I sail in a small lake - tight through the marina. I would feel much better if I could take my Hobie 18 to open water with a trolling motor before raising the main. Same for back in. The 2007 Hobie catalog has part 3179 which is a bracket for the battery and trolling motor bracket, however, the 2009 does not. Any ideas on where to get one or other options.

I think you are refering to a "cheata motor mount" not sure of the spelling. Do a search and I am sure it will come up. Try and find a used one as they are quite expensive. Be sure that you get one for a H18 as they are different for some boats.

Thanks! I did a search and found several hits on the cheata mount. Looks good - haven't found used one yet. The one I mentioned earlier was a combination battery/trolling motor mount which mounted right below the tramp under the mast.