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10 Best Cheap 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

Newport NV-Series 86lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator (36" Shaft)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,141
Thrust
Voltage
Mounting Type

Most important from
6545 reviews

Thrust
The Newport 86lb motor is faster in first gear than a typical 40lb motor at full power, making it perfect for covering more water efficiently.
Voltage
The motor's 24V setup is simple to install, and the necessary cables are included, making it user-friendly.
Mounting Type
The motor is easy to adjust and mount, enhancing its usability for various boating needs.
Battery Life
The LED battery indicator is a highly appreciated feature, allowing easy monitoring of battery life.

The Newport NV-Series 86lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor is a powerful and efficient choice for boaters. It offers 86 pounds of thrust, which is substantial for various boating needs, ensuring you have enough power to navigate smoothly. The 24-volt system means it will require two 12V batteries, and this setup provides a good balance of power and runtime.

The 36-inch shaft length is versatile for different types of boats and water conditions, making adjustments easy with its telescoping tiller handle. The motor features a transom mount, which is simple to install and secure. It has eight speeds (five forward and three reverse), providing flexibility for different trolling conditions. The LED battery indicator is a handy feature, allowing you to monitor your battery life easily.

The motor is designed for saltwater use, which is beneficial for those planning marine fishing trips. It is quiet and efficient, reducing the risk of spooking fish. Its durability, efficiency, and the 2-year warranty make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and affordable trolling motor.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,141
Thrust
Voltage
Mounting Type

Most important from
6545 reviews

Thrust
The Newport 86lb motor is faster in first gear than a typical 40lb motor at full power, making it perfect for covering more water efficiently.
Voltage
The motor's 24V setup is simple to install, and the necessary cables are included, making it user-friendly.
Mounting Type
The motor is easy to adjust and mount, enhancing its usability for various boating needs.
Battery Life
The LED battery indicator is a highly appreciated feature, allowing easy monitoring of battery life.
#2

Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with Spot-Lock, Wireless Remote, 55 Lb. Thrust, 54 In. Shaft, Freshwater

Rating
9.6
Control Type

Most important from
48 reviews

Control Type
The remote control is a game changer, especially for those with mobility issues, making it very easy to use.

The Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova trolling motor offers a strong 55 lb. thrust and operates at 24 volts, making it suitable for small to medium-sized boats. Its 54-inch shaft length ensures it can be used in deeper waters, making it versatile for various fishing environments. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS trolling system, which provides precise navigation and boat positioning with the wireless remote control, making it user-friendly even for novices.

The Spot-Lock with Jog feature allows you to maintain your position with high accuracy, which is ideal for fishing in specific spots without drifting away. Additionally, the Drift Mode and Digital Maximizer enhance battery efficiency, ensuring longer run times and more control over speed and direction. The inclusion of a Weedless Wedge 2 prop ensures that the motor can handle weedy areas without draining the battery excessively.

The motor is built with an indestructible composite shaft, which Minn Kota guarantees for life, promising durability and reliability. The higher voltage requirement of 24 volts could necessitate purchasing additional batteries if not already equipped. While the wireless remote is convenient, some users might prefer a more traditional foot pedal control for hands-free operation. The mounting type is bow mount, which might not be suitable for all boat types. This model might be on the higher end of the 'cheap' category, but it offers numerous features that justify the investment for serious anglers.

Rating
9.6
Control Type

Most important from
48 reviews

Control Type
The remote control is a game changer, especially for those with mobility issues, making it very easy to use.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Trolling Motors

Choosing the right trolling motor can significantly enhance your fishing experience. A trolling motor is an essential tool for anglers, providing quiet and precise control over your boat's movement. When selecting a trolling motor, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your fishing style and environment.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, usually expressed in pounds (lbs). It determines how well the motor can move your boat through the water, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or wind. For smaller boats, a lower thrust (around 30-40 lbs) may be sufficient, while larger boats may require higher thrust (50 lbs or more). Consider the size and weight of your boat when choosing the right thrust level.
VoltageVoltage refers to the power supply required for the trolling motor, typically 12V, 24V, or 36V. Higher voltage motors generally offer more power and efficiency but may require multiple batteries. A 12V motor is suitable for smaller boats and casual fishing, while 24V and 36V motors are better for larger boats and more demanding conditions. Choose the voltage based on your boat size and how often you plan to use the motor.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller, and it needs to be appropriate for your boat's height from the water. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may not stay submerged, and if it's too long, it can be cumbersome. Measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline and add 16-20 inches to find the ideal shaft length. Ensure the shaft length matches your boat's specifications for optimal performance.
Control TypeTrolling motors can be controlled via hand, foot, or remote. Hand-controlled motors are straightforward and budget-friendly, suitable for smaller boats. Foot-controlled motors offer hands-free operation, ideal for anglers who need to multitask. Remote-controlled motors provide advanced features and convenience, allowing control from anywhere on the boat. Choose the control type based on your fishing style and preference for ease of use.
Mounting TypeTrolling motors can be mounted on the bow (front) or transom (rear) of the boat. Bow-mounted motors offer better maneuverability and are preferred by serious anglers for precise control. Transom-mounted motors are easier to install and are suitable for smaller boats or casual fishing. Consider your boat's design and your fishing needs when deciding on the mounting type.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the trolling motor can run on a single charge. Longer battery life is crucial for extended fishing trips and ensures you won't be stranded with a dead motor. Look for motors with efficient power usage and consider investing in high-quality batteries. Match the battery life to your typical fishing duration and conditions to avoid interruptions.

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