Here we have a nice selection of our favorite Trolling Motors. The 2 largest brands are Minn-Kota and Motorguide and they both offer quality and good customer service. However there are many other Brands of trolling motors out there that are less expensive but we have not tested any of them and cannot give our opinion on them. The reason there are Fresh water motors and Saltwater Motors is because the Saltwater Motors have corrosion resistant elements in the motor unit. Shop online or in Stores, for the best prices and selection look at large online marketplaces such Walmart, Bass pro, Cabelas, Amazon, E Bay Ect. For more information on Choosing a motor and battery visit our page Batteries and Motors FAQ.
Our recommended size and specs for a motor are:
12V - 55Lb Thrust - 42" Shaft - VARIABLE Speed Control. Variable Speed control is digital is a continuous flow as you twist the tiller handle. The 5/3 Hand Control means you have 5 pre-set speeds in forward and 3 in reverse. The 5/3 hand control works fine but the you just cant "dial-in" your speed exactly where you want it, which comes in handy when attempting reverse static positioning against the wind. A 36" shaft is also fine but you won't be able to comfortably reach the tiller if you are standing up OR sitting higher up on an elevated pedestal like a casting stool. As long as you intend to only steer while sitting in a standard chair then a 36" shaft is just fine.
Pay Attention to drop down menus and options if ordering online so you select a motor with the Specs you desire. I have to say the best place to buy a motor is probably on Bass Pro SHops and Cabelas because they have a drop-down box that lets you choose Variable or Non Variable thrust control as well as the shaft length and thrust. The problem with ordering from Walmart or some other online retailers is that you don't know if the motor is variable thrust control or a 5/3 speed, you have to do a search of the listed Model Number to be 100% sure.
Our recommended size and specs for a motor are:
12V - 55Lb Thrust - 42" Shaft - VARIABLE Speed Control. Variable Speed control is digital is a continuous flow as you twist the tiller handle. The 5/3 Hand Control means you have 5 pre-set speeds in forward and 3 in reverse. The 5/3 hand control works fine but the you just cant "dial-in" your speed exactly where you want it, which comes in handy when attempting reverse static positioning against the wind. A 36" shaft is also fine but you won't be able to comfortably reach the tiller if you are standing up OR sitting higher up on an elevated pedestal like a casting stool. As long as you intend to only steer while sitting in a standard chair then a 36" shaft is just fine.
Pay Attention to drop down menus and options if ordering online so you select a motor with the Specs you desire. I have to say the best place to buy a motor is probably on Bass Pro SHops and Cabelas because they have a drop-down box that lets you choose Variable or Non Variable thrust control as well as the shaft length and thrust. The problem with ordering from Walmart or some other online retailers is that you don't know if the motor is variable thrust control or a 5/3 speed, you have to do a search of the listed Model Number to be 100% sure.
Trolling Motors
Deep Cycle Batteries
When it comes to Marine Deep Cycle Batteries the first thing you want to do is make sure you you get a straight Deep Cycle and not battery labeled as "Dual Purpose". Dual Purpose Batteries are designed for starting applications and have a smaller Deep Cycle capacity. They range in sizes from 24DC to 31DC. We recommend going for the smaller sizes 24DC and 27DC so they are lighter and easier to carry. One battery is enough but if feel you must go out with a lot of reserve power we do recommend buying 2 smaller (size 24/27) batteries then one bigger one since you will be able to gauge exactly how much power you have when you switch to your back-up along with having more overall power when the new battery start at 12V once again. Personally we have always used the Everstart from Walmart and recommend going with an under $100 battery VS a battery that may cost 2-3 times as much. If you follow these links a lot of times it will say OUT OF STOCK or Not Available, that is only because it is rare for anyone to actually ship a deep cycle battery, you have to buy them in a physical store. Walmart, AutoZone, Home Depot all the batteries are virtually the same so I recommend just shopping for price. To find out more information on our strategy and tips when choosing a battery size and type visit our page Batteries and Motors FAQ.
Motor/Battery Plugs
While certainly not necessary at all these time of connections make it easier and faster to deliver a firm connection to your battery. While most 12V Motors have 10 Gauge Wires both 8 Gauge and 10 Gauge Connectors will work fine with any motor. To see a video and learn more visit our page: Batteries and Motors FAQ.