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10 Best Electric 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 62lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator & 36" Shaft

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,214
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
6682 reviews

Thrust
The motor easily moves a 17-foot boat and performs well as a kicker motor for trolling motor-only lakes.
Control Type
First gear is quite aggressive, starting at 2.5 mph, which can be jerky for small pond use, but perfect for larger waters.
Mounting Location
The motor is lightweight and easy to install and remove, making it convenient for frequent use.
Speed Settings
This motor is very fast, reaching speeds of 3.5 mph by itself, and has served well over 100 fishing trips.

The Newport NV-Series 62lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor appears to be a robust choice for those in need of a reliable electric trolling motor. With 62lb thrust and a 12-volt requirement, it offers efficient power suitable for a variety of small to medium-sized boats. The 36-inch shaft is adaptable for different boat heights, making it versatile and easy to mount, especially for saltwater fishing enthusiasts.

One of its notable features is the 8-speed settings, offering 5 forward and 3 reverse speed options. This variety allows for precise speed control, which is essential for maintaining the desired trolling speed in different conditions. However, the top speed is modest, maxing out at approximately 4.25 mph, which could be a limitation for some users seeking a faster pace.

The motor's telescoping tiller handle provides ease of control, and its adjustable mount design allows for flexibility in angle, height, and direction—ideal for a tailored boating experience. The 3-blade propeller is designed to enhance torque, assisting in smoother, quieter operations which are less likely to disturb fish. Battery requirements include one 12V Lead-Acid or Lithium Deep Cycle battery, and a 60amp circuit breaker is included for safety against voltage surges. However, it's important to note that the battery is not included, which might be an additional consideration in terms of cost.

Weighing 23 pounds, the motor is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle and install. The LED battery indicator is a practical addition, ensuring users can monitor their battery life effectively. While it has a solid customer rating and ranks well in its category, the need for an additional battery purchase is a potential downside. For recreational boaters and avid fishers who frequent saltwater areas, this trolling motor presents a balanced mix of power, control, and durability for a satisfying boating experience.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,214
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
6682 reviews

Thrust
The motor easily moves a 17-foot boat and performs well as a kicker motor for trolling motor-only lakes.
Control Type
First gear is quite aggressive, starting at 2.5 mph, which can be jerky for small pond use, but perfect for larger waters.
Mounting Location
The motor is lightweight and easy to install and remove, making it convenient for frequent use.
Speed Settings
This motor is very fast, reaching speeds of 3.5 mph by itself, and has served well over 100 fishing trips.
#2

Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30" Shaft (23M1000203)

Rating
9.6
Thrust
Speed Settings

Most important from
6682 reviews

Thrust
After 100 fishing trips, the motor still performs well, clocking a reliable speed of 3.5 mph by itself.
Speed Settings
The first gear is too aggressive, making it difficult to move quietly at a slow pace.

The Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is a solid choice for recreational boaters, especially those venturing into saltwater environments. With a 55lb thrust, it offers decent power, which is appropriate for smaller boats, ensuring smooth and efficient operation without overheating. The 12V power system makes it relatively easy to power with a single 12V lead-acid or lithium battery, although it’s important to note that the battery is not included. It’s equipped with a 30-inch shaft, which is generally suitable for varied boat sizes, allowing flexibility in installation.

One of its standout features is the adjustable mount angle and height, allowing users to customize their setup as needed. The motor's control is via a telescoping tiller handle, providing simple and intuitive operation. It has eight-speed settings, with five forward and three reverse speeds, making it versatile for different water conditions and speeds up to approximately 4 mph, though this can vary with other factors like boat load and water currents.

Battery life is assisted by a handy 5 LED battery meter, which helps in monitoring power levels, and a 50Amp circuit breaker to protect against any voltage surges. At a weight of 23.2 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle and install. Potential buyers should consider that its top speed is modest, mainly designed for trolling rather than high-speed propulsion. Also, while being a number one bestseller in its category, the motor has been on the market since 2013, so newer models may offer more advanced features. Despite these considerations, the Newport NV-Series remains a popular and reliable choice for those in need of a quality trolling motor for saltwater use.

Rating
9.6
Thrust
Speed Settings

Most important from
6682 reviews

Thrust
After 100 fishing trips, the motor still performs well, clocking a reliable speed of 3.5 mph by itself.
Speed Settings
The first gear is too aggressive, making it difficult to move quietly at a slow pace.
#3

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

Rating
9.4
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
69 reviews

Thrust
The motor's power is more than sufficient to steer even a pontoon boat to prime fishing spots, locking securely in place.
Control Type
The wireless remote is a game changer, particularly for those who find traditional paddles challenging, offering ease of control.

The Minn Kota 1358350 Terrova electric trolling motor is designed for anglers looking for reliable performance. It boasts a 55 lb thrust, which is suitable for a variety of boat sizes, and operates at 24 volts, offering robust power. The 54-inch shaft length provides flexibility for different water depths and boat setups, and its bow mount design ensures stable and secure mounting on the front of the boat.

The wireless remote control with an easy-to-read LCD screen simplifies operation, allowing you to manage speed and navigation effortlessly. The advanced GPS system enhances navigation accuracy with features like Spot-Lock, Jog, and Drift Mode, positioning you precisely on your fishing spots and maintaining course even in challenging conditions. The inclusion in the One-Boat Network allows integration with Humminbird fish finders, adding to its versatility.

Battery life is impressively extended thanks to the Digital Maximizer, which adjusts power usage to match your selected speed, reducing battery drain. Additionally, the Weedless Wedge 2 Prop ensures efficient movement through vegetation, minimizing energy consumption. The indestructible composite shaft is guaranteed for life, ensuring durability. However, the product's weight of 46 pounds may be cumbersome for some users, and the reliance on a 24-volt system means it may require more power than lower voltage options. The advanced features can be overwhelming for users not familiar with high-tech equipment, but they provide significant advantages for experienced anglers seeking precision and control.

Rating
9.4
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
69 reviews

Thrust
The motor's power is more than sufficient to steer even a pontoon boat to prime fishing spots, locking securely in place.
Control Type
The wireless remote is a game changer, particularly for those who find traditional paddles challenging, offering ease of control.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Trolling Motors

Choosing the right electric trolling motor can significantly enhance your fishing or boating experience. The right motor will provide you with the necessary power, control, and efficiency to navigate waters smoothly. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs and preferences.
ThrustThrust is a measure of how powerful the motor is, typically expressed in pounds (lbs). It determines how well the motor can move your boat through the water. For smaller boats or kayaks, a motor with 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. Consider the size and weight of your boat, as well as the typical water conditions you encounter, to choose the right thrust level.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power supply required for the motor, commonly available in 12V, 24V, and 36V systems. A 12V motor is suitable for smaller boats and lighter use, while 24V and 36V systems provide more power and are better for larger boats or more demanding conditions. Higher voltage systems generally offer better efficiency and longer run times. Assess your boat's size and your typical usage to determine the appropriate voltage.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller and is crucial for ensuring the motor stays submerged in the water. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, reducing efficiency. If it's too long, it can create drag and affect maneuverability. Measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline and add 16-20 inches for bow-mounted motors or 20-24 inches for transom-mounted motors to find the right shaft length.
Control TypeControl type refers to how you operate the motor, with options including hand control, foot control, and remote control. Hand control is straightforward and ideal for smaller boats. Foot control allows for hands-free operation, which is beneficial for fishing. Remote control offers the most flexibility, letting you operate the motor from anywhere on the boat. Consider your preferred style of operation and the type of activities you'll be doing to choose the best control type.
Mounting LocationMounting location can be either bow (front) or transom (rear) of the boat. Bow-mounted motors provide better control and maneuverability, making them ideal for fishing. Transom-mounted motors are easier to install and are suitable for smaller boats or casual use. Think about your boat's design and how you plan to use the motor to decide on the appropriate mounting location.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long the motor can run on a single charge. It depends on the motor's power consumption and the capacity of the battery used. Higher thrust motors and longer run times require larger or multiple batteries. Consider how long you typically spend on the water and choose a motor and battery setup that can meet your needs without frequent recharging.
Speed SettingsSpeed settings refer to the number of speed options available on the motor. Basic models may have just a few fixed speeds, while more advanced models offer variable speed control for finer adjustments. Variable speed control can help conserve battery life and provide smoother operation. Think about how much control you need over your speed and whether you prefer simple or more precise adjustments.

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