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10 Best Minn Kota Trolling Motors 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 112 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Saltwater

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,370
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Type

Most important from
67 reviews

Thrust
Handles larger boats perfectly, making it an essential upgrade for serious anglers.
Control Type
Comes with a convenient remote that can be worn around the neck for easy control.
Mounting Type
Installation is straightforward enough to do independently without hassle.
Additional Features
The Spot-Lock feature works flawlessly, holding position reliably during fishing.

The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova is a powerful 112-pound thrust trolling motor designed specifically for saltwater fishing with a 60-inch shaft length that suits most boats well. It runs on a 12-volt electric system and mounts conveniently on the bow of your boat, giving you better control and maneuverability. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS system, which includes Spot-Lock technology to hold your boat in place automatically, so you don’t have to constantly steer. The wireless remote and compatibility with Humminbird fish finders add ease to controlling speed and direction without fuss. The motor also has a Drift Mode that helps maintain steady speed when fishing in windy or current-heavy conditions, which can be a big help on the water.

Durability is a strong point here too – the motor has advanced corrosion protection with multiple layers to prevent rust, making it ideal for saltwater use. The composite shaft is guaranteed for life, adding peace of mind. Another useful feature is the Digital Maximizer that extends battery life by adjusting power use based on your needs, allowing longer fishing sessions without recharging.

On the downside, the motor is on the heavier side at 63 pounds, which may require some effort to install or remove. Also, it operates on 12 volts, so you’ll want to ensure your boat’s battery system can support it well. While the automatic and GPS features are impressive, beginners might need some time to get fully comfortable with all the controls and app integrations. This trolling motor is an excellent choice for saltwater anglers who want reliable performance, advanced positioning technology, and durable construction.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,370
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Type

Most important from
67 reviews

Thrust
Handles larger boats perfectly, making it an essential upgrade for serious anglers.
Control Type
Comes with a convenient remote that can be worn around the neck for easy control.
Mounting Type
Installation is straightforward enough to do independently without hassle.
Additional Features
The Spot-Lock feature works flawlessly, holding position reliably during fishing.
#2

Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar – 80 Lb. Thrust, 45 in. Shaft, Freshwater

The Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor is a strong choice for serious freshwater anglers who want advanced control and convenience. With 80 pounds of thrust and a 45-inch shaft, it's well-suited for most freshwater boats, providing enough power for stable and precise maneuvering. The 24-volt system offers good battery efficiency, especially with the Digital Maximizer feature that helps extend your fishing time by using only the power you need.

The motor's standout feature is its advanced GPS trolling system, which includes Spot-Lock technology. This lets you lock your boat in place over a fishing spot with high accuracy without manually steering, saving effort and improving your chances to catch fish. The inclusion of Drift Mode helps maintain speed and direction automatically even in windy or current-heavy conditions, which is a big plus. Control options are flexible, offering both a wireless remote with an easy-to-read screen and a foot pedal with heel/toe steering, catering to different user preferences.

The bow-mount design is standard and practical for most setups, and the motor integrates smoothly with Humminbird fish finders through the One-Boat Network app, adding to its convenience. The Weedless Wedge 2 prop is designed to handle weeds and debris without draining battery life, which helps maintain performance in rough water. The composite shaft is built to last, backed by a lifetime guarantee, adding confidence in the motor’s durability. While it is freshwater-focused, users who need a saltwater motor may want to verify resistance to corrosion for their specific environment. At 54 pounds, it’s somewhat heavy, which might make installation a bit challenging for some users. The price point and advanced features may be more than casual anglers require, making it best suited for those who want the latest technology and reliable performance on the water.

#3

Minn Kota PowerDrive Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar – 70 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Freshwater

Rating
9.1
Control Type
Additional Features

Most important from
26 reviews

Control Type
The motor integrates seamlessly with in-boat networking, enhancing control and convenience during use.
Additional Features
The Spot-Lock feature impressively holds position, allowing anglers to focus fully on fishing without constant adjustments.

The Minn Kota PowerDrive Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is a strong choice for freshwater anglers who want advanced control and reliable performance. With 70 pounds of thrust and a 60-inch shaft, it suits medium to larger boats and deeper waters. Its 24-volt system offers good power, especially combined with the Digital Maximizer feature that extends battery life by adjusting power use to your speed needs. The bow mount is standard and easy to install, while the automatic operation mode reduces manual effort when steering.

One of its standout features is the built-in Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, which provides clear fish and bottom readings without extra bulky equipment — great for serious fishing enthusiasts. The Advanced GPS Trolling System with Spot-Lock allows you to hold position automatically, freeing you to focus on fishing rather than constantly adjusting the motor. The Deploy-Assist Lever makes raising and lowering the motor straightforward, which is helpful on the water. Additionally, the motor’s composite shaft is durable and comes with a lifetime guarantee, promising long-term reliability.

This model weighs nearly 48 pounds, which might be a consideration for portability or quick mounting changes. Though designed primarily for freshwater use, the motor's specifications mention saltwater use, which suggests it has corrosion-resistant features. The price reflects its premium features, making the PowerDrive ideal for anglers who want a mix of power, advanced GPS control, and integrated sonar, while casual users or those on a tight budget might find it more than they need.

Rating
9.1
Control Type
Additional Features

Most important from
26 reviews

Control Type
The motor integrates seamlessly with in-boat networking, enhancing control and convenience during use.
Additional Features
The Spot-Lock feature impressively holds position, allowing anglers to focus fully on fishing without constant adjustments.

Buying Guide for the Best Minn Kota Trolling Motors

Choosing the right trolling motor for your boat can significantly enhance your fishing experience. A trolling motor is an essential tool for anglers, providing precise control and quiet operation to navigate through water without spooking fish. When selecting a trolling motor, consider the size of your boat, the type of water you'll be fishing in, and your personal preferences for features and functionality. Here are some key specifications to consider when making your choice.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, typically expressed in pounds. It determines how effectively the motor can move your boat through the water. For smaller boats, a lower thrust (around 30-40 pounds) may be sufficient, while larger boats may require higher thrust (50-100 pounds or more). To pick the right thrust, consider the size and weight of your boat, as well as the typical conditions you'll be navigating, such as strong currents or windy environments.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller. It is crucial for ensuring the propeller stays submerged in various water conditions. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, reducing efficiency. Conversely, a shaft that's too long can be cumbersome. Generally, shorter shafts (around 36 inches) are suitable for smaller boats, while longer shafts (45-60 inches) are better for larger boats or rough waters. Measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline to determine the appropriate shaft length for your boat.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power source required for the trolling motor, typically 12V, 24V, or 36V systems. Higher voltage motors provide more power and longer run times but require more batteries. A 12V system is usually adequate for small boats and casual fishing, while 24V and 36V systems are better for larger boats and extended use. Consider your fishing habits and the duration of your trips to decide the right voltage for your needs.
Control TypeControl type refers to how you operate the trolling 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 can be beneficial for fishing. Remote control offers the most flexibility, enabling you to control the motor from anywhere on the boat. Choose the control type based on your comfort and fishing style.
Mounting TypeMounting type determines how the trolling motor is attached to your boat, with bow mount and transom mount being the most common options. Bow mounts are installed at the front of the boat and provide better control and maneuverability, making them ideal for serious anglers. Transom mounts are attached to the back and are easier to install, suitable for casual fishing and smaller boats. Consider your boat's design and your fishing preferences when selecting the mounting type.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your trolling motor's functionality, such as GPS integration, autopilot, and digital maximizer for battery efficiency. GPS integration allows for precise navigation and anchoring, while autopilot can maintain a set course or speed. Digital maximizer helps extend battery life by adjusting power consumption. Evaluate which features are essential for your fishing needs and choose a motor that offers those capabilities.

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