Minn Kota 1866650 i-Pilot Link Buying Guide

The Minn Kota 1866650 i-Pilot Link Remote-Bluetooth is a must-have for boaters who own a Minn Kota trolling motor equipped with the i-Pilot Link system that supports Bluetooth. It’s especially useful for anglers who want more control over their boat’s positioning, whether they’re fishing in calm waters or dealing with tricky currents. If you’re someone who values precision—like being able to hold your boat steady in one spot or circle around a fishing area without manual effort—this remote is for you. It’s also great for those who appreciate modern tech, like a touchscreen interface and the ability to control their motor from a smartphone. Just make sure your trolling motor has Bluetooth capability before you buy, as this remote won’t work without it.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this remote shine and where it might fall short:

Pros:

• Seamless Bluetooth connectivity for easy pairing with smartphones and compatible trolling motors.
• Durable, waterproof design perfect for life on the water.
• Rechargeable Lithium Ion battery for convenience, though you’ll need to buy a charging cable separately.
• Intuitive, customizable touchscreen display that shows essential info like GPS signal, prop status, and battery level.
• Supports multiple remotes, so you can use it alongside other i-Pilot Link controls.
• Advanced features like Spot-Lock (a GPS anchor) and Circle Mode for precise boat positioning.
• Bluetooth allows for over-the-air software updates, keeping your system fresh with new features.

Cons:

• Only works with Bluetooth-enabled i-Pilot Link systems—not compatible with older models.
• No lanyard or charging cable included, which might be a small hassle.
• A few users have mentioned occasional pairing issues, though this isn’t a widespread problem.

The Minn Kota 1866650 i-Pilot Link Remote-Bluetooth is packed with features that make it a standout accessory for your trolling motor:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair with smartphones for quick commands and easy software updates, keeping your system up-to-date with the latest enhancements.
• Touchscreen Display: A full-color, customizable menu shows GPS signal strength, prop status, and battery level at a glance, making navigation intuitive.
• Multiple Remote Support: Use this alongside other i-Pilot Link remotes, giving you flexibility in how you control your boat.
• Waterproof: Built to withstand marine environments, so you don’t have to worry about splashes or rain.
• Rechargeable Battery: Powered by a Lithium Ion battery pack (note: charging cable not included), offering long-lasting power.
• Advanced Positioning Features: Includes Spot-Lock, which acts like a GPS anchor to hold your boat in place, and Circle Mode, for orbiting around a fishing spot—perfect for anglers.

Using the Minn Kota 1866650 i-Pilot Link Remote-Bluetooth is straightforward once you pair it with your Bluetooth-enabled i-Pilot Link trolling motor. From the remote’s touchscreen, you can control everything from speed and steering to advanced functions like Spot-Lock and Circle Mode. Spot-Lock is like an electronic anchor—it uses GPS to keep your boat in one spot, even in windy or choppy conditions. Circle Mode lets you move in a controlled orbit around a specific point, ideal for casting to different spots without constantly repositioning. The remote also has a Heading Sensor that helps counteract wind and current, keeping your boat steady. Plus, thanks to Bluetooth, you can connect your smartphone via the i-Pilot Link app for even more control and to download software updates that add new features over time.

Before you buy, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Compatibility: This remote only works with i-Pilot Link systems that have Bluetooth. Look for the Bluetooth icon on your trolling motor’s head to confirm compatibility.
• Power Source: The remote uses a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery, but the charging cable isn’t included, so you may need to purchase one separately. Check if your trolling motor came with a compatible cable to save the extra expense.
• Lanyard: Not included in the box. For safety, especially on the water, it’s recommended to use a lanyard to keep the remote secure.
• Software Updates: The Bluetooth feature lets you keep your system up-to-date with the latest improvements through the i-Pilot Link app, which is a nice touch for tech-savvy boaters.

To make the most of your Minn Kota 1866650 i-Pilot Link Remote-Bluetooth, consider these tips:

• Check Compatibility First: Double-check that your trolling motor has the Bluetooth icon. If it doesn’t, this remote won’t work, and you’ll need to explore other options.
• Invest in Accessories: Pick up a compatible charging cable and a lanyard to ensure your remote is always powered and secure.
• Explore the App: Download the i-Pilot Link app to take advantage of smartphone control and software updates. It’s a great way to unlock additional features and keep your system current.
• Practice Pairing: If you run into pairing issues, follow the instructions on Minn Kota’s website or app. Most users find it connects easily, but a small number have reported needing to troubleshoot.
• Use Spot-Lock and Circle Mode: These features are game-changers for fishing. Experiment with them in different conditions to see how they can improve your time on the water.

While the remote is highly functional, it’s not without quirks. The lack of a lanyard and charging cable might feel like a minor oversight, especially for a premium accessory. If you’re upgrading from an older Minn Kota system, make sure your trolling motor is Bluetooth-compatible to avoid disappointment. Also, while most users report smooth operation, a few have mentioned occasional pairing difficulties, so it’s worth being prepared to consult Minn Kota’s support resources if needed.

For anglers and boaters who want to take their Minn Kota trolling motor to the next level, the 1866650 i-Pilot Link Remote-Bluetooth offers a blend of modern technology and practical functionality. The touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced positioning features make it a powerful tool for precise boat control, whether you’re fishing or just navigating. While you’ll need to ensure compatibility and possibly pick up a few accessories, the remote’s ability to integrate with your smartphone and support multiple remotes makes it a versatile addition to your boating setup.