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10 Best Canoe Trolling Motors 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 55 Lb. Thrust, 54 In. Shaft, Freshwater

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,137
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
121 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,137
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
121 reviews

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.
#2

Newport NV-Series 62lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator & 36" Shaft

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Control Type
Mount Type

Most important from
6828 reviews

Thrust
Delivers impressive speed and power, reaching up to 3.5 mph solo and over 4 mph with dual motors and heavy load.
Control Type
First gear is quite aggressive, making slow, quiet creeping difficult; it’s better suited for larger bodies of water than small ponds.
Mount Type
Installation is straightforward with a secure adjustable transom mount, and it’s fairly easy to remove and transport despite its moderate weight.
Battery Life
Battery life is reasonable, with a 12V deep cycle battery providing a good balance of runtime and power for typical fishing trips.

The Newport NV-Series 62lb thrust trolling motor is a solid choice for canoe or small boat anglers looking for reliable electric propulsion, especially in saltwater. Its 62 pounds of thrust offer good power for moving most canoes or small boats efficiently, and the 36-inch shaft length suits a range of hull depths, keeping the motor submerged properly for better performance. It runs on a standard 12-volt system, which is common and easy to find batteries for, though you’ll need to supply a deep cycle 12V battery separately.

The motor features a manual tiller handle with 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse), allowing decent control over boat speed and direction, which is helpful when trolling or maneuvering quietly. The transom mount is adjustable and locks securely, making installation straightforward and stable. The built-in LED battery indicator is a useful addition for keeping an eye on power levels while out on the water. Battery life depends on your battery capacity and usage, but since it draws up to 58 amps, using a recommended 50ah battery can provide a reasonable balance of runtime and power.

One downside is that the motor is manual control only, so it lacks remote or foot pedal operation, which some anglers might prefer for hands-free use. It also weighs 23 pounds, which is moderate but may be noticeable when mounting or transporting. This motor serves as a dependable and quiet performer for saltwater canoe trolling, offering effective thrust and good control in a straightforward package.

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Control Type
Mount Type

Most important from
6828 reviews

Thrust
Delivers impressive speed and power, reaching up to 3.5 mph solo and over 4 mph with dual motors and heavy load.
Control Type
First gear is quite aggressive, making slow, quiet creeping difficult; it’s better suited for larger bodies of water than small ponds.
Mount Type
Installation is straightforward with a secure adjustable transom mount, and it’s fairly easy to remove and transport despite its moderate weight.
Battery Life
Battery life is reasonable, with a 12V deep cycle battery providing a good balance of runtime and power for typical fishing trips.
#3

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

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Shaft Length
Control Type

Most important from
78 reviews

Thrust
Delivers impressive power that handles heavy water conditions with ease.
Shaft Length
Durable composite shaft and weed-cutting propeller enhance longevity and performance.
Control Type
The Spot-Lock feature holds position precisely, eliminating the need for anchors.
Mount Type
The bow-mount design fits well on canoes and small to mid-sized boats, providing great control.
Battery Life
Offers smooth, reliable operation with efficient battery management for extended fishing sessions.

The Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor offers strong performance with its 80 pounds of thrust and a 60-inch shaft, making it suitable for a range of small to mid-sized fishing boats, including canoes equipped for trolling. It runs on 24 volts, which provides ample power for smooth, reliable operation. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS system that allows precise control with Spot-Lock to hold your position exactly, even against wind or current. This is especially helpful for anglers wanting to stay on productive fishing spots without constantly adjusting the motor.

The motor includes multiple control options: a wireless LCD remote and a low-profile heel-toe foot pedal, giving flexibility depending on your preferred style. Its bow mount design fits well for canoes or boats with a suitable mounting point at the front. Battery life is enhanced by the Digital Maximizer technology, which adjusts power use efficiently, allowing longer fishing sessions on a single charge. Additional benefits include the durable, composite shaft guaranteed for life and the Weedless Wedge 2 propeller designed to cut through weeds without draining the battery. The integration with Humminbird fish finders through the One-Boat Network app can add convenience for those using compatible devices.

The motor weighs 63 pounds, which may be somewhat heavy for frequent transport or small canoes without strong mounting support. Also, while it is designed for freshwater use, the description suggests saltwater applications too, but users should verify corrosion resistance if used in saltwater regularly. The price and complexity of features might be more than casual users need if they only require simple trolling. This trolling motor is a feature-rich, powerful option well suited for serious anglers looking for precision and control on freshwater fishing trips. Its advanced GPS and durable build make it a solid investment, though the weight and feature set might be more than necessary for very casual or lightweight canoe use.

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Shaft Length
Control Type

Most important from
78 reviews

Thrust
Delivers impressive power that handles heavy water conditions with ease.
Shaft Length
Durable composite shaft and weed-cutting propeller enhance longevity and performance.
Control Type
The Spot-Lock feature holds position precisely, eliminating the need for anchors.
Mount Type
The bow-mount design fits well on canoes and small to mid-sized boats, providing great control.
Battery Life
Offers smooth, reliable operation with efficient battery management for extended fishing sessions.

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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