The Best Trolling Motor
We looked at the top 6 Trolling Motors and dug through the reviews from 17 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Trolling Motors.
Our Review Process
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Our Picks For The Top Trolling Motors
Thanks to this trolling motor's aluminum construction, you can count on it remaining strong and durable for many years to come. The device works best with inflatable fishing boats, but can also be used with kayaks or other small water vessels. The 6-inch telescoping handle is comfortable to hold and operate, and you'll find the unit offers five for...
Extremely DurableThis trolling motor is outfitted with an LED light that indicates when the power is running low.
Grab a friend and spend a day on the lake fishing for trout with this trolling motor. It's portable, lightweight and features an energy-efficient battery. The motor is also quite powerful and able to offer a total of eight speed settings. Thanks to the adjustable mounting bracket, you'll be able to set this motor up in a matter of minutes.
Operates QuietlyYou can use this trolling motor in both fresh and salt water.
This saltwater trolling motor is quiet and efficient, and you can fish for an entire day without it overheating. It has 8 speeds and a 6-inch telescoping ergonomic handle that is comfortable to use. This motor is made with a 30-inch fiberglass shaft and stainless-steel hardware for use in saltwater.
Fish All Day LongRevel in the silence when you choose this trolling motor for your fishing trips.
This trolling motor is constructed with a composite shaft that is highly damage-resistant. Its other features include 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings and a 6-inch telescoping tiller. It also has a power propeller, which is great for moving your boat away from heavy vegetation in the water.
Versatile and Virtually IndestructibleSpend your time on the lake without worry with this durable motor.
Power your inflatable boat, kayak, canoe or small dinghy with this portable trolling motor that weighs less than 5 pounds. It has a low- and high-speed control, forward and reverse switch and an extendable handle. It is adjustable for transom mounting, and there is an optional bracket available.
Lightweight; Easy to UsePerfect for those who are often on-the-go, this transportable trolling motor is a great pick.
Buying Guide
Electric trolling motors move fishing boats slowly and quietly through the water in order not to scare fish away. They are sold separately from boats, and they come with different features and price points. They differ from outboard engines that produce horsepower; a trolling engine’s power is measured by pounds of thrust. The higher this number is, the more power the motor has.
Trolling motors are sold in 12, 12/24, 24, and 36 volts. Larger motors have more voltage, which means more power for the propeller. They need electricity to work, and this comes from batteries on the boat. Trolling motors need at least one deep-cycle battery that is not used by the boat’s engine.
Decide what type of steering mechanism you want for your trolling motor. Some have tiller handles that are operated by hand, while others are operated with foot pedals. Some are easy to install with screws, while others need folding mounting brackets. Remote-controlled trolling motors are the easiest, but they will cost you more money; some even have auto-pilot!
When shopping for trolling motors, also check the boat shaft length. If the trolling motor’s propeller doesn’t reach the water, you’re out of luck. Always measure first. Also make sure the motor has enough thrust to move your boat, especially if several people are on the fishing expedition.
Mounting clamp width is also important, since most of these motors attach onto the boat’s side. If the motor’s mounting clamp doesn’t open up wide enough to attach onto the boat, you won’t be able to use it.
Some trolling motors are made for freshwater, some for saltwater and some for both. Clarify this ahead of time and find one that works in all of your favorite fishing spots.
Why we recommend these trolling motors?
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The Best Bang For Your Buck
Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mount Electric Trolling Motor
Key Takeawy
This saltwater trolling motor is quiet and efficient, and you can fish for an entire day without it overheating. It has 8 speeds and a 6-inch telescoping ergonomic handle that is comfortable to use. This motor is made with a 30-inch fiberglass shaft and stainless-steel hardware for use in saltwater.
What to Look For
- In general, every 400 pounds of boat weight requires approximately 5 pounds of trolling motor thrust.
- Be sure to measure the shaft length and the width that the mounting clamp needs to be before shopping.
- The biggest trolling motor is not necessarily the best one for your boat.
- People who want to fish all day should get several extra deep-cycle batteries for their trolling motors, as the motors consume a lot of electricity.
- Never use the same battery for the engine and trolling motor — the engine battery can get drained and stop working.
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