Trolling Motor Buying Guide and the Best Trolling Motors

Saltwater and fresh water trolling motors are specifically designed for different types of water bodies and are built to withstand different conditions.

Saltwater trolling motors are built to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments. This includes exposure to salt, which can cause corrosion and damage to the motor. Saltwater trolling motors are typically made of materials that are resistant to corrosion, such as stainless steel and anodized aluminum, and are equipped with specialized coatings that help to prevent rust and corrosion.

Fresh water trolling motors, on the other hand, are not built to withstand the corrosive effects of salt and are typically made of materials that are less resistant to corrosion, such as aluminum. They may not have the same level of protection against rust and corrosion as saltwater trolling motors and may not be as durable in long-term use in saltwater environments.

Another key difference between saltwater and fresh water trolling motors is their power and thrust capabilities. Saltwater trolling motors are typically more powerful and have higher thrust capabilities, as they need to overcome the stronger currents and tides found in saltwater environments. Fresh water trolling motors, on the other hand, are designed for use in calm, freshwater lakes and rivers and may not have the same level of power and thrust as saltwater trolling motors.

In conclusion, the choice between a saltwater trolling motor and a fresh water trolling motor depends on the type of water body in which the motor will be used. For saltwater environments, a saltwater trolling motor is recommended for its durability and power, while a fresh water trolling motor is suitable for use in freshwater bodies.

Shaft Measurement

Trolling motors have a typical shaft length of 42 inches. Measure the distance from the shaft’s mounting point on the deck or transom to the water to calculate the correct length for your boat. Then, multiply that measurement by 16 inches for Motor Guide or 20 inches for Minn Kota, and choose the next closest length the manufacturer offers.

To keep the prop below the water’s surface as the boat pitches and rolls, longer shafts are used in choppy waters. The hub assembly should be around six inches beneath the water’s surface. Adjust the mount to fine-tune the motor’s vertical position.

Thrust

Thrust is a term used to describe the forward force generated by a trolling motor, which is used to propel a boat through the water. The amount of thrust generated by a trolling motor is measured in pounds and determines the maximum weight that the motor can move through the water.

In terms of comparison to other common devices that use power, a trolling motor’s thrust can be compared to the power of an electric car’s engine. Just as an electric car’s engine generates a specific amount of horsepower that determines its maximum speed, a trolling motor’s thrust determines the maximum weight it can move through the water and its speed.

For example, a trolling motor with 55 pounds of thrust is capable of moving a boat weighing up to 1,100 pounds at a slow speed, whereas a trolling motor with 105 pounds of thrust can move a boat weighing up to 2,100 pounds at a faster speed.

It’s important to note that thrust is not the only factor to consider when choosing a trolling motor. Other factors, such as the boat’s length, weight, and type of water it will be used in, should also be taken into consideration.

The Power Equation

The greater the voltage, the greater the push. Trolling motors are available in 12V, 12V/24V, 24V, and 36V configurations, with the most powerful producing more than 100 pounds of torque, making them appropriate for moving heavier watercraft such as pontoon boats. Maximum thrusts at various voltages are around 12V/55lb, 24V/75lb, and 36V/109lb.

The Ideal Size

Larger is always better. Larger boats require more power, but when selecting a trolling motor, keep in mind wave movement, wind, and current. The advantages of erring on the side of strength include that stronger motors operate more effectively at slower speeds and offer a safety margin for handling wind, waves, and current. The amount of push produced by a vessel for every 200 pounds of gross weight is five pounds.

Energy Consumption

Consider your boat’s size, the maximum battery capacity you can install to meet a trolling motor’s energy needs, and whether or not you’ll be able to recharge the batteries while you’re on the water. Make sure the models you are considering have low amp draws.

A 12V model with 44lb of push can draw 36 amps whereas a 24V model with 54lb of force could only be able to draw 28 amps. Larger motors, on average, need higher battery capacity. With a boat that is 16 feet or larger, you should generally have 24V if you fish from sunrise to sunset. A 36V motor’s durability is a plus for serious fishermen who spend a lot of time on the water.

Controls

Stern-mounted motors often feature mechanical twist tillers for steering and adjusting speed. Another option is a grip with many positions and a stirrup squeeze control for speed and on/off. Bow-mounted motors may have a mechanical or electronic foot pedal for hands-free control, allowing fishermen to concentrate on fishing.

Since there are no cables or wires to step over while operating the engine from anywhere on the boat, cordless remote controls are a favorite among us. They transfer radio waves to the power head. Mobility also improves safety since it allows for a more even distribution of weight throughout the boat. A momentary switch for brief power bursts, which aids in repositioning the boat, and a bypass switch for operating the motor at continuous high speed are two additional nice control features.

Modulation Of Pulses

“Maximizer” improves the energy efficiency of a trolling motor at slower speeds by converting incoming current into the pulsating current, allowing the motor to run at endlessly varied speeds without power loss due to gear resistance. Digital technology also decreases sonar interference, which is an issue with analog motors.

Compatibility With Autopilot

To successfully fish, an experienced operator is needed to follow shorelines or sandbars at a distance or to maintain the boat’s position over underwater structures where the larger fish are hiding. An autopilot can take care of this task if you fish alone.

The Top 7 Best Trolling Motors

Newport Vessels L-Series Transom Mount Electric Trolling Motor for Saltwater

When it comes to maritime equipment, Newport Vessels is a name you can trust. This trolling motor is an excellent alternative for people searching for a high-quality motor that can withstand saltwater. It’s expensive, but it’s composed of high-quality materials and components, and because it’s designed for usage in the water, the extra cost gives you much-needed peace of mind.

It comes in two thrust outputs: 62 lbs and 86 lbs, both of which are suitable for various situations. The biggest size is a relatively powerful engine that gives tremendous performance in a quiet design, letting you go across the water silently, even against strong currents and waves. Both sizes include a 40-inch fiberglass composite shaft that is nearly indestructible and completely rust and corrosion-resistant. A telescoping handled tiller controls the shaft and prop, providing confident steering and maximum control. There are 8 speeds to select from, with 5 forward and 3 backward.

Battery Meter

The battery meter is one of the most useful features of this trolling motor. 10 LEDs monitor your battery level, displaying how much power you have remaining, ensuring that you are not stranded in the middle of the ocean without electricity. This motor needs two 12-volt cycle batteries or a 24-volt trolling motor marine battery to be powered. Finally, Newport Vessels shows their faith in their goods by providing a two-year warranty on each of their motors.

Pros

• Powerful saltwater trolling motor
• LED battery meter with ten points
• Components made of tough aluminum and stainless steel
• Manufacturer’s guarantee of two years

Minn Kota Endura C2 55 Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Minn Kota’s stealthy motor is one of the finest trolling motors available. If you want sufficient power that is provided covertly and quietly, the Endura C2 series is perfect for you. While it is available with several thrust levels, a thrust level of 55 is an excellent choice for a wide range of freshwater boaters.

Take notice of the freshwater label, as this 12-volt transom-mounted engine is only intended for use in freshwater. It has a 36-inch-long shaft, a power prop for added force when pushing past obstacles, and a convenient and simple-to-use telescoping handle and tiller. With 5 forward and 3 backward speeds, the tilt-twist tiller allows for simple speed control and steering. It also ranks well in terms of energy efficiency, with some boaters reporting up to 8 hours of continuous use before their battery died. This product’s catchphrase is “cool quiet power.”

Easy Installation

Finally, there is the mount. This Minn Kota trolling motor includes an easy-to-use bracket that can be fitted in a variety of various locations for simple installation. It also has a raise and rotates level lock bracket, which allows for quick back trolling.

Pros

• There are several thrust ratings available for a 12-volt freshwater trolling motor.
• A durable composite shaft that will not rust or corrode
• Includes a Weedless Wedge 2 power prop.
• Extremely quiet and energy efficient.

Motor Guide R3 Digital 55 Trolling Motor

Motor Guide is a part of the US-based Brunswick Corporation, which also owns Mercury Marine, and has been developing trolling motors for over 50 years. Their focus is on producing trollers for professional fishing machines, and they work closely with Lowrance to integrate high-tech sonar transducers and Chart plotter technology into trolling motors.

They offer the high-quality, transom-mounted R3 and R5 digital saltwater series for more modest applications, such as pushing RIBs and dinks. Yes, they’re pricy, but they’re made of aluminum alloy and stainless steel, and they’re finished with a three-coat corrosion protection procedure. It is better to take the R3 55-pound thruster with a 91cm shaft, which is still good value.

Pros

• Chartplotter technology
• Corrosion Protection
• High-tech transducers

Trolling motor Watersnake Venom SXW

This Australian-made saltwater troller from Dandenong, Victoria, is available with 34, 44, or 54-pound thrust motors and 66, 76, or 91cm shafts. All are powered by independent 12-volt batteries and have five forward and three backward speeds. There are several strong composites used in their construction, including the shaft, as well as refrigerator-white paint. The 54-pound Venom with its three-bladed prop, telescoping tiller, and digital voltmeter on the head cover is best.

Pros

• The whole weight is only 6.7 lbs.
• Components made of stainless steel
• Controls for high and low speeds are selectable.
• 1-year manufacturer’s warranty

GoPlus Electric Trolling Motor for Freshwater

This is another low-cost alternative. It’s from GoPlus, which isn’t one of the largest brands in the business, but the company does produce some high-quality, low-cost maritime equipment, so don’t dismiss it. It may not have the clout of a household brand behind it, but it does assist to keep prices down.

The GoPlus trolling motor has three maximum thrust outputs: 46 lbs, 55 lbs, and 86 lbs. Naturally, the larger the vessel, the more thrust you’ll need, but if you’re searching for a trolling motor for a kayak or canoe, the smallest size will suffice. Each size has eight customizable speeds, including five forward and two reverse choices.

Power is delivered to a three-blade propeller through a fiberglass composite shaft controlled by a 6″ telescopic adjustable grip and tiller. For attachment, the motor includes a reinforced Nylon bracket.

The remaining components are constructed of strong aluminum. A ten-point LED battery indication keeps a careful check on your power use, preventing you from wandering too far from the shore if your battery appears to be on its way out.

Speaking of which, this engine runs on a 24-volt battery. Though it promotes being compatible and competent in both saltwater and freshwater, you use it mostly in freshwater.

Pros

• Nylon mounting bracket with reinforcements
• There are 8 different driving speeds to choose from (5 forward/3 reverse).
• LED battery level indicator with ten points
• There are three thrust possibilities for various vessel sizes.

Minn Kota Terrova iPilot Trolling Motor

The Minn Kota Terrova bow mount trolling motor is a more cost-effective option if you want the features of the Garmin model mentioned above but don’t want to spend as much money. It’s still a costly product since it provides high-quality performance, but it foregoes some of the finer elements to make it more affordable.

A multi-function foot pedal with two steering options—a heel/toe pedal and left/right steering buttons—accompanies this engine, which generates 80 lbs of torque from a 24-volt battery. It has a smart and simple-to-use ramp mechanism that gently glides the engine into the water, as well as a Lift-Assist function for spring-loaded stowing help.

One of the most intriguing features of this engine is the iPilot capability. It uses GPS to pinpoint your favorite fishing areas, records your speed and direction, and has a touchscreen remote control capability that works in tandem with a Hummingbird fish finder gadget. It includes its fish-detecting technologies, including a built-in Universal Sonar 2 device and a protected transducer that won’t be impacted by your motor’s noise and vibration, even without the Hummingbird fish finder. This is a fantastic engine that is primarily intended for freshwater and bow-mounted fun, but it is also well-suited for a variety of other uses. There are three shaft lengths available: 45-inch, 60-inch, and 70-inch.

Pros

• Power prop Weedless Wedge 2
• Useful Spot-Lock feature
• iPilot trolling motor is sophisticated.
• There are three shaft lengths available.

Garmin Force Foot Steer Trolling Motor

Amongst the most technologically advanced trolling motors available is this Garmin model. It also comes at a premium price. If you’re serious about fishing, though, this is the king of motors, with more unique features than you can count. One of the most powerful trolling motors available for purchase while maintaining silent operation, this strong trolling motor produces enormous power, up to 120 lbs. if configured for 36 volts.

This trolling motor is equipped with all the latest features. It has a wireless GPS Chartplotter with a complete connection. This allows you to navigate easily or set your boat on autopilot. You can also keep it fixed in position while you focus on fishing. A CHIRP sonar with high-definition imaging is also included to assist you in finding and locating suitable fishing locations without the motor noise distorting the data.

Power Usages Is A Slight Negative

However, because it can run on either 36 or 24 volts depending on the amount of time you want to spend fishing and the amount of force you need, it uses more power than others. 24 volts provides 86 pounds of force, whereas 36 volts provides up to 120 lbs. You may use any voltage with no problems because the brushless motor is energy-efficient and smooth, so you won’t have to worry about your batteries running out in a matter of minutes.

The wireless foot pedal, which feels and functions like a typical cable-steered foot control but without the inconvenience of cables and with the extra freedom of wireless technology, is the most amazing aspect of this motor. It also includes a portable remote control for simple point-and-shoot maneuvering. Perfect for simple navigation.

Pros

• Shaft length: 57 inches
• excellent for both freshwater and saltwater
• Wireless motor control and steering
• GPS and fish finder technologies integrated

Conclusion

When choosing a trolling motor for your boat, there are a few things you need to consider. The first thing to think about is the size and weight of the trolling motor. You want to choose one that is the right size for your boat. It should be capable of handling the weight of your boat and gear.

You also need to think about the power of the trolling motor. There are different power levels available. You need to choose one that is powerful enough to push your boat through the water. You also need to consider the type of battery you will be using with the trolling motor. Some trolling motors require a deep-cycle battery, while others can use a regular car battery.

Finally, you need to think about the price. Trolling motors can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Choose the one that fits your budget and your needs.