Best Trolling Motor for Kayak

Kayak trolling motors are great, saving your energy and not letting you feel tired. More importantly, they provide steady speed when the bait is already in the water, attracting the fish. For their compact size, efficiency, and quiet performance, these kayaking gears earned their position in the kayaking industry.

Every kayaker wants to spend several hours fishing instead of paddling more. Having the best trolling motor for a kayak lets you put minimal effort into getting the best fishing spots. Also, you will have a relaxing fishing trip because trolling motors minimize mechanical work.

The market is full of different sizes and models of trolling motors. They all claim to be the best, but you should buy the one that meets your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we help you find out the best kayak trolling motor so you can spend more time fishing.

What is a Trolling Motor?

A trolling motor for a kayak is a noiseless and compact engine mounted on a brass boat's bow. For its quiet performance, fishes don’t get scared.

An angler can adjust a trolling motor speed virtually silently instead of making noise. Thus, exploring the water for fishing becomes easier.

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The Benefit of Using a Trolling Motor

The straightforward answer is, trolling motor improves your finishing productivity and efficiency. These machines are a fine accessory for a wide range of activities. Here are the key benefits of using a trolling motor.

• Makes You an Effective Angler
• Eliminates Splashes or Wakes
• Keeps Your Hands Free
  

Makes You an Effective Angler

Reaching your favorite fishing spot will be much easier when you have a trolling motor in your kayak. Also, it helps you preserve energy as you are not paddling. Thus, you can concentrate on setting up the rod and tackle, saving valuable time.

Eliminates Splashes or Wakes

You will hardly find any kayaker who wants splashes or wakes in the water while fishing. More splashes or wakes scare the fish, and fishing becomes difficult. Trolling motors create less motion in the water; you don’t have to worry about water splashing. This way, fishes will not get scared, and you will catch more fish.

Another important thing is these motors run silently. As a result, you can approach the fishing spot silently without worrying about getting your prey away.

Keeps Your Hands Free

With a trolling motor in your kayak, paddling becomes unnecessary. This is one of the biggest benefits of trolling motors. Since you don’t need to paddle, your hands remain free for other tasks such as holding a fishing rod. Moreover, you will not feel fatigued in your hand. Furthermore, it confirms more time per trip.

How We Choose the Best Fishing Kayaks with Motor

Our expert team extensively researched the kayaking market to find the best trolling motor for kayak. They selected 31 models, interviewed 9 professional kayakers, noted features and drawbacks of the selected models.

Then we went through the customer review to learn more about the trolling motors. Before finalizing the 10 best products, they again visited the professionals and considered their advice and recommendations.

Finally, end with the list of the 10 best fishing kayaks with motors.

10 Best Trolling Motor for Kayak Reviews 2022

Trolling motors are manufactured to make your kayaking experience comfortable. Our enlisted kayak trolling motors are highly appreciated by professionals and beginners for their reliable performance.

Best Overall: Newport Vessels 55 lbs. Thrust Trolling Motor

Pretty much every necessary feature is available in the Newport Vessels 55 lbs. Thrust Trolling Motor to make your kayaking session productive.

Product Feature:

Product Specifications:

Product Description & Performance

With a 12V trolling motor, it offers excellent efficiency and power to any kayaker. High-quality material construction helps it to run for a whole day without overheating. Also, you can adjust and lock the height, mount angle, and direction without trouble as per your requirement.

“Finding the best trolling motor for a kayak that is compatible for both saltwater and freshwater is quite challenging.”

It is built with future-proofing performance in mind. For many years, the motor will give you corrosion-proof performance for its saltwater corrosion-proof service. This motor comes with an 8-speed option: 5 forward and 3 reverse, allowing you to control the kayak easily. Your kayak will move with great low-end torque with its 3 blade propeller.

Best for Freshwater: Minn Kota Endura C2 Freshwater Trolling Motor

Fishing will be a lot easier when the Minn Kota Endura C2 Trolling Motor is installed in your kayak. It is one of the popular motors for small to medium-sized watercraft.

Product Feature:

Product Specifications:

Product Description & Performance

The shaft length is 30”, which is the key benefit of this trolling motor. For its long enough built, the propeller submerges underwater in different conditions. Moreover, it is made of indestructible material, offering quality service for many years to come.

“It is specifically designed for freshwater only and can be mounted on transoms without trouble. Considering its impressive features, the price is also affordable.”

The trolling motor has 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings. Forwarding your kayak faster with a lighter load and slower with a heavy load will be easier due to the speed options. Also, whether you are standing or sitting, the 6” telescoping handle offers comfortable, quick, and intuitive control over your kayak.

More importantly, the handle can be collapsed according to your preference.

Best for Saltwater: PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor

Quiet performance from the trolling motor is significantly required. Your kayaking experience will get disturbed if your installed motor creates noise. The PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor doesn’t create much sound, helping you explore the water silently.

Product Feature:

• 3 bladed propeller
• 6" telescoping adjustable handle
• Reinforced nylon bracket

Product Specifications:

Product Description & Performance

A 3 blade propeller is used to enhance efficiency and motivation while kayaking. The blades are sharp, helping to get rid of underwater plants, stones, and seaweed. Also, the package consists of a 2 blade propeller for your convenience.

“Highest quality materials of the PEXMOR Trolling Motor ensures that you will get many years of service. Moreover, the materials are corrosion-proof, guaranteeing durability.”

The head is durable aluminum, providing you stability when driving. Moreover, the nylon bracket fiberglass composite shaft confirms that this motor will give you reliable service. It consists of a LED battery indicator informing you about the battery capacity. Furthermore, you will get a big hint with the help of the red and green lights.

Best for Durability: Newport Vessels Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor

The Newport Vessels Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor is manufactured to give you 100% satisfaction with its performance. It promotes and optimizes the performance of all kayaks and canoes with a tried and true design.

Product Feature:

Product Specifications:

Product Description & Performance

It consists of a 24” height adjustable shaft, allowing required depth placement on different watercraft. Also, battery placement is flexible with its extra-long 5 ft. 6 in. battery cable. Moreover, it ensures compatibility with almost all transom-mounted kayaks.

“Adjusting the speed as per surfing mode is so simple with this trolling motor’s 5 forward and 3 backward speed settings.”

The weight of this motor is only 23 lbs. not putting any additional weight in your kayak. Additionally, the manufacturer adds 3 blade propellers of 10” diameter, reducing drag and balancing efficiency.

You can also learn about the battery status from the built-in bright blue 5 LED battery indicator and charge accordingly. This trolling motor features a 24” Fiberglass Composite Shaft that doesn’t decompose for its quality construction.

Best Multi-purpose: U-BCOO 8 Speed Saltwater Trolling Motor

If you are looking for a multi-purpose option, the UBCOO 8 Speed Saltwater Trolling motor will meet all your expectations. It is lightweight, offers high performance, and the installation process is effortless. The corrosion-resistant feature allows you to go for a kayak in the saltwater without hesitation.

Product Feature:

• Telescopic handle
• 1-10 level LED power display
• Full copper enameled wire motor

Product Specifications:

• Weight: 9.2 KG
• Material: Stainless Steel, Aluminum
• Operation Mode: Electric
• Recommended Uses for Product: For Salt Water, For Fishing Boats
• Voltage: 12 V

Product Description & Performance:

Being lightweight and compact, you will get exceptional speed from the motor. It is equipped with 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings for smooth steering and maneuvering. Also, the 4” long handle is extendable for easy angle adjustment when kayaking.

“The motor is thoughtfully engineered with full copper enameled wire, making it more long-lasting. Besides, it saves energy efficiently and provides quiet performance.”

Operating the unit is extremely easy. The attachment technology lets you install it in any watercraft quickly. Just make sure your kayak has an attachment plate. It comes with a swivel action feature, allowing complete directional control even at high thrust. The height setting is also simple and allows 180° control. Additionally, the handle is convenient to grip and perfectly fits the hands.

Best for First-time Users: Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor

The Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor has a powerful motor, a good thrust, and is simple. It is straightforward to install and great for beginners. Clean and elegant design adds style to your boat. This has a sturdy build, keeping the motor free from damage.

Product Feature:

• Digital voltage meter
• Directional lock
• Sturdy, simple design

Product Specifications:

• Weight: 27 lbs.
• Material: Stainless Steel, Alloy
• Operation Mode: Electric
• Recommended Uses for Product: For Canoe, For Sport Fishing boats, For Salt Water, For Fishing Boats, Versatility
• Voltage: 12 Volts

Product Description & Performance:

A special corrosion-resistant component is used in the shaft, keeping it rust-free. Moreover, due to the rest-free feature, it can be extensively used in saltwater. Despite having a simple design, it features an LED battery reader, giving the correct status of the battery.

“Maximum comfort is guaranteed with the trolling motor because of the extendable telescopic handle. Also, the propeller blades are too sharp. So, you can use it for several hours without a break as seaweed can’t stop your journey.”

This trolling motor gives a pretty satisfying and long-lasting performance. It doesn’t heat up even after running for several hours. In addition, the motor provides good speed and allows you to go faster or slower using the speed adjuster.

Best for Long Distance Kayaking: Minn Kota Edge Freshwater Trolling Motor

The Minn Kota Freshwater Trolling Motor would be the best solution for kayakers who need love to cover and explore long distances. Also, give this motor a pass if you want to plant your next kayaking trip on freshwater.

Product Feature:

• 45 lbs. thrust
• Cable steer foot paddle
• Indestructible composite shaft

Product Specifications:

• Weight: 18 lbs.
• Dimension: 63” x 9.5” x 20.38”
• Voltage: 12 V
• Recommended Uses for Products: Freshwater, Boating, Fishing, Outdoor Lifestyle
• Material: Anodized Aluminum

Product Description & Performance

Despite compact and lightweight construction, this trolling motor is powerful enough. The propeller is powerful enough, delivering extra energy to push your kayak into heavy vegetation.

“When kayaking, select the right speed from the 5-speed setting using the dial. Controlling your kayak will be convenient with the different speed setting option.”

It features a latch and door bracket, giving you a rock-solid grip when you stow the trolling motor. One of the exceptional features of this motor is the cable steer foot pedal. It includes a speed control feature, letting you control the speed conveniently. Moreover, high-impact composite material makes the foot pedal, ensuring unparalleled durability.

Best Durable: AQUOS Haswing 12V or 24V Transom Trolling Motor

Designed for ultimate durability, the AQUOS Haswing Transom Trolling Motor is powerful and compact. Orientation is simple, and portability is also easy for its collapsible tiller handle along with the lightweight feature.

Product Feature:

• 35.4” aluminum shaft length
• 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings
• 110° folding handle

Product Specifications:

• Weight:
• Material: Aluminum, Metal
• Operation Mode: Electric
• Voltage: 12 Volts
• Recommended Uses for Products: For Freshwater, For Saltwater

Product Description & Performance

Exact speed control is crucial when fishing. You will love to know that this trolling motor provides the necessary speed with its 8-speed setting. You can move forward and reverse with 5 and 3-speed settings, respectively. Moreover, it doesn’t generate much sound while working; you can focus on your prey without a problem. Furthermore, the prey will never hear you are coming as it won’t create a water splash.

“Buying a trolling motor which can be operated while seated is crucial. It is smartly designed and allows you to operate either standing or seating.”

You can install the trolling motor regardless of water type. A 12-volt deep cycle battery powers the 3 blade propeller, and it is also responsible for ensuring optimum performance. The kayaker will achieve better acceleration due to the sharp propeller blades. Besides, the incorporated LED power reader provides the accurate status of the available battery power. It helps you plan a convenient fishing trip.

Best Lightweight Trolling Motor: Watersnake T24 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor

Simplicity at its best – this motto perfectly matches the Watersnake T24 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor. It is loaded with several clever features, making your kayaking fishing experience enjoyable, memorable and comfortable

Product Feature:

• Stainless steel propeller shaft
• Weedless 2-blade propeller
• Lightweight

Product Specifications:

• Weight: 4.85 lbs.
• Recommended Uses for Product: For Inflatable Boats, For Canoe, For Salt Water, For Fishing Boats
• Operation Mode: Electric
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Voltage: 12 Volts

Product Description & Dimension

The motor has an integrated, thicker ergonomic, and stylish grip for the tiller handle. You will also find a digital meter display in the head, assisting you in monitoring the battery status. Its grips on the alloy transom mount are also updated so that you can effortlessly attach and secure the motor.

“Use this trolling motor in your kayaks, dinghies, canoes, inflatable boats, etc. It is reasonably easy to control the speed with 2 forward and 2 reverse speeds.”

Reinforced with materials, effectively resisting flexing, UV damage, and warping for improved longevity. The motor is powerful enough to be used in both bigger and smaller kayaks. You won’t have to sit while cruising through tough marine weed because of the 2 blade propeller that provides the required energy.

Best Ease of Use: Goplus 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor

Like all other standard trolling motors, it also comes with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds. It has a comfortable grip, ensuring that the Goplus 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor will give you a smooth ride and easy control of the wate

Product Feature:

• 86 lb thrust trolling motor
• Adjustable position mounting bracket
• 1-10 LED light

Product Specifications:

• Weight:
• Material: Aluminum
• Operation Mode: Electric
• Recommended Uses for Product: For Fresh Water, For SailBoats, For Salt Water
• Voltage: 12 Volts

Product Description & Performance

It is equipped with a 10 point LED light battery life indicator, helping you avoid low battery status when kayaking, canoeing, or fishing. Moreover, this electric trolling motor has 46/55/86LBS pound thrust, giving you lots of power to move the kayak with solid force.

“The control dial gives you freedom of controlling your watercraft for a smooth and impressively adjustable ride.”

Every kayaker wants a durable trolling motor that can give efficient service for a long time. The good news is it resists damage, warping, and bending. It is because durable die-cast aluminum heads and reinforced composite materials are used for construction.

11 Hacks of Buying a trolling motor for kayak

Having the best trolling motor for kayak can make your kayaking experience more fun than you expect. All trolling motors are not built to last and of the same quality. Also, some other considerations play a crucial role in meeting your expectations.

This section discussed 11 hacks that will help you find the best-suited trolling motor for your kayak.

#01 Blades ‍Size & Number of Blades

Most trolling motors consist of either 2 or 3 propeller blades. More propeller blades mean a smoother and steady ride without noise. Also, cruising within the water with seaweed or lots of grass becomes easy.

Two-blade propellers: Trolling motors with 2 propeller blades are suitable for general purposes.

Three-blade propellers: 3-blade propeller trolling motors are much more efficient. Also, they don’t create much noise. That is why they are mainly used for fishing kayaks.

In terms of blade size, make sure the diameter is 3” – 3.5”. Another important thing is that the blade should be made of durable material and come with a manufacturer warranty.

Gears/Different Speed Settings

Speed settings will let you control the kayak more easily. Moreover, you can get more efficient performance from the battery by adjusting the speed.

Generally, most trolling motors are available with 8-speed settings: 5 for forward and 3 for reverse. In comparison, some other models have more minor speed settings meaning less control over the kayak.

Although, less speed setting is not a deal-breaker. But if your budget allows, go with a high-speed setting.

#03 Motor Size/Motor Power

Before buying a trolling motor, most kayakers ask one common question,” how powerful a trolling motor should I choose?”

The answer is – “a lot less than your expectation.”

Here, the fact is, an underpowered trolling motor will help you go faster on the water than paddling.

Don’t think that your kayak's weight and length don’t play a role in considering the thrust needed to move your kayak; they do have an impact, but the thumb rule is:

“2 lbs of thrust is necessary for 100 lbs. of weight.”

It means a 200 lbs. of thrust can move 1000 lbs. of weight without hassle. Generally, kayaks don’t come with that much weight.

So, a higher thrust rate doesn’t mean higher speed. With a trolling motor of higher thrust, you can easily reach and maintain the highest speed in different water types.

#04 Battery capacity

Trolling motors for a kayak run on batteries. However, larger watercraft such as bass boats require a gas motor.

You will find kayak trolling motors with different battery options: Lithium, nickel-metal hydride, sealed lead acid. Among these 3 options, Lithium is the best option. Why?

Lithium is the lightest and most compact battery. For this reason, if your watercraft has major weight restrictions, Lithium can be the best solution. Lithium batteries Energy density is also more than other 2 competitors. Moreover, they are eco-friendly and offer extended hours of service per charge. Furthermore, recycling Lithium batteries is much possible at the end of their lifespan.

Make sure that 2 things are ensured.

One thing is your kayak has enough space available with the kayak’s maximum weight capacity.

The second thing is to select a model with an integrated battery indicator.

#05 Shaft Length

The thrust level and motor performance greatly depend on the shaft length. Choose a long enough shaft. This way, positioning the propeller at the required depth is ensured.

Too short a shaft will create much noise. On the other hand, a too long shaft increases the chance of hitting rocks and other things.

So, how to know which shaft length is ideal? The answer is to measure the length between the waterline and motor mount.

A few guidelines are:

• If the length is 10” or less, go with an approximately 30” shaft length
• If the length is 10” - 16”, go with an approximately 36” shaft length
• If the length is 16” – 20”, go with an approximately 42” shaft length

Ideally, buy a trolling motor that has an adjustable shaft length. Thus, you can adjust the length based on different water conditions.

#06 Types of Controls

A wide range of control types is available for trolling motors. Due to the purposeful use of trolling motors, you will find below 2 controlling types.

Motor Pedals: Motor pedals are moderately safe and the best option for personal use. It frees up hands, and accuracy is precise as well. The price range is also affordable.

Remote Control: Remote-controlled trolling motors are suitable for commercial use. Accuracy and efficiency are pretty much average, and they can be operated wherever you need. They are very safe to use and quite expensive.

#07 Trolling motor Weight

Weight is a significant factor when selecting gear for your fishing kayak. A trolling motor also comes with the mount, the battery, and the motor itself. While selecting a trolling motor, consider your kayak’s maximum weight capacity. Lightweight trolling motors are always a good option.

Mounting SystemL: The mounting system factor can become complicated in this case.

Transom: The transom mounting system provides a solid bar to mount the trolling motor. This mounting mechanism is adjustable, fitting in most kayaks.

Bow Mounted: Bow mounting system is not an ideal option for kayakers. Many designs of bow mounting mechanisms come with a sliding hinge, allowing them to raise or lower them into the water quickly.

Additional Features: You will find a trolling motor with additional features like silent operation, lever locks, telescopic handle, LED battery indicator, etc.

The prime responsibility of this feature is to let you use the motor easily and intuitively.

Warranty

All trolling motors don’t come with a warranty. Brands offer warranty in their trolling motor models. Cheap trolling motors don’t come with a warranty.

Most good-quality trolling motors have a warranty period. If any parts have malfunctioned and the motor is within the warranty, the manufacturer is bound to replace the part of the whole unit (if necessary).

Budget

Budget is one of the foremost considerations before buying any product, and it is no exception for trolling motors as well. Make a budget for your trolling motor. Select a model within the budget and ensure that it fits your requirement.

Saltwater Vs. Freshwater

Before buying a trolling motor, first think about the environment: saltwater or freshwater.

Some trolling motors are engineered for lakes, rivers, or other freshwater environments. In contrast, other units are suitable for seas, oceans, or different saltwater environments. You will also find some models that can be used on both freshwater and saltwater.

If you are thinking, what is the difference between saltwater and freshwater trolling motors?

Let me make it clear.

We all know that saltwater causes corrosion. Saltwater trolling motors are corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or copper.

On the other hand, you can use freshwater trolling motors only in freshwater environments. It would be best to use a freshwater trolling motor in the saltwater. Otherwise, the motor will be damaged.

Tilting vs. non-tilting driveshaft

Tilting driveshaft can easily be locked and lifted out in the water, and the propeller will not hit the ground.

Meanwhile, the non-tilting driveshaft will always remain vertical. They are good when kayaking rivers. But it can be a problem if you plan to kayak on beaches or shallow water.

What’s A Good Price for A Trolling Motor?

Generally, powerful and more featured trolling motors are expensive. It is also obvious that less powerful and featured motors are available at an affordable price range.

Undoubtedly, you will not think twice about investing more money on a premium quality trolling motor. Only make sure your selected product has all the essential features you need.

You may find a trolling motor that has a glow-in-dark handle or features 100 lbs. of thrust. Ask yourself which feature is crucial for you and make a buying decision.

Usually, transom-mounted hand-operated motors are less expensive than foot-operated trolling motors. You will need to cost $150 - $200 to buy a decent quality transom mounted motor. On the other hand, a good quality foot-operated trolling motor will cost you a minimum of $500.

Is It Legal to Put a Trolling Motor On a Kayak?

Yes, you can put a trolling motor on a kayak without hesitation since it is 100% legal in every US state.

If you are still confused, it would be best to check with local authorities. Kayak and kayaking gears registration is handled by the Department of Motor Vehicles or Natural Resources.

FAQ's

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, after reading this comprehensive guide, you can better understand how to choose the best trolling motor for kayak. Undoubtedly, you need to consider several factors while choosing the best product. The most important thing is to buy a model that meets your needs. Also, consider the environment you plan to kayak.

A trolling motor with variable speed settings and versatile performance on different water types would be an ideal choice. After installing a trolling motor in your kayak, don’t forget to visit your local authorities to check if trolling motor is legal in your state.

Choose any of the models from our enlisted products and make kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or other outdoor activities comfortable and enjoyable.