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10 Best Trolling Motors For Pontoons 2025 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 by1,244
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
109 reviews

Thrust
The motor delivers ample power to smoothly steer and maneuver pontoon boats to prime fishing spots.
Control Type
The wireless remote control is a game changer, offering easy and precise operation without physical strain.
Mounting Location
Installation is straightforward and quick, taking about 30 minutes from assembly to mounting.
Additional Features
Spot-Lock technology effectively holds the boat steady even in windy conditions, acting like a reliable electronic anchor.

The Minn Kota Terrova is a powerful and feature-rich trolling motor designed for pontoon boats, offering 55 pounds of thrust and a 54-inch shaft length to suit various water depths. Its 24-volt system provides strong and efficient power, making it easier to maneuver your pontoon even in challenging conditions. The bow mount setup helps with precise steering and positioning, which is great for anglers who want to stay exactly where the fish are. This motor stands out with its advanced GPS features, including Spot-Lock, which acts like an electronic anchor to keep your boat in place without holding the controls. The wireless remote and easy-to-read LCD screen add convenience, letting you control speed and direction effortlessly.

Another handy feature is Drift Mode, which helps maintain a steady speed and course without extra equipment, ideal for fishing in wind or current. Battery life is also well-managed thanks to the Digital Maximizer, extending your time on the water. The Weedless Wedge 2 propeller is designed to cut through weeds and debris without slowing you down, and the composite shaft is both lightweight and durable, backed by a lifetime guarantee. On the downside, at 46 pounds, it is somewhat heavy, which might make installation and handling a bit more demanding. The price can be higher than basic models due to the advanced technology and features.

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-control trolling motor with smart GPS functions to enhance your fishing experience on a pontoon, the Minn Kota Terrova is an excellent choice, especially for serious anglers who appreciate precision and convenience.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,244
Thrust
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
109 reviews

Thrust
The motor delivers ample power to smoothly steer and maneuver pontoon boats to prime fishing spots.
Control Type
The wireless remote control is a game changer, offering easy and precise operation without physical strain.
Mounting Location
Installation is straightforward and quick, taking about 30 minutes from assembly to mounting.
Additional Features
Spot-Lock technology effectively holds the boat steady even in windy conditions, acting like a reliable electronic anchor.
#2

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

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Additional Features

Most important from
23 reviews

Thrust
The trolling motor provides plenty of power and is awesome on a deck boat.
Additional Features
The anchor feature is great and very responsive.

The Minn Kota 1358472 PowerDrive is a robust trolling motor designed for pontoon boats, offering 70 lbs. of thrust and a 60-inch shaft length, which is ideal for larger boats. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS trolling system, which allows for precise navigation and automatic control, including setting Spot-Locks and adjusting speed and steering remotely via a micro remote. This feature is particularly beneficial for serious anglers who need consistent positioning while fishing.

Additionally, the built-in dual spectrum CHIRP sonar provides detailed readings of fish, structure, and the bottom, enhancing your fishing experience. The Deploy-Assist Lever makes it easy to get the motor in and out of the water, which simplifies operation for users of all skill levels. The Digital Maximizer ensures a longer battery life by delivering only the necessary power, which is great for extended trips. The durable composite shaft is guaranteed for life, adding peace of mind regarding the product’s longevity.

However, this motor is relatively heavy at over 21 kilograms and requires a 24V battery system, which might be a consideration for some users. It is also on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious buyers. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Minn Kota PowerDrive provides advanced features and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for avid anglers with pontoons.

Rating
9.1
Thrust
Additional Features

Most important from
23 reviews

Thrust
The trolling motor provides plenty of power and is awesome on a deck boat.
Additional Features
The anchor feature is great and very responsive.
#3

MotorGuide Tour Pro 82lb 45" 24V with Pinpoint GPS, 941900020, Black

Rating
9.1
Voltage
Control Type
Additional Features

Most important from
45 reviews

Voltage
The GPS trolling motor requires clean, steady voltage for optimal performance. Any voltage drop can cause issues, particularly with the anchor lock.
Control Type
The cable steer with GPS is a significant advantage. Even if there is an electronic fault, the motor remains operational.
Additional Features
The spot lock feature is highly praised and works great once installed correctly.

The MotorGuide Tour Pro 82lb 45" 24V trolling motor is designed to cater to bass boats, making it a powerful choice for pontoon fishing enthusiasts as well. With a considerable thrust of 82 pounds, it provides robust performance suitable for maneuvering larger boats in freshwater environments. The 45-inch shaft length ensures it can operate effectively in various water depths, and the 24V power system is efficient for extended use.

The inclusion of Pinpoint GPS adds a significant advantage for precise navigation and spot-lock capabilities, highly beneficial for maintaining position in fishing hotspots. The foot control method and cable steer system offer responsive handling, though it may take some time to get accustomed to if you're used to remote control options. The motor's construction, including the new two-blade Katana prop, ensures smooth and efficient operation. It also features a sturdy bow mount, well-suited for stability and ease of installation.

The integrated Bounce Buster and cable routing provide additional convenience and protection, potentially extending the motor's lifespan. The LED dashboard for power, battery, and GPS status is a handy feature, making it easier to monitor the motor's performance. However, it is worth noting that the motor's material is primarily plastic, which might raise concerns about long-term durability under heavy use. Additionally, the product's package weight is relatively heavy at approximately 37.65 kilograms, which could pose challenges during installation or transport. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind regarding its reliability. This trolling motor is best suited for freshwater use and for users who prefer foot-controlled, bow-mounted systems with advanced GPS capabilities.

Rating
9.1
Voltage
Control Type
Additional Features

Most important from
45 reviews

Voltage
The GPS trolling motor requires clean, steady voltage for optimal performance. Any voltage drop can cause issues, particularly with the anchor lock.
Control Type
The cable steer with GPS is a significant advantage. Even if there is an electronic fault, the motor remains operational.
Additional Features
The spot lock feature is highly praised and works great once installed correctly.

Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Motors For Pontoons

Choosing the right trolling motor for your pontoon boat is essential for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable boating experience. A trolling motor helps you navigate through the water quietly and efficiently, making it ideal for fishing or leisurely cruising. To find the best fit for your needs, you should consider several key specifications that will impact the performance and suitability of the trolling motor for your pontoon. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and select a motor that meets your specific requirements.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how much power the trolling motor provides to move your pontoon through the water. It is usually measured in pounds (lbs). The amount of thrust you need depends on the size and weight of your pontoon. For smaller pontoons, 30-40 lbs of thrust may be sufficient, while larger pontoons may require 70 lbs or more. To determine the right thrust for you, consider the weight of your boat, including passengers and gear, and the water conditions you typically encounter. More thrust is needed for heavier loads and rougher waters.
Shaft LengthThe shaft length of a trolling motor is the distance from the motor head to the propeller. It is important because it ensures that the propeller stays submerged in the water, providing optimal performance. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, especially in choppy conditions. If it is too long, it can create drag and reduce efficiency. To choose the right shaft length, measure the distance from the mounting point on your pontoon to the waterline and add 16-20 inches. This will ensure the propeller stays submerged in various water conditions.
VoltageTrolling motors are powered by batteries, and the voltage indicates the number of batteries required. Common voltages are 12V, 24V, and 36V. A 12V motor uses one battery, a 24V motor uses two, and a 36V motor uses three. Higher voltage motors provide more power and longer run times but require more batteries, which adds weight and cost. For smaller pontoons or occasional use, a 12V motor may be sufficient. For larger pontoons or frequent use, consider a 24V or 36V motor for better performance and longer battery life.
Control TypeTrolling motors can be controlled in different ways, including hand control, foot control, and remote control. Hand control motors are operated with a tiller handle and are simple to use, making them a good choice for smaller pontoons. Foot control motors allow you to steer and adjust speed with a foot pedal, keeping your hands free for fishing or other activities. Remote control motors offer the most convenience, allowing you to control the motor from anywhere on the boat using a wireless remote. Choose the control type that best suits your boating style and preferences.
Mounting LocationTrolling motors can be mounted on the bow (front) or transom (rear) of your pontoon. Bow-mounted motors provide better control and maneuverability, especially in windy conditions, making them ideal for fishing. Transom-mounted motors are easier to install and are a good option for smaller pontoons or casual use. Consider where you will be using the motor most often and how you prefer to control your boat when deciding on the mounting location.
Additional FeaturesModern trolling motors come with various additional features that can enhance your boating experience. These may include GPS integration for precise navigation, autopilot for maintaining a set course, and digital displays for monitoring battery life and motor performance. While these features can add to the cost, they can also provide significant benefits, especially for avid boaters and anglers. Consider which features are important to you and how they will improve your time on the water.

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