Quick Answer
Yes, you can link a Terrova trolling motor to a Humminbird fish finder. The Terrova is compatible with Humminbird units that have Ethernet networking capability or units that can be connected via NMEA 2000. By linking the Terrova and Humminbird together, you can access useful features like Spot-Lock, Anchor Mode, and Cruise Control right from your fish finder display.
Connecting Via Ethernet Network
Humminbird units like the Solix Series, Helix Series G2N, Helix Series G3N, and HELIX 5 CHIRP G2N have built-in Ethernet networking. This allows you to connect them directly to the Terrova’s integrated Ethernet port using an Ethernet cable. Here are the steps to link them:
On the Terrova
1. Make sure your Terrova is updated to the latest firmware version for full compatibility. This can be done using the Motor Guide app.
2. Locate the Terrova’s Ethernet port underneath the cowling.
3. Keep the port cover in place when not connected.
On the Humminbird
1. Access your Humminbird’s networking settings, usually under the Sonar tab.
2. Enable Ethernet or LAN connectivity and select “Client” mode.
3. Set the IP address to be on the same subnet as the Terrova. The Terrova’s default IP address is 192.168.0.1
Connecting Them
1. Use a standard Ethernet network cable to connect the Ethernet ports on the Terrova and the Humminbird fish finder.
2. The two devices should now recognize each other and form a direct peer-to-peer connection.
3. You may need to power cycle both units for them to establish the connection.
Connecting Via NMEA 2000
If your Humminbird unit does not have Ethernet capability, you can still link it to the Terrova over an NMEA 2000 network. Here’s what’s needed:
Equipment
– Terrova trolling motor with NMEA 2000 gateway
– Humminbird fish finder with NMEA 2000 capability
– NMEA 2000 compatible power cable
– NMEA 2000 drop cable or backbone cable
– NMEA 2000 terminator resistor
Steps
1. Connect the NMEA 2000 power cable to the Terrova’s NMEA 2000 port. This powers the gateway.
2. Use a drop cable or backbone cable to connect the Terrova’s NMEA 2000 gateway to your Humminbird’s NMEA 2000 port.
3. Add a terminator resistor on one end of the NMEA 2000 network.
4. The Terrova and Humminbird will now communicate over the NMEA 2000 network.
Accessing Terrova Controls on a Humminbird
Once your Terrova trolling motor and Humminbird are connected, you can access useful controls like:
Spot-Lock
Spot-Lock holds the Terrova on a precise GPS position to keep your boat locked over a fishing spot. You can turn Spot-Lock on and off right from the Humminbird.
Anchor Mode
Anchor Mode uses GPS to hold a certain radius around a point and compensate for wind and current. It’s great for anchoring. Activate it from the Humminbird.
Jogging
Jogging allows you to remotely steer the Terrova in various directions from the Humminbird.
Cruise Control
Cruise Control lets you set a trolling speed that the Terrova will maintain even as conditions change. Adjust it right on the Humminbird display.
Speed Control
The Speed Control menu gives you digital control over the Terrova’s propeller rpm and speed.
Benefits of Connecting a Terrova and Humminbird
Linking your Minn Kota Terrova and Humminbird together provides some great benefits:
- Access Terrova functions conveniently from the Humminbird’s interface
- No need to install separate Terrova remote or i-Pilot Link
- Create waypoints and navigate to them from either device
- View the Terrova on Humminbird’s mapping for increased awareness
- Monitor key information like voltage and speed on the Humminbird display
- Humminbird acts as additional display for programming Terrova
- Keep hands free to fish instead of controlling trolling motor
Frequently Asked Questions
What Humminbird models work with the Terrova?
Most current Humminbird models with built-in Ethernet, NMEA 2000 capability or MEGA Imaging support can connect to the Terrova. This includes the HELIX, ONIX, SOLIX and ION series. Older models may require adapter cables.
Do I need i-Pilot Link if I connect via NMEA 2000?
No, the i-Pilot Link remote is not needed. You can access all the same i-Pilot features directly from the Humminbird.
Can I access Humminbird’s MEGA Live sonar on the Terrova?
Yes, MEGA Live sonar data can be shared across an Ethernet or NMEA 2000 connection to the Terrova, providing transducer streaming sonar.
How do I select what data is shared between the Terrova and Humminbird?
You can configure data sharing and select which i-Pilot parameters to show on the Humminbird from the Advanced menu.
What Ethernet cable do I need?
You’ll need an outdoor-rated, shielded Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable. Length should be 50 feet or less for best reliability.
Summary
In summary, linking a Minn Kota Terrova trolling motor and Humminbird fish finder is straightforward with the right connectivity built into each device. Ethernet and NMEA 2000 provide direct integration and unlock the most control features. Connecting the two together provides a lot of versatility and convenience on the water. It allows accessing Terrova functions right from the Humminbird without any additional components required.
Terrova Model | Compatible Humminbird Models |
---|---|
Terrova | HELIX Series G2N and up, ONIX Series, SOLIX Series |
Terrova i-Pilot | HELIX Series G2N and up, ONIX Series, SOLIX Series |
Terrova i-Pilot Link | All Humminbird models with MEGA Imaging |