you know they prefer to operate in the upper rpm bands.

If you add a bow mount you can take advantage of the spot lock and jog features- works great if you want to stay on some schooling perch or if you want to cast for walleyes or to manage drift speeds.

If your big motor has problems you can get back to port. I think it's very important to have a kicker on the great lakes .

Now obviously having the bow/ kicker combo is more expensive but the precision of control and the safety features are worth it.