As an avid angler, I’ve come to realize just how crucial a good electric trolling motor is for a successful fishing trip. It’s not just about moving smoothly across the water; it’s about doing so with minimal fuss, letting me concentrate fully on the thrill of the catch, whether I’m in a serene lake, a flowing river, or the vast ocean.
Best Electric Trolling Motors
Choosing the right trolling motor is more than just picking one off the shelf. It’s about understanding the balance between power, represented by thrust, and how it matches the size and weight of my boat, alongside the conditions I’ll be facing out there. Battery life, how I can control it, and how quietly it operates are also key considerations.
After dedicating countless hours to research and hands-on testing, I’ve narrowed down the field to the top electric trolling motors that stand out for their performance, durability, and overall value.
Fishing is my passion, and having the right gear is paramount. That’s why I’ve sifted through the myriad of options out there to bring you a curated list of the best electric trolling motors. My aim? To ensure you have the information you need to pick the motor that will elevate your fishing game, based on thorough testing and a strict criterion for what makes a motor truly exceptional. Let’s get right to the heart of it and explore these top picks.
Minn Kota Terrova 1358814 Electric Trolling Motor
If you’re looking for a reliable electric trolling motor that offers excellent maneuverability, control, and long-lasting battery life, the Minn Kota Terrova is an excellent choice.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with the Minn Kota Terrova was excellent. The motor was easy to install, and the fallaway ramps and Lift-Assist design made it effortless to deploy and stow. The i-Pilot GPS was a game-changer, allowing us to lock onto fishing spots and control the motor with ease. The Weedless Wedge 2 Prop was also a standout feature, powering through weeds and vegetation without draining the battery.
However, we did find that the foot control was not included and had to be purchased separately, which added to the overall cost of the motor. Additionally, the motor is relatively heavy at 55 pounds, which may be a consideration for some boaters. Finally, the price point is higher than some other electric trolling motors on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality electric trolling motor with excellent features and long-lasting battery life, the Minn Kota Terrova is an excellent choice.
Minn Kota 1358856 Terrova Electric Trolling Motor
If you’re looking for a reliable electric trolling motor that’s easy to use and has all the features you need to make your fishing trips more enjoyable, the Minn Kota Terrova is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with the Minn Kota Terrova has been nothing short of excellent. The fallaway ramps and Lift-Assist design make it easy to deploy and stow the motor, and the low-profile electric foot pedal offers a wide range of options for steering and speed control. The i-Pilot Link system is also a great feature that allows you to control your motor from a distance, making it easier to navigate through different fishing spots without having to constantly adjust the motor’s speed and direction.
One thing to keep in mind is that the motor is a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to install and remove from your boat. Additionally, the price may be a bit steep for some users, especially those who are on a tight budget. However, we believe that the features and performance of the Minn Kota Terrova more than justify the price tag.
In terms of durability, we haven’t had any issues with the motor so far, but some users have reported problems with the motor’s longevity over time. This is something to keep in mind if you plan on using the motor frequently or in harsh conditions.
Minn Kota 1363742 Riptide Terrova
We highly recommend the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Saltwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor for those looking for a powerful and reliable trolling motor with advanced GPS features.
Pros
Cons
In our experience, the Minn Kota 1363742 Riptide Terrova is a top-of-the-line product that delivers on its promises. The advanced GPS features are incredibly helpful, and the motor itself is powerful and reliable. While it is on the expensive side and the remote issue can be frustrating, we believe that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re serious about fishing and want a trolling motor that can keep up with you, the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Saltwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is worth considering.
Minn Kota 1363747 Riptide Terrova
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing electric trolling motor for saltwater fishing, the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova is definitely worth considering.
Pros
Cons
The Minn Kota 1363747 Riptide Terrova is an excellent choice for serious saltwater anglers who want the best possible control and efficiency from their trolling motor. With its advanced GPS system, efficient Digital Maximizer, and powerful thrust, this motor is sure to help you catch more fish and enjoy your time on the water.
Minn Kota 1363706 Riptide Terrova
We highly recommend the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Saltwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor for those looking for a reliable and powerful trolling motor that can handle saltwater fishing with ease.
Pros
Cons
We were thoroughly impressed with the performance and features of the Minn Kota 1363706 Riptide Terrova Trolling Motor. The Digital Maximizer provided up to 5 times longer run time on a single battery charge, and we were able to dial in our exact speed with ease. The motor is made of durable aluminum and the white color looks great on our boat. Overall, we highly recommend this trolling motor for any serious saltwater angler.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best electric trolling motor, there are several features to consider. We have compiled a list of important factors to help you make an informed decision.
Thrust
Thrust refers to the amount of power the motor can generate to move the boat through the water. It is measured in pounds and should be chosen based on the size and weight of your boat. A general rule of thumb is to have at least 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of boat weight.
Battery Life
Electric trolling motors are powered by batteries, so battery life is an important consideration. Look for a motor with a battery that can last for the duration of your fishing trip. Consider purchasing a motor with a battery meter to monitor power levels throughout the day.
Shaft Length
Shaft length is another key factor to consider. The length of the shaft should be based on the height of your boat’s transom. A shaft that is too short will not provide enough depth for the propeller to function properly, while a shaft that is too long will create unnecessary drag and reduce speed.
Control Type
Electric trolling motors can be controlled in different ways, such as hand or foot pedals, wireless remote, or through a mobile app. Consider which control type is most comfortable and convenient for your fishing style.
Saltwater or Freshwater
Make sure to choose a motor that is appropriate for the type of water you will be fishing in. Saltwater motors are designed to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater, while freshwater motors are not.
Warranty
Finally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty will give you peace of mind and protect your investment. Look for a warranty that covers both the motor and battery.
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