Published on: April 6, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan
Fishing and boating are fun and exciting activities you can do during your weekends or days off. These activities fire up your spirit and challenge you to make the most out of it. However, in activities like these where the winds might become strong and the waters turbulent, you need the best trolling motor to use to make the most out of your activity, the best and safest way possible.
Like other traditional motors, trolling motors run quietly and allow you to approach still in the water without scaring the fish. And unlike paddling, you can sit comfortably in your fishing kayak and catch fish.
A trolling motor is of great help and can use in your fishing and boating activity since it is an engine that keeps your boat powered and running. Since it plays a very important role in keeping your activity fun and safe, it is very important that you have the most reliable trolling motor to use. So, with this discussion of the top ten trolling motors, it will be easier to make the right choice for you.
What Is a Trolling Motor?
This is an independent engine that is principally utilized for fishing. It very well may be fueled by power or gas and situated on the bow or harsh some of the time both. It isn’t the principal wellspring of impetus.
Whenever the primary motor of the boat is working the trolling motor is lifted out of the water to pull and make the flow more agreeable. It is utilized to move fishing boats in the water without making a lot of clamors to try not to terrify fish.
How to Choose the Right Trolling Motor
Trolling Motor Type
Before you choose what trolling motor to use for your boat, you have to determine what type of trolling motor is best for your boat. There are 3 types of trolling motor: bow mount, transom mount and engine mount trolling motor.
A bow mount trolling motor is a type of trolling motor you can attach to the front part of your boat. This type of trolling motor can provide a better maneuver while on water, thus, it allows a boatman/fisherman to successfully catch a lot of fish. However, bow mount trolling motors usually come expensive.
A transom mount trolling motor is a type of trolling motor you can attach on the stern or the back part of your boat. This type of trolling motor has a more affordable price and is usually used by boats that are smaller in size. However, it does not enable one to maneuver the boat very well and precisely.
Lastly, an engine mount trolling motor is a type of trolling motor that is attached on an outboard motor’s cavitation plate. This is more convenient to use since it does not require much space. However, this type of trolling motor comes expensive and does not provide an easy boat maneuver.
Trolling Motor Battery Capacity
In addition, in choosing the right trolling motor, its battery capacity is considered as well. A trolling motor comes in 3 different battery capacities: 12V, 24V and 36V. Smaller boats can reliably use trolling motors with 12V battery capacity. On the other hand, bigger boats must use trolling motors with either 24V or 36V battery capacity.
Trolling Motor’s Tube Length
The tube of a trolling motor has a standard length of 42 inches. However, the right trolling motor must have a tube length that enables the prop to submerge 1 foot into the water. Furthermore, if you are going to use the boat in rough waters, the length of the tube must be enough that the prop will be submerged 6 inches into the water.
Trolling Motor’s Power Measured Through Pounds of Thrust
To control a boat regardless of the wind and water current conditions, your trolling motor must be powerful and is appropriate for the size of a boat. A trolling motor’s power is measured through pounds of thrust. A 14-16 feet boat with a trolling motor power of around 40-55 pounds of thrust would suffice. A 16-18 feet boat with a trolling motor power of around 70-80 pounds of thrust would be enough as well. Lastly, 18-feet boats that are heavier require a trolling motor power of around 105 pounds of thrust.
Furthermore, to choose the right trolling motor for your boat, you can also use this rule of thumb: every 100lbs. of your boat’s overall weight requires 2 pounds of thrust. Thus, if your boat’s overall weight is 4000lbs., you need a trolling motor with a power of 80 pounds of thrust.
Benefits of Using the Right Trolling Motor
It Can Enable You to Precisely Maneuver Your Boat
If you have the right trolling motor for your boat, you can easily be able to maneuver and control where your boat must go and stop. Thus, this guarantees you a safe and fun water experience.
It guarantees you a safer boating experience regardless of wind and water current conditions.
Always remember that there is no standard trolling motor for every boat. Thus, you must choose the best and the perfect trolling motor that fits your boat’s weight and length, so that you will have a fun and safe boating experience, even if the wind and water current conditions might get rough.
It Saves You From Unnecessary Damages and Expenses
Choosing the right trolling motor for your boat saves you from unnecessary damages and expenses in the long run. Thus, do not use any cheap and unreliable trolling motor for your boat, since it will not just cost damages and money, but it might as well put your life at risk especially while you’re in water and the conditions get terrible.
How to Use Your Trolling Motor
First, you must correctly mount your trolling motor on the boat. You can mount the trolling motor either on the bow, on the stern, or on the outboard motor’s cavitation plate.
After mounting the trolling motor, it is now time to use it for some fun water action! You must situate yourself nearest to where the trolling motor is mounted. Then, choose the speed of the trolling motor through the pedal. Trolling motors have speed control that have 1 as the slowest speed and either 5 or 10 as the fastest speed. It is highly recommended that when starting the trolling motor, you must first switch it to the slowest speed until you make the speed gradually faster.
Afterwards, you can switch the trolling motor to either a constant or momentary function. If you set the trolling motor at a constant function, it will just run until you turn it off. If you set the trolling motor to a momentary function, it will just run for a short period of time.
Most trolling motors allow you to maneuver it to go to the right by pressing the front of the control pedal, or go to the left by pressing the back of the control pedal. If you want to go straight, you can just release your foot from the pedal.
How Does A Trolling Motor Work
A trolling motor works by being a secondary source for the boat to move and propel once it is correctly mounted on the boat’s bow, stern or on the outboard motor cavitation plate. It is protected in a watertight container which should be submerged in water to make the best use of it as well as to prevent it from overheating.
Furthermore, a trolling motor can be maneuvered through a pedal or a hand control. Through these controls, you can take charge on what direction the boat will go as well as the running speed of the boat.
Trolling motors come in different battery capacities; it can have a 12V, 24V or a 36V battery capacity. Smaller boats will do great if they have a 12V or 24V trolling motor battery capacity. On the other hand, bigger boats require a 36V trolling motor battery capacity for it to work well during water action.
In addition, a trolling motor works by powering or speeding your boat. Thus, if you want to make the most out of your boating and fishing experience, you surely need a trolling motor for your boat.
How Do I Install a Trolling Motor?
1. Attach the mounting bracket to the bow of the boat. Make sure the mounting bracket is secure and properly aligned.
2. Mount the trolling motor to the mounting bracket using the bolts and nuts provided. Check the instructions that come with the motor to make sure you’ve tightened the bolts correctly.
3. Connect the trolling motor’s power cable to the battery. Make sure the red (+) lead is connected to the positive terminal and the black (-) lead is connected to the negative terminal.
4. Install the foot pedal and throttle control. If the foot pedal is wireless, make sure it’s charged and turned on.
5. Test the trolling motor by turning it on and confirming that it runs in both forward and reverse. If it runs correctly, you’re ready to go!
How to Maintain Trolling Motor
If you take proper care of your trolling motor then your motor will provide you with great service. Though the trolling motor doesn’t need a lot of maintenance at all, motor maintenance and regular check boost the reliability and lifespan of your motor. Motor maintenance extends the motor life and keeps the performance for a longer period. Here are some tips so that you can take proper care and continuously get great service from your trolling motor-
- After each use, inspect and clean the propeller of the motor. It helps to seal the allowed water inside the motor. It saves your motor from damage.
- For a saltwater motor, use fresh water and clean it and remove dust and all debris after use.
- Check the prop nut regularly and ensure it is properly tightened. Check the nicks, blades, and abrasions too. If you feel necessary, then smooth the sand with fine sandpaper.
- Lubricate the composite shaft with aqueous-based silicone spray and coat it periodically. Please note that, clean it before doing that. This maintenance will make the retraction and deployment smooth. You may also expose any metal part with spray.
- The ideal state is fully charged for a trolling motor. When you leave the motor idle period, please make sure about its tickle charge.
- Charge the motor as soon as possible after using it.
- When you’re not using the motor or while transporting it, please ensure that its power has been turned off.
- Check the battery terminal for corrosion or dirt when you get the opportunity. Clean it if needed.
Editor’s Speech
Trolling motors are definitely of great use to power and run your boat during water activities. However, it is not enough to just use any trolling motor for your boat, since it can cause damage to the boat and unnecessary expenses on your parts.
To have your boat the most over control, getting a trolling engine with the correct shaft length is significant. In the event that the bass is excessively long, working your boot in shallow water will be impossible or difficult.
In addition, having the wrong trolling motor for your boat can put your life at risk, especially if you are in the water and the wind and water current conditions get tough and terrible.
So, it is always best and wise to choose the right trolling motor for your boat. With these trolling motor buying guides, you have more options on what accurate trolling motor to pick for your boat.
I’ve tried to cover all the necessary information about a good quality trolling motor and highlighted the features of the top 10 motors in the market.
Select the one that suits your boat or kayak and ensure a fun, safe, and fulfilling experience in your every boating and fishing activity.
Recommendations Our Top 10 Trolling Motors
1. Intex Trolling Motor for Intex Inflatable Boats, 36″ Shaft
The Intex Trolling Motor for Intex Inflatable Boats, 36″ Shaft is considered to be the best electric boat motor especially made and compatible for most inflatable boats.
This trolling motor gives an all-out performance in the quietest way possible, and it can be maneuvered no matter if the water current conditions are changing.
In addition, what makes this Intex Trolling Motor among the best is its ability to be used both in freshwater and saltwater.
Thus, no wonder this Intex Trolling Motor is one of the highest-rated trolling motors, and one of the best choices even in other electric trolling motor reviews. However, just remember that this trolling motor requires a 12V and 60A deep cycle marine battery for you to put it into great use.
Things We Liked
- Works smooth;
- Reasonable speed;
- Water cooling system;
- Used in freshwater and saltwater;
Things We Didn’t Like
- Plastic propellers;
2. Watersnake T24 ASP – 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Watersnake t24 asp – 24-pound thrust 12v electric saltwater trolling motor is the right model you can use for your boat! Being among the best products available in the market, this has a telescoping handle that allows you to move it forward at different speeds. aThis trolling motor can be mounted in many positions and has a lock bracket for you to install it in the easiest way possible. The foot control system makes it easier to control.
This model offers the best fishing and boating experience for you since it can be used both in saltwater and freshwater. In addition, this Motor is built with durability, making it reliable to use no matter what the wind and water conditions are. Thus, if you are looking for the best 12 volts trolling motor for your boat, this is the perfect one for you.
Things We Liked
- Used to in freshwater and saltwater;
- Has battery indicator;
- One year Warranty;
- Lite weight.
Things We Didn’t Like
Practically not any.
3. Newport Vessels NV-Series 36 lb. Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor
Newport Vessels NV-Series 36 lb. Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor could be the best transom mount trolling motor for your boat!
It has a tube that is 30 inches in overall length and is made of composite fiberglass, making it really durable and heavy-duty. This trolling motor runs on a 12V battery, and it has 5 speeds forward and 3 speeds on reverse, making it easy to guide and control.
In addition, it has a telescoping handle which has a length of 6 inches as well as a battery meter.
This is considered to be the best trolling motor for kayak and inflatable boats. Furthermore, you can also use this trolling motor both in freshwater and saltwater. Just remember to use a 12V deep cycle or marine battery for this trolling motor to get the best benefits from it.
Things We Liked
- Fiberglass composite shaft;
- Durable and heavy-duty;
- (8 speeds) 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds;
- Stainless steel hardware;
Things We Didn’t Like
- Head and shafts is not sealed;
4. Minn Kota Endura C2 Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor
If you are looking for the best trolling motor for your boat, this Minn Kota Endura C2 Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor could be the best one for you!
This 12V trolling motor has an overall tube length of 36 inches, and comes with a 6” telescoping handle to offer you a better maneuver. Considered as the best transom mount trolling motor, it has 5 speeds forward and 3 speeds on reverse to offer you the best control for your boat.
This trolling motor has a lock bracket which reliably secures the trolling motor as well as makes the instalment process easier. It operates in the coolest and quietest way possible, which also helps in maximizing the battery’s power.
This trolling motor also offers you the best boating and fishing experience because it is made with durability and comes with a warranty.
Things We Liked
- Telescoping handle;
- Durable shaft;
- 8 speeds (5 forward and 3 reverse);
- Durability and warranty;
Things We Didn’t Like
- Practically not any;
5. Newport Vessels NV-Series 86 lb. Thrust Mounted Electric Trolling Motor
If you are looking for the best electric outboard motor for your boat, this Newport Vessels 86lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor could be the best choice for you!
This trolling motor has a 86-pound thrust, ensuring it will provide an all-out power and performance in every fishing and boating activity. Its tube has an overall length of 40 inches and is made of fiberglass, making it very durable and heavy-duty.
Being considered as the best transom mount trolling motor to use, it runs in a 24V battery and has 5 speeds forward and 3 speeds on reverse. It comes with a durable 6” telescoping handle to offer you the best boat maneuver, and has a covering made of stainless steel and zinc, making it perfectly ideal to be used on saltwater.
Thus, if you are looking for the best trolling motor for your boat that has the finest quality and is a great deal for the money, this Newport Vessels 86lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor could be the perfect one for you.
Things We Liked
- 86-pound thrust;
- Overall 40 inches’ fiberglass tube;
- 8 speeds (5 forward and 3 reverse);
- Durable and heavy duty;
- Stainless steel;
- Saltwater use;
Things We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons;
6. Minn Kota Terrova Freshwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor
If you are looking for the best trolling motor for your boat, this Minn Kota Powerdrive Pontoon Boat Trolling Motor is the perfect one for you! This trolling motor comes with a 45-inch shaft length and has an overall long 60 inches.
This trolling motor comes with a quick-release bracket that is aluminum-made and uses electronics to help extend the battery’s life. It offers an all-out power and performance in the quietest way possible.
It has a cutting-edge propeller that ensures you will not get caught and stuck in the weeds or with anything in the water. In addition, this trolling motor comes with a 2-year warranty, making it truly a great bang for the buck. Wireless remote included with this troll so you can easily control it.
Things We Liked
- Using GPS to lock onto fishing spots;
- 112-pound thrust;
- Unique bearing system;
- Durable and heavy-duty;
- Wiring is completely concealed and protected.
Things We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons.
7. Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Transom Mounted
Are you looking for a cheap trolling motor that performs well without requiring you to break the bank? Then, this Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor is the perfect choice for you!
This wireless trolling motor has an overall tube length of 30 inches, and runs with a 12V battery, making it ideal for small boats.
It comes with 30lbs. thrust and a 6” telescoping handle and tilt twist tiller to offer you the best control for your boat.
It has 5 speeds forward and 3 speeds on reverse to offer you optimum boat control while in action. According to other electric outboard motor reviews, it provides an all-out boating performance without being beyond the budget.
Things We Liked
- Telescoping Handle;
- 30-inch shaft;
- 5 forward and 3 reverse Speeds;
- Durability and warranty;
- Indestructible shaft;
Things We Didn’t Like
- Windy problem;
8. Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor
Are you looking for the best trolling motor for your boat that offers an all-out power and performance in your every water activity? Then, this Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor is the right choice for you!
This trolling motor offers a 55 pound of thrust and runs in a 12V battery, making it the best one to use for small boats. It has an overall tube length of 30 inches, and its tube is made of fiberglass, making it really tough and durable.
This Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor has 5 speeds forward and 3 speeds on reverse, allowing you a better control on where you will head your boat to.
This trolling motor also offers a smooth boating action because of the optimum control and steering ability it offers you. In addition, this trolling motor has an outer covering made of aluminum, making it rust-resistant and perfect to use in saltwater.
Things We Liked
- 55lb thrust;
- 30-inch composite fiberglass;
- 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds;
- Stainless steel;
Things We Didn’t Like
- 1 12V batteries required;
9. Watersnake T24 ASP Thrust Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Transom Mount
Fishing and boating are no doubt the best activities you can do during your free time. However, in order for you to make the most out of it, you need the most reliable trolling motor to use.
Thus, make your every boating and fishing activity the best experience ever with this Trolling Motor.
The 34lb engines have a two-edge propeller. The 54lb engines each run a three-edged propeller. All propeller shafts are hardened steel and the props have a weedless plan, so you can push the limits during your next experience. Every one of the engines runs on 12V power and works with 5 forward and 3 converse rates, which are controlled with the turner handle choke.
This is perfect to use for small boats. Thus, if you are looking for a trolling motor that is high-quality made and reliable to use, this 12V Thrust electric fishing boat trolling motor is perfect for you.
Things We Liked
- High and low speed;
- Forward and reverse switch;
- Fixed tiller;
- Energy-saving design;
- Durability composite shaft;
- Comfortable handle for improved steering.
Things We Didn’t Like
- No cons.
10. Minn Kota Riptide Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor with Latch
Fishing and boating activities could be totally fun times when you have everything you need, and everything you have is reliable to use. Thus, are you looking for a trolling motor that is definitely reliable and comes with advanced technology to make your water activities as best as possible?
Then, this Minn Kota Riptide Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is the perfect one for you! This trolling motor is considered to be the best bow mount trolling motor in the market with its all-out performance in saltwater boating and fishing.
This trolling motor comes with a steering control that is electrically powered. It has an overall tube length of 48 inches. In addition, this best trolling motor comes with cutting-edge technology CoPilot hand control for easier boat control and maneuver.
Things We Liked
- 12V batteries;
- Digital Maximizer;
- Ergonomically contoured Tilt/Extend Tiller handle.
Things We Didn’t Like
- No noticeable cons;
FAQs
Can it be Used in the Ocean
Yes, definitely you can use this in the ocean and I’m pretty sure that you will get a great experience.
Is the Mounting Bracket Able to be Adjusted in Any Position of the Shaft?
Yes, the bracket is able to be set as up and down. The bracket can be moved up and down so you can adjust it. You have a locking ring that prevents the moving and the thumb screw which keeps it from turning.
Does it Work on Coolerz Tropical Breeze II Inflatable Floating Island?
This motor is very well built and is a nice motor. You can use these motors on your Coolerz tropical breeze II inflatable floating island. But you need an additional firm mounting in order to attach it.
Can it be Used in Fresh Water on Seahawk Inflatable Boat?
Yes, if you have space for a battery and a place to mount it on your boat.
How Fast Will a 55 LB Thrust Trolling Motor Go?
Accepting perfect riding conditions, the utilization of the fuel, for example, the distillate marine motor diesel, and moderate burden, a 55-pound push motor is probably going to achieve a most extreme speed of just 5 miles for every hour.
To What Extent of a Trolling Engine Shaft do You Need?
The shaft length standard is 42″. To decide the correct length for the boat, measure the good ways from where the pole is mounted on the transom or the deck to the water. At that point include 16″ (for MotorGuide) or 20″ (for Minn Kota) and select the following near estimation.
Is a Trolling Motor Thought About an Outboard Motor?
The trolling motor is totally independent like an outboard motor, yet not at all like the outboard motor, that is won’t be the essential wellspring of impetus. An electric motor is typically utilized on little boots since they do not require as much control.
Conclusion
Trolling motors are a great investment for anglers and recreational boaters alike. They provide a reliable, efficient, and convenient way to power your boat. They are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes and power ratings to suit different needs. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years and provide a great source of propulsion for any boat.
Featured image credit: Amazon.com
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About This Writer
Hi, I am responsible for the 'Homeowners Power Solutions' category. My name is Liam Jaxon and a licensed technician with 7 years of experience in vehicle batteries, electrical gadgets, and home appliances. My working experience in different residential & light commercial electrical sectors and the automobile industry helped to acquire vast knowledge in this industry.
