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10 Best Canoe Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30" Shaft (23M1000203)

The Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor stands out as a solid option for those looking for a reliable saltwater canoe trolling motor. With its 55 lb thrust, it offers ample power for maneuvering in various water conditions, making it suitable for both casual and more serious boating enthusiasts. The 30-inch shaft is a good fit for many canoe models, ensuring efficient use in both calm and choppy waters.

One of the key strengths is the motor's efficiency. It runs quietly and without overheating, which is crucial for not spooking fish while trolling. The inclusion of an LED battery indicator is a practical feature, helping users keep track of battery life without constant checks. The motor provides flexibility with 8 different speeds, including 5 forward and 3 reverse, allowing for better control over your canoe's movement.

There are some considerations to keep in mind, though. The motor requires a separate 12V battery, which is an additional expense, and ideally, a battery with 50Ah capacity is recommended. The maximum amp draw of 52A means users should ensure their battery can handle this to avoid performance issues. Additionally, while the motor is durable with its aluminum build, it may be slightly heavier at 23.2 pounds for some users who are more concerned about portability. Mounting is straightforward with the transom design, but users should also be aware of ensuring a secure fit to avoid any issues on the water. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind regarding its longevity and reliability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Mount Type
Mounting and adjusting the motor is straightforward, and its performance in reverse is excellent with no vibrations.
Battery Life
Battery efficiency is impressive, running all day with minimal power loss and no overheating.
#2

Minn Kota 1358451 PowerDrive 55 lb. Thrust, 54" Shaft, Micro Remote

The Minn Kota 1358451 PowerDrive trolling motor is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and robust canoe trolling motor. It offers a substantial 55 lb. thrust, which is suitable for a variety of water conditions and ensures adequate propulsion. The 54-inch shaft length provides good versatility, making it suitable for different boat sizes and depths. Operating on a 12-volt system, it is easy to integrate with standard marine batteries.

The advanced GPS trolling system is a standout feature, allowing for precise boat positioning and control via the included micro remote. This makes navigation and staying on course straightforward, even for those less experienced with trolling motors. The deploy-assist lever is practical, facilitating easy deployment and retrieval of the motor. Additionally, the push-to-test battery meter is convenient for monitoring battery life. The digital maximizer technology is impressive, extending the motor's run time significantly by delivering only the power needed, which is ideal for a full day's fishing.

Constructed from durable materials such as aluminum and featuring an indestructible composite shaft with a lifetime guarantee, it is built to last. The transom mount type is easy to install and stable. However, at 24 pounds, the motor may be considered heavy by some users, and the package weight of 44 pounds might be cumbersome to handle alone. Despite its strength, the motor operates quietly, which is beneficial for a peaceful fishing experience. With a two-year warranty, it is a reliable option for unisex-adult users looking for an automated and efficient trolling motor system.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Thrust
Moves an 18 ft Smokercraft around like magic.
Control Type
Keeps a 14-ft jon boat anchored electronically with ease.
#3

Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova 55 lb. Thrust, 54" Shaft, Wireless Remote

The Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova is a high-quality trolling motor ideal for anglers who need reliable and advanced navigation for their canoe. With a thrust of 55 lbs, it provides ample power for most canoeing needs. The 54-inch shaft length makes it versatile for various water depths, ensuring you can maneuver effectively in different conditions.

The 24-volt system offers sufficient voltage for extended use, and the Digital Maximizer feature extends battery life significantly by providing up to five times longer run time on a single charge, making it a perfect choice for long fishing trips. The wireless remote and advanced GPS trolling system enhance control and ease of use, allowing you to set Spot-Lock, record paths, and manage speed and steering from an easy-to-read LCD screen. The integration with the One-Boat Network is a bonus for those using Humminbird fish finders, as it allows seamless connectivity and control through a smartphone app.

The Stow/Deploy lever and Auto Park feature make handling the motor more convenient, while the Weedless Wedge 2 prop and indestructible composite shaft ensure durability and efficiency. The only notable drawback is its weight, at 19 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, it requires 2 AA batteries for the remote, which adds to ongoing maintenance.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Thrust
The motor has ample power, effortlessly steering boats to prime fishing spots.
Control Type
The wireless remote is a game-changer, especially for those with mobility issues.

Buying Guide for the Best Canoe Trolling Motors

Choosing the right canoe trolling motor can significantly enhance your paddling experience, making it easier to navigate waters and enjoy your time on the water. When selecting a trolling motor, it's important to consider various specifications that will determine how well the motor meets your needs. Understanding these key specs will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best fit for your canoeing adventures.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, usually expressed in pounds (lbs). This spec is important because it determines how well the motor can move your canoe through the water, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or windy weather. Thrust values typically range from 30 lbs to 100 lbs or more. For small canoes on calm waters, a lower thrust (30-40 lbs) may be sufficient. For larger canoes or rougher waters, you might need a higher thrust (50 lbs and above). Consider the size of your canoe and the typical water conditions you encounter to choose the right thrust level.
Shaft LengthThe shaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller and is crucial for ensuring the propeller stays submerged while in use. This spec is important because an incorrect shaft length can lead to poor performance and potential damage to the motor. Shaft lengths generally range from 30 inches to 60 inches. For canoes, a shorter shaft (30-42 inches) is usually adequate, but you should measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline to determine the best length. Ensure the propeller is submerged by at least 12 inches for optimal performance.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power requirement of the trolling motor, typically 12V, 24V, or 36V. This spec is important because it affects the motor's power and battery life. A 12V motor is suitable for light use and smaller canoes, while 24V and 36V motors provide more power and are better for larger canoes or longer trips. Consider how often and how long you plan to use the motor. For occasional short trips, a 12V motor may suffice. For frequent or extended use, a higher voltage motor will offer better performance and efficiency.
Control TypeControl type refers to how you operate the trolling motor, with options including hand control, foot control, and remote control. This spec is important because it affects your convenience and ease of use. Hand control is straightforward and ideal for smaller canoes, while foot control allows for hands-free operation, which can be beneficial for fishing. Remote control offers the most flexibility, allowing you to operate the motor from anywhere in the canoe. Consider your preferred style of operation and how you plan to use the motor to choose the right control type.
Mount TypeMount type refers to how the trolling motor is attached to the canoe, with options including transom mount and bow mount. This spec is important because it affects the motor's performance and ease of installation. Transom mounts are easier to install and are suitable for most canoes, providing good control and maneuverability. Bow mounts offer better control in windy conditions and are preferred by anglers for precise positioning. Consider your canoe's design and how you plan to use the motor to choose the appropriate mount type.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the trolling motor can run on a single charge, which is crucial for planning your trips. This spec is important because it determines how far and how long you can travel without needing to recharge. Battery life depends on the motor's voltage, thrust, and your usage patterns. For short, occasional trips, a motor with a shorter battery life may be sufficient. For longer or more frequent trips, look for a motor with a longer battery life to ensure you don't run out of power on the water. Consider your typical trip duration and distance to choose the right battery life.

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