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10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 80 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Saltwater

The Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a robust trolling motor designed for serious anglers looking for reliability and advanced features. With an 80 lb. thrust and a 60-inch shaft, this motor is ideal for heavier boats. Its 24-volt electric engine ensures strong performance and efficiency.

One standout feature is the advanced GPS trolling system, which offers precise navigation, speed control, and the ability to hold your position with Spot-Lock. This is perfect for maintaining your position over productive fishing spots without constant manual adjustments. The Drift Mode is a handy addition, allowing automatic speed and course control, which is great in variable water conditions. The Digital Maximizer is another highlight, extending battery life significantly by providing only the necessary power, ensuring you can fish all day long without worrying about running out of battery.

The indestructible composite shaft, guaranteed for life, adds to the motor's durability, making it a long-term investment. However, it does come with a few drawbacks. The 24-volt system might require dual battery setups, which can be more cumbersome and expensive than a single 12-volt system. At 23.59 kilograms, it's relatively heavy, which may be a consideration for some users when mounting or transporting the motor. Additionally, while loaded with features, the Riptide Terrova is positioned at a higher price point, which might be a barrier for some budget-conscious buyers.

In summary, the Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a feature-rich, durable trolling motor suited for advanced anglers who value top-notch navigation and extended battery life but may require a larger budget and dual battery setup.

#2

Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 80 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Freshwater

Rating
8.8
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
94 reviews

Control Type
The autopilot and cruise control features make fishing much easier.
Mounting Location
Highly recommend getting a lock for the floor mount before installing the floor plate.

The Minn Kota 1358380 Terrova is an electric trolling motor designed with serious anglers in mind. With 80 lb. of thrust and a 60" shaft, it provides ample power for various fishing conditions, making it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS Trolling System, which includes Spot-Lock, allowing you to stay on your fishing spot with excellent accuracy without needing to constantly adjust the motor. The wireless remote control is user-friendly, letting you navigate and control the motor effortlessly from a distance.

Another major advantage is the Digital Maximizer technology, which helps extend battery life significantly, offering up to five times longer run time on a single charge. This means you can fish longer without worrying about draining your battery. The Weedless Wedge 2 prop is also effective, designed to cut through weeds without using too much power, which enhances efficiency.

On the downside, the motor's weight at 63 pounds can be cumbersome for some users, especially during manual transportation. Additionally, while the advanced features are great for experienced users, they may overwhelm beginners who are not familiar with high-tech equipment. The initial price point might also be a consideration, as it is on the higher end of the market, which may not be suitable for casual anglers. The product includes a three-year warranty upon registration, addressing some concerns about the durability of electronic components in harsh marine environments. The Minn Kota Terrova is a robust and feature-rich trolling motor ideal for passionate anglers who value functionality and efficiency, but it might be more than what a novice fisherman needs.

Rating
8.8
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
94 reviews

Control Type
The autopilot and cruise control features make fishing much easier.
Mounting Location
Highly recommend getting a lock for the floor mount before installing the floor plate.
#3

Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor with FreeSteer Joystick Remote, Wireless Foot Pedal, HDI Nosecone

Rating
8.2
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
3 reviews

Thrust
The motor delivers strong, smooth performance even in choppy lake conditions, proving its reliability on the water.
Control Type
The wireless foot pedal is a game changer, offering hands-free control that truly elevates the fishing experience.

The Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor is a solid choice for anglers looking for powerful and precise control on freshwater boats. Its brushless motor offers excellent thrust and runs quietly on 24V or 36V, which means you get strong, smooth performance without disturbing the water too much. The 72-inch shaft length is good for medium to larger boats, providing plenty of clearance in various water conditions.

One of the standout features is the FreeSteer joystick remote with a color LCD, allowing easy and intuitive steering. Additionally, the wireless foot pedal offers flexible, hands-free control, which is great for multitasking while fishing. The HDI nosecone helps with improved positioning accuracy, thanks to built-in GPS technology, making it easier to hold your boat steady or follow precise routes. The motor weighs about 74 pounds, so it may be a bit heavy for those who want a very lightweight setup or need to frequently remove the motor. The carbon-fiber infused composite materials make it durable yet not overly bulky.

This motor is designed for serious freshwater fishermen who value power, precision, and versatile control options, though it might be more than casual or budget-conscious users require.

Rating
8.2
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
3 reviews

Thrust
The motor delivers strong, smooth performance even in choppy lake conditions, proving its reliability on the water.
Control Type
The wireless foot pedal is a game changer, offering hands-free control that truly elevates the fishing experience.

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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