10 Best Trolling Motors 2026 in the United States

The Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a robust trolling motor designed for serious anglers looking for reliability and advanced features. With an 80 lb. thrust and a 60-inch shaft, this motor is ideal for heavier boats. Its 24-volt electric engine ensures strong performance and efficiency.

One standout feature is the advanced GPS trolling system, which offers precise navigation, speed control, and the ability to hold your position with Spot-Lock. This is perfect for maintaining your position over productive fishing spots without constant manual adjustments. The Drift Mode is a handy addition, allowing automatic speed and course control, which is great in variable water conditions. The Digital Maximizer is another highlight, extending battery life significantly by providing only the necessary power, ensuring you can fish all day long without worrying about running out of battery.

The indestructible composite shaft, guaranteed for life, adds to the motor's durability, making it a long-term investment. However, it does come with a few drawbacks. The 24-volt system might require dual battery setups, which can be more cumbersome and expensive than a single 12-volt system. At 23.59 kilograms, it's relatively heavy, which may be a consideration for some users when mounting or transporting the motor. Additionally, while loaded with features, the Riptide Terrova is positioned at a higher price point, which might be a barrier for some budget-conscious buyers.

In summary, the Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a feature-rich, durable trolling motor suited for advanced anglers who value top-notch navigation and extended battery life but may require a larger budget and dual battery setup.

The Lowrance Ghost freshwater trolling motor offers a strong thrust of 97 to 120 pounds, powered by a 36-volt electric system, making it suitable for a variety of freshwater boats. Its 47-inch shaft length fits well for typical bow mounting, providing good control and maneuverability in most water conditions. The motor’s standout feature is its ultra-quiet, brushless design, which allows smooth movement without scaring away fish—a significant advantage for anglers.

A convenient aspect is the configurable foot pedal with shortcut buttons, which allows easy access to functions like anchor mode and waypoint marking, enhancing hands-free control on the water. Additionally, the motor includes a built-in HDI sonar for fish detection, which integrates seamlessly with Lowrance fish finders and delivers clear underwater imaging without interference.

Weighing about 38.5 kg (around 85 pounds), the motor is on the heavier side, potentially making installation and removal more challenging for some users. Since it operates on a 36V system, it requires compatible batteries, which may add extra cost and considerations regarding battery life for longer trips. Designed exclusively for freshwater use, it is not intended for saltwater environments. The motor also comes with a 3-year warranty, providing confidence in its durability. This makes the Lowrance Ghost a quiet, powerful, and tech-friendly trolling motor ideal for freshwater anglers seeking precise control and sonar integration.

The Minn Kota 1358382 Terrova trolling motor impresses with its strong 80 lb. thrust and a 60-inch shaft, making it suitable for medium to large boats. Its 24-volt system, along with the Digital Maximizer, extends battery life significantly, which is a plus for those planning long fishing days. The advanced GPS trolling system adds convenience with features like Spot-Lock, which can hold your position accurately—ideal for fishing at a productive spot.

A standout feature is the wireless remote control, allowing for easy adjustments without needing to be at the motor itself. The integration with the One-Boat Network is useful for those who use Humminbird fish finders, providing seamless control of various fishing equipment through a single app. The product is designed for saltwater use, offering versatility in different fishing environments.

However, the trolling motor is on the heavier side at 63 pounds, which might present challenges for smaller boats or users who prefer lighter equipment. While the motor includes a heel-toe electric foot pedal, some users might find adjusting to electronic controls a learning curve compared to traditional methods.

The Drift Mode and Weedless Wedge 2 Prop add to its effectiveness by allowing smooth operation in less than ideal water conditions, such as strong winds and weed-heavy areas. With a three-year warranty, the motor provides a good assurance for durability. Although positioned more towards advanced users, the Minn Kota Terrova offers powerful features that could enhance any fishing experience, if the weight and complexity of the system are manageable for the user.