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10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#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 Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor is a versatile motor designed for saltwater use. With a 55lb thrust, it provides solid power for most small to medium-sized boats. The 30-inch shaft and transom mount make it easy to attach and adjust, catering to different boat configurations. Its 12V power requirement means it can run on a standard deep cycle battery, although the battery is not included, and a 50Amp circuit breaker is recommended for safety.

The motor's efficiency is notable; it can run all day without overheating and operates quietly, which is great for fishing as it won't scare the fish away. The motor features a 6-inch telescoping tiller handle and an LED battery meter, which adds convenience by allowing you to monitor battery life easily. It supports 8 speeds (5 forward and 3 reverse), with a top speed of about 4 mph, depending on conditions. The 3-blade propeller offers good low-end torque, helping in smooth starts. However, users should be aware that the speed is relatively slow, so it's best suited for trolling rather than rapid travel.

The motor is lightweight at 23.2 pounds, making it easy to handle. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides additional peace of mind. The primary drawback is the need to purchase a battery separately, and the motor might not be powerful enough for larger boats or rougher waters. Nonetheless, for recreational fishing and small boat applications, it is a reliable and user-friendly option.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Thrust
Moves through the water great. I had a Minn Kota 45 pound thrust & replaced it with this Newport 55 pound thrust.
Voltage
Battery voltage indicator is such a nice feature. I will reply back to tell you how accurate it is.
Control Type
I do have one 'wish' for the motor design; The handle that is the gear selector is numbered 1 through 5 for forward, 0 for stopped, and 1 through 3 for reverse.
Mounting Location
Easy to adjust & mount. Would recommend if you're looking for a good trolling motor.
Battery Life
Love the LED indicator on top. Let's you know where you are with battery power.
#2

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

The Minn Kota 1358451 PowerDrive trolling motor is a solid choice for fishing enthusiasts, delivering 55 lbs of thrust and equipped with a 54-inch shaft, making it suitable for various boat sizes. One of the standout features is the advanced GPS trolling system, which allows for precise navigation and control over your fishing experience. The micro remote adds convenience, enabling easy adjustments while you're focused on fishing.

Another significant advantage is the Digital Maximizer technology that helps extend battery life, giving you up to five times longer run time on a single charge. This is particularly beneficial for long fishing trips where battery conservation is crucial. The Deploy-Assist Lever makes putting the motor in and out of the water hassle-free, while the indestructible composite shaft is a major plus for durability.

The Minn Kota PowerDrive is a great option for those who prioritize advanced navigation features and battery efficiency, perfect for casual to serious anglers who fish in both freshwater and saltwater. However, if you’re looking for something lightweight and compact, you might want to consider other models.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Thrust
Moves an 18 ft Smokercraft around like magic.
Mounting Location
Excellent electronic anchor for a 14-ft jon boat, reliable and well-finished.
#3

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

The Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova trolling motor is designed for serious anglers looking for advanced functionality and ease of use. With a thrust of 55 lbs and a 54" shaft, it’s suitable for larger boats and can handle various water conditions, including saltwater use. One of its standout features is the Advanced GPS Trolling System, which allows you to set Spot-Lock to keep your boat stationary over prime fishing spots, and the Drift Mode that helps navigate in challenging weather. The wireless remote adds convenience, enabling control from a distance, which is great for those who prefer not to be right at the motor.

Battery life is impressive, thanks to the Digital Maximizer, which can extend run time up to five times longer than traditional models by regulating power usage. Users will also appreciate the Weedless Wedge 2 prop, designed to cut through vegetation without excessive battery drain.

While this motor excels in many areas, there are some drawbacks to consider. The initial setup might be more complex for beginners, especially configuring the GPS functions and linking with compatible fish finders through the One-Boat Network. Additionally, the price point may be on the higher side for casual users or those just starting in fishing. The Terrova 55 lb. trolling motor is excellent for serious anglers who fish often and want advanced control features, but it may be too complex or expensive for occasional users or beginners.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Control Type
The wireless remote is a game changer, making it easy to control the motor for those with mobility issues.
Mounting Location
Worth every penny, easy to install and steer the boat, especially to reach the best fishing spots.

Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Motors

Choosing the right trolling motor for your boat can significantly enhance your fishing experience. A trolling motor is an electric motor used to maneuver your boat quietly and precisely, which is crucial for fishing. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your needs.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, usually measured in pounds (lbs). It is important because it determines how well the motor can move your boat through the water, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or heavy winds. For small boats or kayaks, 30-40 lbs of thrust may be sufficient. Medium-sized boats may require 40-55 lbs, while larger boats might need 70 lbs or more. To pick the right thrust, consider the size and weight of your boat and the typical water conditions you will encounter.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power system of the trolling motor, commonly available in 12V, 24V, and 36V. This spec is important because it affects the motor's power and battery life. A 12V system is suitable for smaller boats and lighter use, while 24V and 36V systems provide more power and longer run times, ideal for larger boats and more demanding conditions. Choose the voltage based on your boat size and how long you plan to use the motor during your trips.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller, and it is crucial for ensuring the motor stays submerged at the right depth. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, while a too-long shaft can be cumbersome. For bow-mounted motors, measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline and add 20 inches. For transom-mounted motors, measure from the top of the transom to the waterline and add 16-20 inches. Choose a shaft length that keeps the motor submerged in various water conditions.
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 fishing style. Hand control is straightforward and less expensive, foot control allows for hands-free operation, and remote control offers the most flexibility and ease of use. Consider your fishing habits and personal preference when choosing the control type.
Mounting LocationMounting location refers to where the trolling motor is installed on your boat, either at the bow (front) or transom (rear). This is important because it affects the boat's maneuverability and control. Bow-mounted motors provide better control and are preferred for larger boats and serious anglers, while transom-mounted motors are easier to install and suitable for smaller boats. Choose the mounting location based on your boat size and how you plan to use the motor.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the trolling motor can run on a single charge, which is crucial for planning your fishing trips. It depends on the motor's power consumption and the battery capacity. Higher voltage systems (24V and 36V) generally offer longer battery life. To pick the right battery life, consider how long you typically spend on the water and whether you have access to recharge the battery during your trips.

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