Who doesn’t love kayaking? It’s fun on its own and lets you experience the salty breeze and sun while you drift along the ocean currents. You can also use it for fishing and paddling a kayak is an excellent way to work out and stay fit.
But while paddling around has its own merits, sometimes your kayak needs a bit of help. This is where a trolling motor for kayak comes in. These motors allow you to have a hands-free kayak experience which is perfect as it leaves your hands free to focus on fishing. It is also great to have around in case your arms get tired while kayaking.
There are different kinds of trolling motor on kayaks and they are suited for different conditions and uses. With so many out there, it can be confusing to figure out which one is right for you.
We’ve examined loads of motor models in our search for the best trolling motor for kayaks and compiled reviews for 12 of the best ones right here. If you’ve been looking for trolling motor reviews, you’ve come to the right place so keep reading!
What is a Trolling Motor?
A trolling motor is a self-contained unit that comes with a motor, propeller, and controls. They are attached to an angler’s boat, usually the bow or stern. Most trolling motors are often lifted from the water to reduce drag when the boat’s primary engine is in operation.
In other words, trolling motors move through the water gently, without disturbing the currents or making noise, so that your kayak or boat won’t scare off the fish. Unlike an outboard engine, a trolling motor’s power output is measured in pounds of thrust, instead of horsepower. The greater the pounds of thrust, the stronger the trolling motor is.
Why Use a Trolling Motor for Your Kayak?
Perhaps you’re wondering why you need a trolling motor at all. After all, you can just use your paddles or an ordinary outboard motor. But they have 2 main uses:
Trolling for Game Fish:
When a trolling motor is used for catching fish, it is often a secondary means of propulsion. The kayak trolling motor setup for this purpose is mounted on the transom along the primary outboard motor or a bracket specially made for the purpose.
Precision Maneuvering:
These trolling motors provide auxiliary power which allows anglers and kayakers to precisely steer their boats. Sometimes your hands get tired when paddling. You can then switch t o your trolling motor to give yourself a break. Trolling motors designed for this purpose are generally mounted in the bow.
Best Trolling Motor Brands for Kayaks
With all the trolling motors out there, which ones are the best for your kayak? You need to get a motor from a brand that is well-known and will work properly. A good trolling motor is quiet, will last for a long time, and give you your money’s worth in terms of performance.
These 3 trolling motor brands are among the best ones available:
Minn Kota:
This brand makes the best quality trolling motors money can buy. Their motors are powerful and quiet. Furthermore, they can be used in both deep and shallow waters. A Minn Kota kayak trolling motor is great for fishing and will last for years.
Newport:
Need one of the best electric trolling motors money can buy? Look no further than Newport Vessels! They have some of the best electric trolling motor reviews, especially those meant for fishing. Newport vessels trolling motor reviews are also perfect because they have models meant for freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Brocraft:
Brocraft trolling motors are easy to mount and are comparatively lightweight. They offer lots of kayaks trolling motor kits at a pretty reasonable price. They also sell trolling motor mounts for kayaks, so all your motor-related needs will be covered. Their motors are adjustable for different hull lengths and are made for both left- and right-hand coordination.
Best Kayak Trolling Motors: Our Favorites
Don’t have all the time in the world to go through all 12 of our entries? Then have a quick look at the highlights instead!
- Editor’s Choice: Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor
- Best All-Around: Newport Vessels Kayak Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
- Best Budget Pick: Brocraft Deck Mount Trolling Motor Bracket
- Quietest Model: Newport Vessels Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
12 Best Kayak Trolling Motors
Without any more delay, here are our entries for the best trolling motor for kayaks. We loved how well these motors worked and we hope they will make your kayaking and fishing experiences more enjoyable!
| Editor’s Choice | Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor Want a motor that works quietly, doesn’t overheat and is easy to operate? Look no further than this saltwater electric trolling motor. 01. Easy to mount and use. 02. Reasonably quiet. 03. Can be used in both salt and fresh water. | 9.9 | Check Price |
| Runner Up | Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor Want a kayak fishing trolling motor that handles your boating needs too? This Endura model includes a telescoping tiller that makes operating the motor even easier than before! 01. The shaft is indestructible. 02. Decent power output. 03. Sturdy and reliable. | 9.8 | Check Price |
| Best All-Around | Newport Vessels Kayak Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor Need a trolling motor for kayak saltwater fishing that has a little more power? It has a 24-inch shaft which gives you a lifetime of solid performance and lets you choose between 36 and 55lbs of thrust. 01. Long battery life. 02. Easy to install. 03. The tilt feature uses a more convenient lever. | 9.7 | Check Price |
| Light weight and Reliable | Watersnake 12V Saltwater Transom Mount Trolling Motor Kayak If you’ve been looking for a small trolling motor for a kayak, you’ve come to the right place. Small but powerful, this motor gives you 24 pounds of thrust and has a refreshingly simple design. 01. Versatile and compatible with many different vessels. 02. Lightweight and compact motor. 03. Easy to use and install. | 9.6 | Check Price |
| Best Budget Pick | Brocraft Deck Mount Trolling Motor Bracket Want a kayak with a trolling motor for sale? We’ve got something even better: a super affordable, high quality trolling motor that works with lots of different kayaks, boats, and canoes! 01. Simple and streamlined construction. 02. Versatile and easy to mount/remove. 03. Sturdy and durable. | 9.5 | Check Price |
| Best for Fishing | Newport Vessels Electric Kayak Trolling Motor If you are an avid fisher or an angler by profession, this trolling motor and mount combo will be perfect for you. 01. Powerful and efficient motor. 02. Long-lasting and durable. 03. Easy to install and remove. | 9.4 | Check Price |
| High-Quality Pick | Newport Vessels X-Series Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor The quality of this trolling motor will knock your socks off! Long-lasting, quiet, and efficient; you will love how well it works. 01. Very sturdy and durable. 02. Can be used for heavy-duty fishing trips. 03. Long battery life. | 9.3 | Check Price |
| Durable Design | Minn Kota Traxxis Transom Mount Trolling Motor Need a motor that will let you fish for hours and hours on the end? This trolling motor is all about endurance and long-lasting durability. 01. Precise steering. 02. Long-lasting and indestructible shaft. 03. Digital maximizer lengthens battery life. | 9.2 | Check Price |
| Quietest Model | Newport Vessels Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor Worried about spooking fish with the sound of your motor? This ultra-quiet trolling motor is super powerful and will make your fishing trips much better. 01. Quiet. 02. Sturdy and durable. 03. Good value for money. | 9.1 | Check Price |
| High Performance | 8-Speed Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor If you aren’t too fussy about noise or aesthetics, you will enjoy the reliable performance this trolling motor has to offer. 01. Compact and streamlined. 02. Long-lasting and reliable. 03. High-quality components. | 9.0 | Check Price |
| Solid Functionality | Brocraft Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Universal & Rocket Launcher Rod Holder Need a replacement for your trolling motor’s mount? This one comes with the whole package, including a rod holder for two launch rockets. 01. Quality material and construction. 02. Easy to clamp and remove. 03. Suits a variety of motors. | 8.9 | Check Price |
| Most Secure | Minn Kota Riptide Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor Don’t want a transom-mounted trolling motor? This bow-mounted motor is a nice alternative and works just as well as the more conventional transom-mounted ones! 01. Good speed control. 02. Secure attachment to mount. 03. Won’t rust or corrode. | 8.8 | Check Price |
01. Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor (Editor’s Choice)
Want a motor that works quietly, doesn’t overheat and is easy to operate? Look no further than this saltwater electric trolling motor. It has 36lbs of thrust, which is decent in terms of power output and a strong, adjustable fiberglass shaft allows proper depth placement in all sorts of water conditions.
It has 8 speeds and a telescopic, ergonomic handle that is easy to use. These features give you full control over maneuvering your boat or kayak. Moreover, this powerful motor needs only one battery and includes a 5-Point LED Battery Meter which shows you the remaining charge.
This motor has been designed to suit saltwater use. Its hardware is made from stainless steel, zinc, and magnesium which means that the motor is suitable for fresh or saltwater kayaking.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 18 x 5 x 34 inches
- Weight: 18.5 pounds
- Power: 36lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V battery required.
- Manufacturer: Newport
Pros:
- Easy to mount and use.
- Reasonably quiet.
- Can be used in both salt and freshwater.
- Long battery life.
Cons:
- Not suited for continuous max speed mode.
Why We Recommend It:
We were quite impressed by both the speed and the strength of this motor. It has 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds, so you can easily control the speed of your kayak at all times. Also, the motor is pretty quiet, and won’t spook away fish.
It doesn’t take much trouble to install and mount this motor on your kayak, which is a bonus. Most importantly, you can use it for both salt and freshwater boating/fishing. Overall, this is the best transom mount trolling motor and we’re sure you will love it too!
02. Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor (Runner Up)
Want a kayak fishing trolling motor that handles your boating needs too? This Endura model includes a telescoping tiller that makes operating the motor even easier than before! It also has a sturdy 10-position bracket with a quick-release lever lock made with reinforced material making it resistant to warping or breaking.
The motor has 5 speeds and a power prop to push through heavy vegetation. But what is striking is the near-indestructible composite shaft. This is extremely durable and will last a lifetime, making sure you get your money’s worth.
If you’ve seen Minn Kota Riptide 45 reviews, you might have noticed that both models function smoothly and quickly, cutting through the water without making much noise. It is stealthily powerful and the output is impressive for its small size.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 42.38 x 5.38 x 16.25 inches
- Weight: 15 Pounds
- Power: 40lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V battery required
- Manufacturer: Minn Kota
Pros:
- Not too noisy.
- The shaft is indestructible.
- Decent power output.
- Sturdy and reliable.
Cons:
- The shaft is unsealed which causes water to enter the motor.
Why We Recommend It:
This trolling motor is a great option for smaller boats. It is also pretty affordable and is perfect for a 14ft. boat or kayak. We also loved how the battery lasted for ages and the motor doesn’t make any noise, making it perfect for fishing trips.
It also lets you back troll easily, allowing you to precisely steer your kayak wherever you want it to go. This motor gives you immediate responses to your boating or fishing instincts and is extremely reliable, so it is a good choice for people who are experimenting with kayaking.
03. Newport Vessels Kayak Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor (Best All-Around)
Need a trolling motor for kayak saltwater fishing that has a little more power? It has a 24-inch shaft which gives you a lifetime of solid performance and lets you choose between 36 and 55lbs of thrust.
Like our previous entries, it has 8 speeds that give you total control of your kayaking ride. Because it is made of non-reactive metals, it is suited to saltwater fishing and won’t corrode at all.
This makes it one of the best fishing kayaks with a trolling motor, especially since it includes long battery cables which result in easy battery placement for the best weight distribution. There is also a 2-year warranty that will help you in case of any issue with the motor.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 40.4 x 19.6 x 6.3 inches
- Weight: 23 Pounds
- Power: 36/55lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V battery required
- Manufacturer: Newport
Pros:
- Long battery life.
- Easy to install.
- Adequate thrust.
- The tilt feature uses a more convenient lever.
Cons:
- The battery gauge is unreliable.
Why We Recommend It:
This is without a doubt, the best 55lb thrust trolling motor. Whether you use it for fishing or ordinary boating, it will do a great job of steering your kayak. It is very sturdy and durable and won’t rust or corrode in saltwater conditions.
Worried about your motor’s charge running out while you’re out kayaking? The battery has a very long runtime and lasts for ages.
The motor is also easy to mount and runs pretty quietly. As a result, it is one of the smoothest motors for fishing expeditions.
04. WaterSnake 12V Saltwater Transom Mount Trolling Motor Kayak (Lightweight and Reliable)
If you’ve been looking for a small trolling motor for a kayak, you’ve come to the right place. Small but powerful, this motor gives you 24 pounds of thrust and has a refreshingly simple design.
Because of its small size, the Water Snake trolling motor for a kayak is best suited for smaller vessels, dinghies, and canoes. It has simple controls, one for high and low speed, a forward and reverse switch, and a telescopic handle for easy steering.
It is also very versatile and is compatible with many different kayak models. There is an optional bracket for more kayak trolling motor mount options.
The adjustable transom makes fitting the mount much simpler. The motor can hold its own against strong currents and is just perfect for kayaks on the smaller side.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 32.9 x 12.9 x 6.8 inches
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Power: 24lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V battery required
- Manufacturer: Watersnake
Pros:
- Versatile and compatible with many different vessels.
- Lightweight and compact motor.
- Easy to use and install.
- Simple design and options.
Cons:
- The long bolt that secures the bracket to the base is loose.
Why We Recommend It:
It can be difficult to find a good motor for smaller kayaks and canoes. Some are too strong and difficult to handle while others barely have any thrust. This one hits the sweet spot and has just the right amount of force.
Although it is small and lightweight, it packs a decent, reliable amount of power. Mounting it onto your transom is a simple enough affair and won’t take an expert to get the job done.
It is also known as the Hobie kayak trolling motor as it works so well in a Hobie Mirage Tandem Island kayak.
05. Brocraft Deck Mount Trolling Motor Bracket (Best Budget Pick)
Want a kayak with a trolling motor for sale? We’ve got something even better: a super affordable, high quality trolling motor that works with lots of different kayaks, boats, and canoes!
It is a clamp-on type electric trolling motor that makes it a universal motor for many different kinds of vessels. It is pretty durable and is constructed from aluminum and black nylon.
Moreover, it is quite versatile as you can easily remove the motor if you want to paddle your kayak instead.
This motor is meant for electric trolling only. In other words, it isn’t supposed to be used as an outboard engine for any size kayak or boat.
The kayak trolling motor mount gives an output of 36 pounds, making it ideal for the best trolling motors for a 12-foot aluminum boat.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 5 7/8 x 3 ¾ inches
- Weight: 3 Pounds
- Power: 36lbs
- Batteries: NA
- Manufacturer: Brocraft
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Simple and streamlined construction.
- Versatile and easy to mount/remove.
- Sturdy and durable.
Cons:
- Can snap under bad weather conditions.
Why We Recommend It:
If you want an affordable trolling motor mount and don’t want to go through the trouble of making a homemade kayak trolling motor mount from scratch, this will be perfect for you.
It is pretty light and compact and will be easy to use. Furthermore, it can handle motors with thrust up to 36lbs.
This is specifically meant for transom trolling motors and not outboard ones. All in all, it is a dependable, budget-friendly option.
06. Newport Vessels Electric Kayak Trolling Motor (Best for Fishing)
If you are an avid fisher or an angler by profession, this trolling motor and mount combo will be perfect for you. It produces 55lbs of thrust and is quite powerful, making it perfect when you go angling for bigger fish.
Moreover, the ultra-efficient motor lets you fish for longer in both salt and freshwater. It is high-quality and dependable, making it a favorite among engine mount trolling motor review lists.
We also liked this because its performance makes it the best trolling motor for a tandem kayak.
It securely attaches the trolling motor to the mount and the mount to your kayak. It is easy to attach or outfit to your kayak and takes only 30 seconds to remove. This makes it easy to switch to paddling if you wish to do so.
Except for the battery, all the other hardware is included with the motor and mount. Installing a motor on your kayak has never been easier!
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 40 x 19.75 x 6.5 inches
- Weight: 23lbs
- Power: 55lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V Battery
- Manufacturer: Newport Vessels
Pros:
- Powerful and efficient motor.
- Good value for money.
- Long-lasting and durable.
- Easy to install and remove.
Cons:
- The mount causes a lot of flex in the motor.
Why We Recommend It:
If you take your fishing seriously, a small and lightweight motor won’t do you any good. This trolling motor packs just the right amount of thrust needed for a regular-sized fishing kayak.
It combines power and a relatively noiseless operation so that your boat won’t scare away the fish.
Moreover, the fact that it comes with a mount makes it even better. It also helps you save money as you get all the necessary hardware needed to install the mount, including battery cables.
In short, this motor will enhance your fishing experience and take it to the next level.
07. Newport Vessels X-Series Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor (High-Quality Pick)
The quality of this trolling motor will knock your socks off! Long-lasting, quiet, and efficient; you will love how well it works.
The motor can run for a long time without overheating or making much noise. Because of this, it is a good choice to use when fishing. It has a super-strong 36-inch shaft made of composite fiberglass and can handle all water conditions.
The ergonomic handle lets you steer the kayak with complete control, and also has 8 different speeds and a 30-degree adjustable control head. This will give you the smoothest ride ever!
Moreover, this motor is designed to be saltwater-compatible and won’t rust or corrode.
Also, the kayak trolling motor battery is a 12V Marine Battery which isn’t included. There is also a 10-point LED battery meter that lets you know the exact amount of charge remaining.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 18 x 5 x 42 inches
- Weight: 21lbs
- Power: 40lb
- Batteries: 1 12V Marine Battery
- Manufacturer: Newport Vessels
Pros:
- Very sturdy and durable.
- Can be used for heavy-duty fishing trips.
- Long battery life.
- Great value for money.
Cons:
- Not as quiet as some of the other motors.
Why We Recommend It:
Lots of trolling motors can cause problems because their battery runs out of charge relatively quickly. Others cannot hold up in saltwater conditions.
This particular motor hits the bullseye on both these issues, as it has a long charge life and is very durable. No matter how many times you take your kayak out fishing in saltwater, the motor won’t corrode or break down.
We were also impressed with the smooth steering controls, which gives you complete coordination when operating your kayak. You certainly won’t regret getting this motor for your saltwater kayaking exploits!
08. Minn Kota Traxxis Transom Mount Trolling Motor (Durable Design)
Need a motor that will let you fish for hours and hours on the end? This trolling motor is all about endurance and long-lasting durability.
If you’ve seen any Island Hopper trolling motor review, and want a similar but stronger model, this is the one you need to get.
The core of its strength comes from the indestructible shaft which can hold up even after rough use and extreme weather conditions. Moreover, it comes with a lifetime guarantee. The Traxxis motor is a powerhouse, with amazing speed and power.
Also, it comes with a Digital Maximizer which increases the battery life of the motor. The versatile steering tension control brings absolute control of your kayak right to your fingertips.
Furthermore, this trolling motor is easy to use and install. The simple mechanism and durable design also enable easy stowing and steering.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 50 x 17.75 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 24 Pounds
- Power: 45lbs
- Batteries: 1 12V Battery Needed
- Manufacturer: Minn Kota
Pros:
- Precise steering.
- Long-lasting and indestructible shaft.
- Digital maximizer lengthens battery life.
- Allows for instant back trolling.
Cons:
- Rather expensive.
Why We Recommend It:
If you’re sick of replacing or repairing your trolling motors, this sturdy unit will be a welcome relief. This motor provides adequate thrust which is great for fishing and also kayaking for leisure.
It is super helpful for longer fishing trips as the digital maximizer extends the batteries’ charge. Although it is on the pricier side, its sturdiness and long-lasting design make it well worth the money.
It also gives you excellent control over your steering, which makes it a good choice for new or inexperienced kayakers.
09. Newport Vessels Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor (Quietest Model)
Worried about spooking fish with the sound of your motor? This ultra-quiet trolling motor is super powerful and will make your fishing trips much better.
This motor is on the larger side and has 86lbs of thrust, making it ideal for slightly larger canoes and kayaks. The 40-inch fiberglass is extremely strong and resistant to bending, breaking, or snapping, even in extreme weather conditions.
Between the thrust of the motor and the noiseless functioning, it is great for fishing in deep and shallow waters. The motor has 8 speeds and a 6-inch telescopic handle, which gives you more control when steering or maneuvering your kayak.
The components of the motor are made of stainless steel, which makes it resistant to rusting. As a result, this motor is suited for both salt and freshwater kayaking.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 55 x 20 x 6 inches
- Weight: 14.06 Kilograms
- Power: 86lb
- Batteries: 1 12V Battery Needed
- Manufacturer: Newport Vessels
Pros:
- Easy to use and install.
- Quiet.
- Sturdy and durable.
- Good value for money.
Cons:
- Plastic control gears have to be handled carefully.
Why We Recommend It:
We were impressed by how quietly this motor functions, while being so powerful. It is reasonably sturdy and works well for a long time, so you will get your money’s worth. Installing and removing the motor is easy and fairly straightforward.
As the control handles can be a little stiff, this motor is best suited for more experienced anglers. All in all, it is a decent trolling motor and great for fishing and kayak trips.
10. 8-Speed Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor (High Performance)
If you aren’t too fussy about noise or aesthetics, you will enjoy the reliable performance this trolling motor has to offer. If you’ve checked out any Haswing trolling motor review, you will have noticed that the two have pretty similar designs.
This motor is aimed at small and average-sized kayaks as the motor is pretty small in size. The shaft is made from composite fiberglass, while the bracket is made from high-strength nylon, ensuring strength and resilience.
Although it is small, the power output of this motor is impressive-it has a thrust of 55lbs. The motor is also constructed to hold up in saltwater without getting rusted. Moreover, there is a sturdy aluminum head that works as a handle for smooth steering.
It has a total of 8 steering speeds and the additional hardware is also made from stainless steel which makes it even stronger saltwater.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 51.18 x 6.69 x 18.9 inches
- Weight: 20lbs
- Power: 55lb
- Batteries: 1 12V Battery Needed
- Manufacturer: U-BCOO
Pros:
- Compact and streamlined.
- Long-lasting and reliable.
- High-quality components.
- Excellent maneuvering control.
Cons:
- The motor vibrates a lot.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a good basic level motor which is perfect for people experimenting with their kayaks and motors. The unit itself is small but strong and long-lasting. We liked how it was made from aluminum and stainless steel, making it perfect for salt and freshwater use.
Whether you want the option of a more hands-free kayaking experience, or you need it for angling or fishing purposes; this motor will be dependable and easy to use.
11. Brocraft Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Universal & Rocket Launcher Rod Holder (Solid Functionality)
Need a replacement for your trolling motor’s mount? This one comes with the whole package, including a rod holder for two launch rockets.
The mount itself is adjustable so it can fit different hull lengths. Also, the two-sided aluminum base can fit different angles, which gives you the freedom to place it in various places on the kayak. Besides this, the mount is very strong and can hold the heaviest of motors up to 35lbs of thrust.
Moreover, it is pretty versatile and can be used for both gas-powered and electric motors. We liked how it is easy to attach and remove from your kayak or boat.
It easily clamps and detaches from the gun-whales when needed, so it is great if you switch between your motor and paddles when kayaking.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 40 x 6 x 4 inches
- Weight: 7.1 Pounds
- Power: NA
- Batteries: NA
- Manufacturer: Brocraft
Pros:
- Quality material and construction.
- Easy to clamp and remove.
- Suits a variety of motors.
- Durable and sturdy.
Cons:
- The base of the mount needs to be stronger.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a decent trolling motor mount and will work on several different kayaks, canoe, and yacht models. It is also fairly lightweight, but can easily hold medium-power motors, both electric and gas-powered.
The adjustable feature means that it can fit on vessels with a great range of sizes. It is durable and dependable and is sure to last you for a long time.
12. Minn Kota Riptide Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor (Most Secure)
Don’t want a transom-mounted trolling motor? This bow-mounted motor is a nice alternative and works just as well as the more conventional transom-mounted ones!
The latch and door design make it easier to detach the motor and remove it. It also has a quick-lock feature that allows you to adjust depths quickly and securely and then locks it in place.
The motor also has blades that let your vessel cut through vegetation without draining the battery charge.
Also, the motor’s housing is coated with aluminum and then powder-painted to prevent oxidation and corroding. Like many other Minn Kota models, it also has a digital maximizer to prolong battery life.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: 60.98 x 8.35 x 2.25 inches
- Weight: 50 Pounds
- Power: 55lbs
- Batteries: 1 12-V Marine Battery
- Manufacturer: Minn Kota
Pros:
- Good speed control.
- Secure attachment to mount.
- Won’t rust or corrode.
Cons:
- Handles slip when turning.
- Loud and noisy.
Why We Recommend It:
This is a good choice if you don’t want a transom-mounted motor, as this one is meant to be mounted on the bow. It is a good and reliable option as the motor won’t rust and is fairly sturdy.
Best of all, it won’t shift or move at all, even in strong winds or stormy seas. If you don’t mind a bit of noise, you will enjoy using this motor.
Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Motors
Now that you know which trolling motors are worth getting, you need to figure out which one will be right for you. Here are a few things you should consider before buying a trolling motor for your kayak.
Motor Thrust:
The power output of your motor depends on the size of your kayak or vessel. The larger the boat, the greater thrust needed.
So, if you have a 12-foot kayak, you will need at least 30lbs of thrust to propel your kayak. In that case, you should go for the Newport Vessels Kayak Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor.
For a smaller kayak, a motor like the Watersnake 12V Saltwater Transom Mount Trolling Motor Kayak will be strong enough.
On the other hand, if you have a larger boat, the Newport Vessels Kayak Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor will be a better choice.
Saltwater or Freshwater Use:
A motor meant for freshwater application will rust after a few trips in saltwater. If you plan on taking your kayak to freshwater locations only, a motor like the Watersnake Tracer Transom-Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor will be a safer option.
But if you go fishing in a saltwater location, the Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor will have you covered. Some motors like the Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor work well in both conditions.
Transom vs Bow Mounted:
Most kayaks need a transom-mounted trolling motor as they can be used while the fisherman is in it. Good transom-mounted motors include the Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor and Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor.
Bow-mounted motors are generally designed for medium-sized boats and are not usually used with kayaks.
How to Set Up a Trolling Motor on Your Kayak
Never mounted a trolling motor on your kayak before? We’ll show you how to position a transom-mounted trolling motor correctly in a few simple steps:
- First, open the mounting clamps on the bracket. Most transom-mounted trolling motors have clamps built into the mounting bracket that holds the motor in place. To open these clamps, twist them counterclockwise.
- Then, position the motor over the transom. You should place the motor as close to the center of the stern as possible. Transom-mounted trolling motors should be positioned so that the middle of the motor section is at least 9 inches underwater when the motor is running.
This is done to prevent the propeller from breaking the water’s surface, as this makes a lot of noise which scares the fish. Also, the top of the mounting bracket should be in contact with the top of the stern.
- Finally, tighten the clamps. Turn the clamps clockwise as far as possible. This will stop the motor’s vibration from shaking it loose from the mount.
Maintaining a Trolling Motor on Your Kayak
No matter how durable your trolling motor is, it will need regular maintenance and upkeep to keep it operating properly. With a little bit of extra care, you will have a motor that runs for years without any issues.
Inspect Your Trolling Motor Prop Regularly:
A close checkup of your trolling motor (twice a week) will go a long way. Look carefully for cracks, dents, or bends.
Your trolling props need replacing if you find any cracks. This kind of damage comes from the prop hitting underwater debris, and can be dangerous if left unchecked.
Keep Tabs on the Wires and Cables on Your Trolling Motor:
All the cables and wires need frequent and close inspection. Frays, tangles, and cuts will need instant attention. Torn or frayed wires need replacing.
You should also keep an eye on both the battery terminal and wire connections. Corrosion must be fixed with a wire battery brush.
Keep Your Trolling Motor Clean:
The exterior or housing of your trolling motor unit needs to be thoroughly cleaned regularly. This is because mildew and grime can build up pretty quickly.
You should use water and some kind of mild soap or detergent to clean the unit’s exterior. After it has dried, spray a thin layer of silicone across the shaft, and wipe off the excess.
The spray makes sure the shaft can move smoothly in the water.
FAQs
Still have questions? We’ll answer them right here!
01. Can You Recommend the Best Trolling Motors for a Kayak?
The best trolling motor for a kayak depends on the size of your kayak and its purpose. However, as a rule of thumb, you can’t go wrong with the Newport Vessels NV-Series Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor and Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor models.
02. Can I Put a Trolling Motor on Any Kayak?
As long as you have the a mount and mounting kit, you can place a trolling motor on almost every kayak out there.
03. What Sort of Battery is the Best for a Trolling Motor?
There are two kinds of deep-cycle 12-volt batteries that experts suggest for use with trolling motors. They are Lead Acid Wet-Cell & AGM Batteries.
Deep-cycle batteries are meant to discharge smaller amounts of current over a longer time period. If you’re looking for batteries, this one is a good place to start.
04. When Should I Replace My Trolling Motor Battery?
Most trolling motor batteries last for 2 years. However, deep-cycle batteries work for 3-4 years before they need to be replaced.
05. Can a Car Battery be Used as a Trolling Motor Battery?
Yes, you can. Any 12-Volt car battery can be used with your trolling motor. However, it will have a much shorter lifespan than a marine battery specifically meant for trolling motors.
06. How Long Can I Run a 12V Battery on My Trolling Motor?
The larger the power rating of your battery, the longer it will run between charging. For example, a 100 amp/hour rated battery will run for 5 hours before running out.
However, this also depends on the external conditions. If your kayak needs to cut through debris or vegetation in the water, it will run out of charge much faster.
To Sum It Up
A trolling motor will make your kayaking experience much more fun, especially if you enjoy fishing. Using a kayak trolling motor will give your arms a rest when you get tired of paddling, or even leave your hands free to catch the big fish you’ve been eyeing.
The best trolling motor for kayak will last for a long time without needing replacing, work quietly, and is easy to clamp and remove.
All the entries in this list will do what you want them to so what are you waiting for? Get the trolling motor you need and hit the waves like there’s no tomorrow!
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