Boating World

Shopping For A Trolling Motor

2008 Buyer's Guide: Accessories

by Randy Scott

Why You Need It

Stealth + Maneuverability = More Fish. That pretty much sums up why you need a trolling motor. Electric trolling motors are a quiet means of propulsion, allowing you to get within casting range without betraying your presence. A trolling motor’s nearly 360-degree mobility also allows you to precisely move the boat into and around tight areas where a regular motor can’t. And by tilting the boat’s primary outdrive upward, a trolling motor will permit access into shallower than normal water. Electric trolling motors also provide a quiet and fuel-free means of trolling. Finally, they are a relatively inexpensive backup should your regular motor quit working. Granted, they’re slow, but it sure beats using an oar.


What You Need To Know

Electric trolling motors rate power by “pounds of thrust,” not horsepower. Some experts recommend 5 pounds of thrust for every 200 pounds of boat and gear. If your selection falls between two power ranges, it’s best to step up, not down. Things to consider when deciding whether to move up to a higher-powered trolling motor include the boat’s weight (is it heavier than other boats of the same length?), number of people who will be boating (will there usually be more than one person on board?), how much stuff will be on board (will you stow a lot of gear?), and conditions in which you’ll be boating (will you use it in a heavy current or areas known to be windy?).

motorguide motorguidewater
MotorGuide Troll Motor W55 SW Wireless 5

Electric trolling motors are available in 12-, 24- or 36-volt units. The higher the voltage, the longer the motor will perform at maximum thrust. Deep-cycle marine batteries are preferred. You also have a choice between bow or transom mounts. Many people prefer bow mounts because it’s easier to push the lightweight bow around than the transom. A variety of shaft lengths are available, so be sure to get one that gives your prop enough bite without sacrificing your shallow-water access. If you fish in salt water, you should opt for a trolling motor specifically designed for corrosive environments. The most common means of steering are either hand or foot controls. Foot controls give hands-free usage, but have a slower response time and take up extra deck space. A host of features like remote-control autopilot, built-in sonar and battery gauges are also available.

minnkota minnwater
Minn Kota Terrova Trolling Motor 55, 48"

The Final Word

Just as an underpowered, gasoline-engine-powered boat will not perform up to expectations, an underpowered trolling motor will be just as disappointing, so be sure you get enough thrust. And don’t shoot yourself in the foot by scrimping on battery power. If you plan on using your trolling motor
a lot, opt for more high-tech, energy-efficient models.