Trolling motor steering controller

So I was looking around for how to modify my minn kota for mounting to the back of the yak and didn't want to have a long pole in my way to steer it with. I found this and think it might work well if I can waterproof it better. Let me know what anybody thinks of it.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&ei=HuGeVLWCIJfloASGsICAAw&url=http://www.duckworksbbs.com/plans/simpson/steering/ElectricSteering.pdf&ved=0CCEQFjAB&usg=AFQjCNHR49qLu015XrvGyvLOyzsdx9EuDQ&sig2=aI8g-FcvHiVZPtTtSpoDEA

I absolutely LOVE ingenuity like this! That is a fantastic idea... I like the concept of running electrical wires and would be a LOT easier than a cable system. buuut....

Don't you want the ability to raise/lower motor from the cockpit?
Do you have transom to clamp it to or will you modify the clamp bracket to bolt it on?
You are right about the motor. I'm not so convinced the motor (window regulator) is waterproof or "marine duty" for that matter either.
Plywood is cheap, but if I were to copy this I would probably cut it out of Plastic (UHMW sheet or such).

Im definitely not poo-pooing the idea... but If you are looking for a DIY method, I would definitely check out Bassyaks.com and look into their DIY kits. Or for even more simple approach (but more costly) is start with an I-pilot MinnKota. You may likely find some good used stuff on ebay and such for cheap and a lot better in the long run.