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I opted for a transom mount trolling motor for my 130 SS. The bow mount option would be much more expensive plus require me to operate it while standing on the bow. However, the Minn Kota motor bracket will not fit over the transom due to the rub rail, etc. So I am looking at using a motor bracket to mount on the transom, then mount the trolling motor to the bracket but only while on the water and using the trolling motor. Due to the limited space and positions on the boat, I am thinking this is the best option. Any experiences or suggestions?

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For mounting an electric trolling motor, a retractable bracket is neither necessary or desirable, A fixed mount bracket is the only way to go.

I use a gas kicker, but the mount would work either way.

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Update: Despite the motor bracket being well built, it was just too large and had interference issues with the trolling motor hardware, so I can’t use it.
I have found these options, one for the stern and one for the bow, if I use that method.

https://marineproducts.net/search.php

https://marineproducts.net/products/trolling-motor-deck-mount.html

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Capt - Not a good solution. Go with Gypsmjim's solution.

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No good deck access. The transom is strong enough to mount a bracket.

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I ordered this from Birdsall Marine. Base plate mounts onto transom, the remainder of the device is removable with 4 machine screws. Not intended for holding the trolling motor while cruising. The utility of having it removable is nice as long as it is strong and reliable. I will have to secure the motor inside the boat during cruise, but it only weighs about 20 pounds.

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If the bracket isn't strong enough to hold the motor while cruising, it wouldn't pass muster for me.

Having it removable is no advantage to me either.

Garelick and Panther make awesome brackets. I have 1 of each and can attest to their quality and functionality.

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I really don't understand why you are asking for advice and then repeatedly not taking it.

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Phil T, strike down the middle of the plate, you are correct! The Birdsall device didn't pass the test either. I ordered the Panther marine fixed outboard bracket.
Transom type trolling motors just don't have the clearance to fit over the rubrails generally, only 3 1/4inches of space on the Minn Kota transom clamp.

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Huh? My Minn Kota had an adjustable height. When I brought it out of the water I pulled it up so 75% of the shaft was inside the boat.

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I got the Panther Marine bracket and the Minn Kota trolling motor installed. I checked it all out with a sea trial, works great no leaks. I can steer the boat with the steering wheel instead of the tiller in most case, but there is a certain trolling motor and other engine height and angle where the trolling motor prop hits the whale tailed motor. But it’s a negotiation between mounting the trolling motor close to the boat centerline or at the outer edge of the transom, so it works. I did notice that the Panther bracket will catch the wake in a hard right turn which I sort of expected due to the low height above the water.
Glad I bought the trolling motor early, a lot of them are out of stock now.