A trolling motor is one of the most valuable pieces of equipment you can install on your kayak. It is very flexible and can make kayaking even more enjoyable.
If you want an effortlessly fast and reliable way of kayaking, then you need a trolling motor. When it comes to fishing and boating, you a top-notch trolling motor is of great help as well as of great use as it keeps your boat powered and running.
Since the engine plays a vital role in ensuring that your fishing and boating experience is enjoyable and safe, it’s essential that you purchase the best trolling motor that is not very reliable but also very functional.
When researching for a new trolling motor, there are many options and styles available that the shopping experience can become overwhelming. With the different models on display, all of which come with various price tags choosing one of the best trolling motors for your kayak can be confusing.
Below are excellent trolling motor that will take the guesswork out of your research.
Best Trolling Motor For Kayak
1. Minn Kota Endura C2-30
Most anglers know the name ‘Endura’ for its sturdiness and high-quality. The product is a freshwater trolling motor that comes with multiple speeds for forward and reverses movements.
The telescopic handle is ergonomic for more comfort and simplicity, and the composite shaft is durable and guaranteed not to corrode, kink or break. This trolling motor is built to resist UV rays, warping, and flexing.
The Minn Kota trolling motor has a stable shaft that ensures that it is one of the most enduring trolling motors available. It has a great design that lets you steer the engine in any direction you choose. It is an entirely a motor that won’t disturb the aquatic life in your area, and you can also control the speeds with ease.
Thrust and power are the essential features of any trolling motor, and this Endura C2 30 model comes with a 30 lbs thrust and a 30″ shaft length that will not let you down.
The Minn Kota C2 30 is under 16 feet and will provide all the thrust you will need. Trolling with this motor is silent and efficient, even at the highest speed settings, the engine stays quiet.
Equipped with telescopic handles that can expand outwards or collapsed inwards into a small compact handle, the design doesn’t comprise the strength of this trolling motor.
The telescopic tube fits well into each other and locks into place after expanding. When the handle is fully expanded, it offers more torque than when it is collapsed. More torque ensures faster and more comfortable steering.
Made of a light composite shaft material the shaft offers excellent transmission without taking too much of the battery power.
This means that the shaft provides the strength that a regular steel shaft would normally provide, but with the weight of aluminum. The shaft is almost indestructible and will take many hits from underwater rubble without any damage.
Pros:
- Equipped with a 30-inch shaft
- 6-inch telescoping handle
- It is lightweight
- Cool quiet power maximizes battery life
- Works on kayaks or canoes
- 5 forward speeds, 3 reverse speeds for maximum control
Cons:
- Not great with winds due to its lightweight
2. Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor
The Newport trolling motor produces a lot of power at a mid-range price. Made of stainless steel, zinc, and aluminum the product is built to saltwater friendly.
Even if you don’t regularly take your kayak into saltwater regions, having the Newport installed means you can explore without giving it much thought.
This product is durable and comes with a nylon mount that was built for durability and fast installation on your boat or inflatable.
You can swiftly handle changes in the water with an attached 30-inch adjustable shaft. It is also easy to steer whether on fresh or salt water. Simply grab the 6-inch telescoping handle, and you are good to go.
With 55 lb of thrust, this trolling motor provides a lot of energy for a small boat. This thrust and power mean that you can quickly get to your destination without any fuss.
Equipped with 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds, the speed of the trolling motor can be reduced quickly. You can also use it with any 12-volt marine or deep-cycle battery.
The Newport trolling motor offers an inbuilt 5-point LED battery meter. This practical feature will save you a lot of guesswork while on the water. With the battery meter, you get exact information on your boat’s battery life on every outing.
The weight is approximately 23.2 pounds, making it a relatively lightweight trolling motor compared to others in the market. The motor head is constructed solely out of aluminum.
Pros:
- High thrust and power
- 30-inch composite shaft
- 8 speeds (5 forward & 3 reverse)
- DC 12V
- Durable with a 6-inch telescoping handle
Cons:
- Higher power means it can disturb the water and the fish
3. Minn Kota Endura C2-55
The Minn Kota Endura C2 55 trolling motor is resilient and ideal if you want to cover a large area without putting in so much energy paddling.
The trolling motor can be reliably secured with a lock bracket that makes the installation easier. It runs quietly, which also helps in maximizing the battery’s power. The Minn Kota Endura C2 55 also provides an excellent kayaking experience because it is durability and lightweight.
The trolling motor combines functionality and precision with a powerful shaft and comfortable hand control. These features make it a longer lasting, sturdy product.
Minn Kota Endura C2-55 generates less noise than many other trolling motors. It also produces less heat and runs cool with large commutators, windings, and brushes. The engine also has a longer life and better thrust.
The shaft is stronger than steel. It is so indestructible it will not break, kink or corrode no matter the impact-that is why the manufacturers have guaranteed it for life.
The performance of this product has been ranked as reliable by many users. The thrust models (30, 40, and 45) are outfitted with a power prop that delivers the extra power required to go through heavy vegetation. It comes with a telescoping handle that is convenient and comfortable for steering.
Pros:
- Light in weight
- Aluminum shaft for easy height adjustment
- Durable and Inexpensive
- Comfortable and convenient steering
Cons:
- No tilt handle
4. Outsunny 12V Transom Mounted Trolling Motor
The Outsunny trolling motor is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trolling motors today. With this Trolling Motor, you can be guaranteed of excellent fishing experience. This top quality motor has been specially designed for people who fancy angling near the lake. Nevertheless, this does not imply that this top-notch trolling motor does not perform well in the open lake.
The model is constructed using resilient components such as the aluminum head. Therefore, you can be certain that this trolling motor will last for many years.
With this model, you have the freedom of selecting from 8 different speed variations; out of the 8 options, 3 are reserved for reverse settings. Moreover, this Motor has the capability of providing up to 50 LBS. of thrust.
The product features 10 locking positions thus making it very easier for you to adjust its height. The manufacturers of this top quality motor have also ensured that the model features a handle with a soft grip so as to offer greater convenience as well as comfort. Lastly, the trolling motor boasts of 3 durable blade propellers and it comes at a very reasonable price.
5. Goplus 551bs Freshwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor 36″ Shaft
If you’re looking out for the finest electric trolling motor, then you should consider the Goplus 551bs Freshwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor 36″ Shaft. The model features 5 forward speeds as well as 3 reverse speeds.
Therefore, you will not have to worry about navigating to your fishing destination. The model is specially designed for small-medium boats, such as Tenders, Jon boats, Inflatables, Canoes, Gheenoes, and Kayaks with brackets. You can easily and comfortably control this top quality trolling motor easily as it features six-inch telescoping handle that is very adjustable.
Moreover, its 3-blade weedless propeller guarantees smooth movement through underwater grass and marsh. Besides, you will not be disappointed with the performance of this motor on freshwater applications.
In additions, this top quality motor features 10 points LED lights battery indicators. The indicators will let you know the total power left when you’re in the waters. Another good thing about this top quality model is that it features an operational user manual. This ensures that setting it up as well as using it won’t be a problem.
Lastly, the model’s maximum thrust is 551bs which is quite sufficient for propelling your boat.
6. Saturn 55 Lbs Short-Shaft Electric Trolling Motor
If you’re looking out for a very powerful motor that can be optimized by a conventional 12V battery, then you should consider the Saturn 55 Lbs Short-Shaft Electric Trolling Motor as it offers something that you may like. This top-notch model is specially designed for inflatable boats, kayak, canoes, etc.
It is very powerful and it also comes with many top quality features. The model features a specially designed adjustable depth collar that permits you to set the motor incorrect depth.
The model also features a handle that is very adaptable so as to enable you to maneuver it accurately.
Furthermore, it the handle also features the telescope throttle tilting design so as to enable you to operate it very easily and also shift the speed in second.
The model comes with five-speed level for forward and three levels for reverse. Moreover, it also features a battery reader that displays the battery level and its Special Composite Shaft is not only very flexible but also very strong.
Furthermore, it also features an Extendable Handle that provides great control. The Saturn 55 Lbs trolling motor produces very low noises and it also features the necessary speed controls.
The model’s transom mounting system offers you the chance to mount it with different boat models while its composite shaft is extremely rigid to make it durable.
Lastly, the product has a battery indicator that is very accurate to help you determine the battery’s lifetime. The Saturn 55 Lbs Short-Shaft Motor is undoubtedly a reliable trolling motor you will enjoy using.
7. Watersnake FWDR54-48 Shadow Bow Mount Foot Control Motor
If purchasing the finest trolling motor is on top of your list then you should consider the Water snake Shadow 541b Trolling motor. It is a very efficient model that has all the features that a great model should have.
The greatest thing about this top-notch trolling motor is certainly its hand’s free maneuvering with this trolling motor. You ‘will not have to use your hands to maneuver the boat as it features foot pedals that let you navigate your way through.
The pedals help to regulate the speed as the model’s speed is determined by the applied pressure. This top quality product is very easy to operate, and you will therefore not have to read the user manuals to operate it.
The product feature 3- blade propellers that are very durable and also powerful enough to move through hurdles such as weed.
The Water snake Shadow FWDR is specially constructed using resilient alloy & steel and it has the capability of offering up to 54 lbs of thrust.
Moreover, the model also thrives in the safety department as the manufacturers have elegantly ensured that its circuit board is water-resistant.
Lastly, the model’s safety switch automatically cuts off when putting away.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Trolling Motor
Every angler knows that the easiest way to ruin a good fishing hole is to come thundering in with a loud gas-powered motor. This is the fastest way to send fish scampering off to safer waters. Unfortunately, if you are going fishing on a boat, you are likely to need one with a trolling motor.
In fact, there are several things that you will need to succeed: A fishing rod or two dozens of bait. A boat trolling motor as things typically stand, you choose your fishing rods and bait in accordance with the kind of fishing you intend to do. Your boat and motor come hand in hand mostly because of the Coast Guard rating on your hull.
Additionally, the boat and trailer will most likely be matched by hull weight and length. That leaves you with the trolling motor.
How do you choose the right trolling motor?
How to choose a trolling motor or finding and buying the right trolling motor takes a bit more thought than many newbie anglers may think.
Whereas most dealers will tell you to go with the biggest, worst trolling motor. You can find, the truth is, there are other aspects that you must take into account if you are to walk away with something that will not only serve you but serve you well.
Here are some important tips on how to choose a trolling motor:
The thrust must be enough for your boat. The motor will be doing the propelling. As such, thrust is the measure of just how much it can propel your boat through the water.
This thrust is typically measured in pounds (pounds of thrust). What this means is that the bigger your boat, the more thrust it will need. Experts say that you should have at least 5 pounds of thrust from your trolling motor for every 200 pounds of weight on your boat.
So, if you want to determine how much thrust your trolling motor should have, all you have to do is take the total amount of weight. Your boat will weigh (estimated weight plus the maximum weight capacity) and divide that number by 5. The answer is the thrust you will need from your trolling motor.
What about the voltage?
The answer to this question is almost similar to the thrust issue: how much power do you need in the water? Typically, trolling motors come in a variety of three different voltages: 12, 24 and 36 volts.
The 12-volt motors run on a single 12-volt battery while the 24-volt motors use two 12 volt batteries and the 36-volt motors use three 12 volt batteries. Of the three, the 12-volt trolling motors are the least powerful.
They are only good for anglers who use kayaks, dinghies, canoes and only fish for short periods of time. If on the other hand, you use a large fishing boat and enjoy long periods of fishing during the season, then you might want to settle on either the 24 or the 36-volt trolling motor.
Should it be hand or foot controlled?
This is a matter of convenience. Bass anglers who prefer to move on the deck as they cast from the bow are much better off with foot controlled trolling motors. For the most part, these kinds of motors are perfect for all types of fishing as they free up your hands.
How to Install a Trolling Motor – on Youtube Video
The problem is that they are expensive. They take too much deck space sometimes they are slow to respond which brings us to the other type of trolling motor: hand controlled.
These work from the bow of your boat and require you to have your hands on them constantly. This can be a turn off for some anglers but if you think about it, it isn’t that big of an issue in the long run considering how much you will save.
Would you rather have a bow or transom mounted the motor?
Trolling motors are typically available as bow mounts or transom mounts. Bow mounts are installed on the front of the boat and offer you great maneuverability.
However, they are more suitable for larger boats. Transom mounted motors are clamped to the stern and can fit on any type of boat but are best suited for smaller crafts. Their main drawback is that they off less maneuverability.
The best way to decide between the two is to use the size of your boat. If it is anything above 14 feet, then you should use a bow mount.
Transom motors best serve Dinghies, canoes, and kayaks. As far as technology is concerned, the best is yet to come in the trolling motors sector. Choose one that suits your style of fishing and needs as opposed to ‘the biggest you can get your hands on.
Conclusion
A great trolling motor is a lifesaver for any a fisherman or angler. A great trolling should be super silent and should not produce any vibrations. Moreover, it should also be easy to design, very lightweight, versatile as well as very efficient.
The above mentioned trolling motors are undoubtedly the best trolling-motors on the market today as they are very reliable, very efficient, very flexible and also very easy to maneuver.
The models are available on Amazon at very reasonable prices. By choosing any of the models, you will be assured of a great fishing or angling expedition that will be not only very successful but also very satisfying.
The Minn Kota Endura C2-30 is a great trolling motor for your kayak. It is quiet, long enough and doesn’t take up too much space. Portability is one of its best features.
The Newport electric trolling motor, on the other hand, is packed with power and can also handle saltwater just as great as freshwater. It is definitely the best choice for serious water activities.
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