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When you are out fishing, the last thing you want is to get stuck in a situation where your trolling motor dies. You may need to find a solution or else you may be left stranded with no way of getting back home.
As a fisherman, the last thing you want is to get stuck in an inconvenient, or possibly even dangerous situation where your trolling motor dies. If this happens, it can be tricky to find help to get home and, of course, there's the frustration of having to stop fishing when, usually, the fish are starting to bite.
Like most things when it comes to buying a new trolling motor, there are two main options: cheap and expensive.
Some guys I know think that because cheaper motors are more likely to have problems and are more likely to fail than higher-end models, they should buy an affordable option from a brand they know works well. However, others disagree with this thinking because they believe that expensive units also break down over time so it's cheaper to buy several low-end models and replace them when they go kaput! But who is right? And if you are looking to buy a saltwater trolling motor then which one should you buy?
Well, we're about to find out....
The best thing to do when buying any product or service is thorough research so as not to waste money on something that won’t serve your needs. But, there's a lot of noise out there and thousands of competing products and vendors all vying for your money. So, it pays to get an independent expert's advice - and that's where I come in,
So, in this guide, I am going to outline what I believe are the 5 best saltwater trolling motors on the market today.
I've looked at a number of factors including price, reliability, durability, and warranty. So, if you want to get the right motor for your needs and save some money into the bargain then please, read on.
If, however, you'd rather be fishing than reading, then here are my top 5 picks.
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | "Newport Vessels L-Series 62lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator (40"" Shaft)" (23M1000097) | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30" Shaft (23M1000203) | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | AQUOS Haswing Black 12V 55LBS 54inch Bow Mount Trolling Motor with Wireless Remote Control, Quick Release Bracket for Inflatable Boat Kayak Bass Boat Aluminum Boat Fishing, Freshwater/Saltwater Use | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Minn Kota 1363420 Riptide SM 55 Trolling Motor - 42" Shaft, 5-Speed | Prime | Buy Now | |
 | MINN-KOTA Minn Kota PowerDrive 70/US2 Trolling Motor w/i-Pilot & Bluetooth - 24V-70lb-60" / 1358761 / | Prime | Buy Now |
A saltwater trolling motor is an outboard engine that's mounted on the stern of your boat. These motors are ideal for fishing in salt water since they can handle the harsh elements and provide plenty of power to get through choppy waters.
The engine is used to propel the boat while fishing, and it's typically found in larger boats. Saltwater trolling motors are usually more powerful than freshwater versions. In some cases, they can be over twice as powerful as a freshwater motor of the same size.
The first and most common issue that you can experience when it comes to the use of a trolling motor is its inability to run. This may be caused by several factors, including a faulty battery or even a worn-out propeller.
When using your boat’s trolling motor, there are some things that you should remember in order for it to work perfectly all the time. For instance, if you have more than one trolling motor on board, make sure that they are all connected properly so as not to create any confusion in operation. Also, avoid letting them get wet because this might damage their internal parts and prevent them from working well.
If your boat has two or more motors installed, then make sure that they are both turned off before connecting them together via an appropriate cable connection tool (such as those found at West Marine). You should also check if the cables themselves aren’t damaged before connecting them with other components onboard, such as batteries.
There are many reasons why you should buy a specially designed saltwater trolling motor over a freshwater one. Let's look at some of the main reasons and, in doing, so, we will start to discuss the differences between the 2 as well as some of the pros and cons.
In some transports such as gasoline-powered, motors serve as the primary source of propulsion. Trolling motor is built to fit & generate the propulsion power that is subsequently used to push the vessel forward.
In most other vessels, it serves as the secondary source of propulsion. In this capacity, it is always on standby and waiting for the primary source of propulsion to fail before taking over. Such are those battery-powered by a 12-volt deep cycle or marine battery charges or electricity.
The motor may also be engaged in such a way as to vary the speed of travels. This happens mainly by varying the pace of the motions of the blades that are attached to the motor itself. In so doing, it helps to relieve pressure on the braking mechanism.
Other than merely generating the torque, it may also be used to determine the torque levels. This happens when it is appropriately engaged and operated. With regards to this, it also serves to keep the consumption of fuel to levels that are absolutely manageable.
Lastly, these motors may also serve to haul the cargo. The strength they generate is what makes them quite capable of hauling the cargo as you move along. This means you have to be sensitive to the kind of motor you choose for the job.
Ok, now that we understand the pros and cons, let's get down to business. What are the best saltwater trolling motors on the market right now? Well, here are my top 10 picks - if you would like more information or if you have your own suggestion, why not get in touch.
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Looking for the most powerful trolling motor for your saltwater? Place your hands on this newport vessels trolling motor model which resistant to corrosion and longer in life. You will not really have to spend too much of your money managing it.
The X-Series is a 55-pound thrust, 36-inch composite fiberglass shaft with a 30 degree adjustable head. The transom mount design allows for easy installation on your boat. This trolling motor also has an EZ Twist knob that makes it easy to adjust the thrust angle and direction of the propeller when you are out on the water. It is ideal for small boats weighing less than 3,000 pounds and up to 20 feet in length. This trolling motor features a stainless steel propeller
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Also Read : Best Hydrofoils For Outboard Motor
Step on the Ultrex foot pedal and feel what Power Steering does to a trolling motor. Then tap the Spot-Lock button to stay on a fishing spot automatically. Only Ultrex combines the most responsive, intuitive steering ever with GPS-powered automatic boat control. The only thing we didn't do to it, is compromise.
It comes in some rugged construction. Its rugged construction also makes it deliver the power that is necessary to propel your vessel smoothly on the water. This also yields some improved performance.
The handle comes in next. It is, on the whole, easier to handle and engage. These handles complement the fall-away ramps which let you embark and disembark the vessel with ease.
To steer the vessel, you will have to make do with the newly redesigned foot pedal. It is easier to engage as it demands limited effort and attention on your part. By using it, you will enjoy some added thrill.
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Looking for a motor for whole day backup of your fishing boats? Such a motor has to be cool enough not to overheat even when subjected to the intense heat from the sun. We ask that you try this out.
Both its telescoping handle that measures 6 inches and the control box are tilt adjustable. Courtesy of this feature, you will be able to adjust the handles and the box to make your steering as comfortable as can be.
It varies speed levels to around eight positions. These are broken to 3 reverse speeds and 5 forward speeds respectively. They jointly accrue some smooth and easy rides as you move along.
Generating the thrust is the 3-blade propeller. Its diameter is 10 inches and manages to bring forth some optimal performance indeed. Your rides will never be the same again if you place your bet on it.
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Frequent fishing in sea waters come with the dangers of increased corrosion of the vessels. To counter this problem, it is important that you choose one whose anti-corrosive properties are topnotch.
An indestructible composite shaft exists to allow for easy mounting and installation. Being strong and durable, this shaft is unlikely to bend, kink, break, or corrode anyhow. It hence yields long-term performance.
Next comes in a lever lock bracket. This one is rugged and contains none positions for mounting. With a quick-release lever, it provides the stability needed to handle repeated chores and performances well.
All factors considered, this motor comes in a design that is pretty easy to use. Even persons who lack the necessary muscle power or technical expertise will find it a very great companion indeed.
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Also Read: Boat Repair Near Me
Seeking a motor solely for saltwater use? You have a companion in this particular motor. By its design and makeup, this motor is all you may need for fishing in waters that are not too salty.
It is not uncommon to confront some turbulent winds while fishing. The manufacturers of this motor understand this fact too well. That is why they have fitted the patented variable-ratio steering mechanism to aid with controls.
A food control unit also comes along in this motor. Its aim basically is to help you in targeting the bigger catches for your maximum efficiency. It has an LED steering indicator to make your fishing even more convenient.
All the crucial parts and components of this motor are made of tough and durable parts. They are the stainless steel and the rigid aircraft-grade aluminum respectively. These bring down your costs of repairs.
Discover Other Motorguide Saltwater Trolling Motors Here
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If your water vessels are smaller like the newport vessels inflatable boats, small dinghies, or the kayaks, you want a similarly less but powerful motor like this one. Do consider reading our watersnake trolling motor review because it has the bare minimum features needful for the job.
This motor comes along with all the control mechanisms you may seek. These are the high-speed, low-speed, and the forward and reverse switches. A stow-away tiller handle also exists for your carrying.
You may also use this in the salty water. This is because its parts are non-corrosive and stand the test of time indeed. In the course of so doing, you will not have to worry too much too!
Providing the necessary propulsion force is the two-blade propeller. Other than merely providing the propulsion force, this one also deflects the weeds to allow for smooth sailing all along.
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Do you plan to go out in the open sea to catch fish? This is the trolling motor to fix to your vessel. It is extremely energetic and able to take on the harshest waves. Many past users have also found it reliable.
In all, this motor features some high levels of innovations. It is sleek, tough, and truly reliable in scope and stature. All these combine to make it truly reliable for use in the roughest of waters available.
Though powerful and strong, it operates pretty coolly. It is structured in such a way as to prevent overheating even when running for an extended amount of time. With quiet operations come added catch.
The blades of the motors are shaped in a swept-back flare design. They amplify the power output of the motors to make them more reliable. Moreover, they also chop and hack weeds which may be present along your paths.
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Never attempted to use these trolling motors before? This is the one we ask that you try out. It is the simplest to make do with and requires negligible effort on your part.
To mount this motor on your water vessel, you will make do with a durable Nylon mounting mechanism. This one measures 30 inches and adjusts to accommodate the various kinds of watercraft.
All its components are made of high quality and long-lasting materials. For this reason, the motor withstands the test of time not to mention handling many circumstances of use whether fresh or salty water.
To determine the depths of the water of your liking, you will use a fiberglass shaft. This one is full of strength and also adjusts easily when engaged. Your experience may never simpler and smoother without it.
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Have some goods to carry along with you? The trolling motor you choose has to be powerful enough to generate the torque sufficient for handling such kind of cargo. This best trolling motor for saltwater has the ability to handle a whopping 2 tons of cargo.
At its core is the brushless electric motor. It is this component that generates the torque needed to power the boat and haul the cargo. The motor is so powerful as to handle some two tons.
Compared to many other motors, this one boasts of an energy efficiency rating of around 65%. It is in fact much better than the gasoline counterparts. Save yourself some time and money by placing your bet on it.
Generally, this motor is easier to mount thanks to the reliable mounting mechanism. The mechanism is made of the shafts and fasteners derived from 304 stainless steel and an aluminum transom mount.
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Intending to fish in strong, turbulent, windy and big waters? You want a motor that is super strong and powerful like this one. It generates some powerful thrust that takes on such kinds of waters well.
You may mount this motor on many kinds of relevant water boats. This stems from its 40-inch fiberglass composite shaft that extends to fit all kinds of boats. It is also strong enough to yield the reliability necessary.
At its core is the stainless steel hardware. This one is strong and sturdy enough to yield the support and longevity needed to fish with the utmost peace of mind. Moreover, it works well in salt and freshwater.
Lastly comes the 10-point LED battery life meter. As you may have already guessed, this one gives off the charge levels immediately to let you know when to quit fishing and return to the shore.
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You may not know it, but there are a lot of different brands that make these motors. However, some stand out from the rest as being superior in quality and design to others. These top 5 best-selling brands have been tested for their durability:
Newport Vessels is a company that specializes in creating products that inspire and enable lovers of water to experience life well while on the go. The company was founded back in 2008, and it has been operating from California up until now. Newport Vessels offers electric trolling motors, marine accessories, as well as various water equipment for sale.
If you are an aspiring fisherman, you have the Motorguide brand for your consideration. It is manufactured for the fishermen like you. The products are generally tough, powerful and reliable for long term use.
This company came to be in 1939 and has since manufactured and released many vehicles. All its vehicles are purpose-driven, yield awesome reliability, and have some intentional features. They jointly keep the fishermen longer in water to catch more fish.
Founded as recently as 2006, this company has indeed made and sold much marine equipment. Examples of these include anglers, kayaks, boats, and machines. Its range of products is mostly famed for their agility and reliability for long-term use.
Of particular is the transom mount motors. The company has perfected the art of making such mounts with ruthless efficiency. They feature some high-quality components which in turn make them last longer than usual.
Looking for some brushless electric motors? Think Caroute Trolling Motor! The company adopts the optimized brushless motor designs to make its range of products. It is this approach that has contributed to the uniqueness of the company and distinguished it from competition altogether.
Its motor runs pretty high in efficiency and yield some power output and trust which others can barely dream of. These notwithstanding, the products consume less power input and are as such, more efficient than their peers.
Closing the list of the top brands is the Minn Kota. This brand is generally famed for toughness. They are indeed the most innovative of all that is in existence today. They are coincidentally the fastest and quietest of all.
Their ability to reach the deepest parts of a water body conveniently also adds to their uniqueness. Having been operating continually since 1934, this company also boasts of enough experience to take on whichever tasks you might want them with ease.Lte us see a minn kota endura c2 model video review.
There are three main kinds of, These are explained hereunder:
As the name implies, these ones mount at the bow of the fishing boat. It is subsequently smooth and easily controlled by the foot pedal or hand tiller. This kind of motor requires plenty of space to mount and is therefore not so convenient a product to make do with.
On the flip side, it is cheaper to come by. That is why you will find it in many of the yachts you come across. Also, they are simpler to install and subsequently handle. Yet again, this makes them quite popular with persons who lack the necessary skill.
Next comes the transom mount trolling motors. As the name suggests, the mount attaches to transom of a water vessel. To do this, you have to make use of the C clamp. Like the bow motors, they are also operable via the hand tiller.
Compared to the bow-mount however, they are simpler and less expensive. Their main downside, however, it is the fact that they are not tough enough to yield the reliability needed for long0term applications.
Lastly comes the remote-controlled trolling motors. These are either the bow or the transom mount motors. In addition, they have the added benefit of being able to control from a remote location typically by use of some special apparatus.
Some even have auto pilot link control mechanisms. This one takes the need to constantly monitor and engage the vessel away from you. You will find them in most modern vessels. Owing to their need for excess expertise, they are beyond the reach of many.
You have to take care of a number of issues to find out the perfect motor for your use. The following are the top issues to take care of:
First and foremost, you should be concerned about the pricing of the motor. Finding the best electric fishing motor for the money ought not to be too much of a hassle. You want to keep your expenditure within the safest and manageable limits. Compare prices of the various vessels to make the right choice.Make sure you know the type freshwater and saltwater.
This refers to the maximum distance which the motor can get to per charge. It determines just how long you might be out in the water. You definitely want a motor whose range is longest to guarantee a longer stay and with it, improved chances of making a good catch.
Motors come in various shades and sizes. These variations determine how easy or difficult they could be to make do with. For your own convenience, you want a motor which you can easily make use of. This can only happen if your factor your own expertise while searching for the right machine.
If you plan to go out fishing in salty water, the motor you choose has to be optimized for brackish water as well. Of particular importance is the fact that it ought to be highly resistant to corrosion and other potential agents of damages. Read the labels carefully to ascertain this parameter before you set out.
The amount of electrical power the motor uses per unit time and the amount of power it yields also matter. To spare yourself hefty operational expense you want a motor that consumes the least amounts of electrical energy yet yields the highest possible returns. Check out the energy efficiency ratings of the saltwater trolling motor reviews you have in mind for a feasible way forward.
How the motor mounts on the boat also count. A good motor has to be easy to mount. The manufacturer must also specify where exactly the motor mounts on your vessel. This is to avoid any ambiguities which might impede your smooth operations of the gadget thereafter. You too have to be familiar with the mounting mechanism.
You have to factor your own technical expertise versus the controls of the motor you have in mind. To be guaranteed smooth controls, later on, you have to see to it that you have the necessary technical expertise needed to manage that motor which you have in mind. Read the manual carefully also to go about this issue well.
The length of the shaft also determines to a large extent the manner in which the motor is likely to mount. A longer shaft length will usually mean great variability or adjustability of the motor when installed. It is in your best interest to prioritize it over and above those which are shorter.
Lastly comes the power consumption options. A good motor for the money has to be able to draw its power from various sources. Examples of these are gas, electricity, battery, and solar. You want to experience the most freedom of use in your pursuit of your water-based activity. Be mindful of the ratings as well.
Needless to say, you will often have to maintain your motor. This is because the machine sustains some damages from time to time in the course of use. To be guaranteed some great job, you want to adhere to some tips. Below are the hottest tips you have to adhere to:
After each use, wash and rinse your motor well. Use fresh water to do so. While at it, clear out any debris which may be present on the various parts. Do this more so for those that you use in the salty waters. Take care though that you interfere not with the protective coatings.
Other than the motor itself, you also have to pay some attention to the propeller. Inspect and clean it after every use. Pay keen attention to the blades as they will most likely accumulate and drag along some weeds. Use some sticks or brush to eliminate the weeds easily. Be careful not to damage the seals which might let in water.
Move on to inspect the prop nuts. Do this to the anode of the saltwater as well. Ensure that it is tightened well. You do not want to leave it loose as to inflict some permanent structural damages to your vessel. Check out for the abrasions and nicks on the blades. In case they exist, use some sandpaper to smooth them finely.
From time to time, lubricate the moving parts too! Pay some particular attention to the composite shaft. Use some coating aqueous-based silicone spray to do this job. In this way, you will get to facilitate the retraction and deployment of the surfaces. Finally, coat any parts of metal that are exposed using some light spray.
It is advisable that you disconnect the power when need be. These include when repairing parts, transporting the gadget, or taking the machine to the store. As you do so, look out for any corrosion, dirt, or issues in the battery terminals. If you find them, take the earliest opportunity to get rid of them using fine-grained sandpaper or emery cloth.
Lastly, you have to recharge the batteries. This has to happen at the earliest time possible. Preferably, it has to take place at such a time when you have completed using the battery. Before re-using the battery power after a prolonged duration of idleness, you have to charge it yet again. Chances are that it may lose some potency.
Many motors are designed to be upgraded in the course of time. Upgrading simply entails the improvements of the parts and components of the entire motor. This happens typically by fixing in place newer and added parts from time to time. These new parts have to be the latest in existence at any given time
Closely related to the above is the issue of attaching any extensions. Many motors accommodate different parts and components. These are designed to improve its range of functionality. Be on the lookout for any such items too. If and when they exist, make haste to attach them to your motor soonest possible.
Motors contain bearings which basically facilitate the moving parts. As part of good maintenance practice, it is in your best interest to check the bearings as well. You want to see to it that they are in the best shape and form all the time. Lubricate them too to add to their efficiency and minimize the friction levels.
Lastly, you want to put in place a maintenance schedule. This is a timetable whose aim is to offer you guidance on how to go about the issue of maintaining your motor. Adhere to the schedule faithfully to be able to do a better job on the whole.
- Yes or No! Some trolling motors are meant exclusively for use in freshwater. Others though may do well in both fresh and saltwater at the same time. It is hence incumbent upon you to ascertain whether the one you have in mind can work on both waters.
-. The materials that make them is the distinguishing characteristic. Freshwater motors are made of normal materials which bear almost no unique trait or feature. The case is however completely different from the saltwater motors.
They are made of materials that are resistant to corrosion and rust. This makes them better and more reliable at repelling rust and other agents of corrosion. On account of this, they also last longer than their ordinary counterparts.
- YES, it can! By its sheer construction and makeup, such a motor is capable of withstanding all the perils and agents of damages which are potentially brought about the freshwater. Examples of these include the corrosion, rust, and chipping away of the metallic parts and components.
- Most trolling motors have fixed top speeds. Unless otherwise specified, this is usually capped at 5 miles per hour irrespective of the thrust generated by the motor. Expect hence the 55-pound thrust not to yield or reach any further speed than this one.
- Assuming moderate use and with proper maintenance, a good trolling motor ought to last around 4 hours. The exact duration of use depends mainly on the ampere rating of the motor you have in mind. To find out how long yours is anticipated to last, divide the amperage rating by the current.
#What size trolling motor do I need for a 21 foot boat?
- 55-60 Pound Thrust Motor should be sufficient.
#How do you know what size trolling motor to get?
- First Of All, you need to know the boat length & load it carry on an average including gas & Other items.Based on this, you need to determine the capacity.
WOW! We have labored much indeed to showcase to you all that may be necessary to know about this boat gadget. It is now up to you to go ahead and make an appropriate decision of the right one for you. Doing so should not be too daunting a task now.
