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10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with Micro Remote – 70 Lb. Thrust, 54 in. Shaft, Saltwater

The Minn Kota 1363585 Riptide PowerDrive is a robust trolling motor designed for saltwater fishing, offering a significant 70 lb. thrust and a 54-inch shaft, making it suitable for larger boats. One of its standout features is the Advanced GPS Trolling System, allowing for precise navigation, speed, and steering control via a simple micro remote. This is particularly beneficial for anglers who require consistent boat positioning.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,182
Thrust
Control Type
Battery Life

Most important from
60 reviews

Thrust
The 70 lb thrust effortlessly holds an 18ft boat steady in wind and current.
Control Type
The remote control feature is a game-changer, making navigation and control seamless.
Battery Life
After 6 hours of fishing, the battery meter still shows full, thanks to efficient power management.
#2
9.4 score

Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 80 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Saltwater

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.

#3
8.5 score

Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motor 90”, White, Without Transducer

The Garmin Force Kraken is a strong choice if you want one of the most powerful trolling motors available, delivering 100 lbs of thrust. This makes it great for larger boats or tough water conditions where extra power is needed. It runs on 36 volts, which is typical for high-performance electric motors, ensuring smooth and steady operation. The shaft length is 90 inches, which is quite long and should fit many boat sizes and deck setups, especially if you have a taller bow or need extra clearance.

Top 10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motor 90”, White, Without Transducer

Thrust: 100 lbs
Voltage: 36 Volts
Shaft Length: 90 inches
Control Type: Wireless Bluetooth
Mounting Location: Bow Mount

Garmin Force Trolling Motor 57", 57in, 010-02025-00

Thrust: 5 HP
Voltage: 36 V, 24 V
Shaft Length: 57 inch
Control Type: wireless foot pedal
Mounting Location: Bow
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Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Motors

Choosing the right trolling motor for your boat can significantly enhance your fishing experience. A trolling motor is an electric motor used to maneuver your boat quietly and precisely, which is crucial for fishing. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your needs.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, usually measured in pounds (lbs). It is important because it determines how well the motor can move your boat through the water, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or heavy winds. For small boats or kayaks, 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. To pick the right thrust, consider the size and weight of your boat and the typical water conditions you will encounter.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power system of the trolling motor, commonly available in 12V, 24V, and 36V. This spec is important because it affects the motor's power and battery life. A 12V system is suitable for smaller boats and lighter use, while 24V and 36V systems provide more power and longer run times, ideal for larger boats and more demanding conditions. Choose the voltage based on your boat size and how long you plan to use the motor during your trips.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller, and it is crucial for ensuring the motor stays submerged at the right depth. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, while a too-long shaft can be cumbersome. For bow-mounted motors, measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline and add 20 inches. For transom-mounted motors, measure from the top of the transom to the waterline and add 16-20 inches. Choose a shaft length that keeps the motor submerged in various water conditions.
Control TypeControl type refers to how you operate the trolling motor, with options including hand control, foot control, and remote control. This spec is important because it affects your convenience and fishing style. Hand control is straightforward and less expensive, foot control allows for hands-free operation, and remote control offers the most flexibility and ease of use. Consider your fishing habits and personal preference when choosing the control type.
Mounting LocationMounting location refers to where the trolling motor is installed on your boat, either at the bow (front) or transom (rear). This is important because it affects the boat's maneuverability and control. Bow-mounted motors provide better control and are preferred for larger boats and serious anglers, while transom-mounted motors are easier to install and suitable for smaller boats. Choose the mounting location based on your boat size and how you plan to use the motor.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the trolling motor can run on a single charge, which is crucial for planning your fishing trips. It depends on the motor's power consumption and the battery capacity. Higher voltage systems (24V and 36V) generally offer longer battery life. To pick the right battery life, consider how long you typically spend on the water and whether you have access to recharge the battery during your trips.

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