best Kayak Trolling Motors

Best Kayak Trolling Motor 2021| Top 10 Reviewed

Kayaks need motors to be able to power and move about from one place to another. It is the motors that provide the thrust that these vessels need to operate and move around freely. Owing to the complicated nature of these motors, chances are that you mayt not able to pick the best kayak trolling motor.

That is why you need to be guided appropriately. We have prepared this guide specifically to aid with that. In our guide, we shall look into the best trolling motors for kayaks that money can buy at the moment. Then, we shall examine a couple of other questions that equally matter.

Table of Contents

At A Glance

ImageProduct TitleFeaturesPrice
Editor’s choice
Newport Vessels Kayak Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
Newport Vessels Kayak Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
  • Stainless-steel hardware for saltwater use
  • Top-notch customer service.
  • 24-inch fiberglass shaft.
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Best Performance
Minn Kota Endura C2 Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor
Minn Kota Endura C2 Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor
  • Telescoping handle.
  • Lever-lock bracket.
  • Indestructible Composite Shaft.
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Best For Saltwater
AQUOS Haswing White Bow Mount Trolling Motor
AQUOS Haswing White Bow Mount Trolling Motor
  • Engineered to run quieter
  • Wireless remote control
  • Easy Installation 
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Best Design
MotorGuide X3 Bow Mount Foot-Control 940200080 , Black
MotorGuide X3 Bow Mount Foot-Control 940200080 , Black
  • Patented Variable Ratio Steering
  • Ensure dependable performance
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Best in Price
Minn Kota Traxxis Transom Mount Trolling Motor
Minn Kota Traxxis Transom Mount Trolling Motor
  • Digital maximizer
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Easy to use
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What is the Best Kayak Trolling Motor?

#1 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor

best kayak trolling motor

For precise and reliable performances, you badly want to lay your hands on a motor that has a battery meter with indicator light. Well, this is the one we would vouch for. It not only comes equipped with this feature but also generates sufficient thrust for powering heavier vessels.

24-inch Fiberglass Shaft

At its core is the shaft that is manufactured using fiberglass. This shaft measures 24 inches and is subsequently long enough to reach the deepest depths. On account of this, the shaft also accords a lifetime of dependable performance for you. All for your own added peace of mind.

Variable Speeds

With this motor, it is possible for you to enjoy the dual benefits of variable speeds. These speeds are mainly brought about by the capacity of the motor to move in the forward and reverse directions. Moreover, the speeds are given to you at the 8 levels of options that place you in control of the rides.

All-aluminum Motor Head

Its head is manufactured using the Aluminum material. In addition to this material, the head also bears the stainless steel, Zinc, and Magnesium coatings, all of which are resistant to corrosion and other forms of damages. They hence last longer over and above delivering better services in the long run.

Positive Side
  • Accompanied by extra-long cables that facilitate the use
  • Distributes the weights optimally for exceptional performances
  • Manufactured by use of higher quality materials
  • Resists corrosion and other forms of damages
  • Stands taller to all the agents of damages and harsh impacts
Negative Side
  • Its weight is higher than the average

Also Read : Trolling Plate Pros & Cons

#2 Goplus Electric Trolling Motor 46/55/86 LBS Thrust Transom Mounted 8 Speed

Goplus-Electric-Trolling-Motor-465586-LBS-Thrust-Transom-Mounted

Looking for a motor that handles both salt and seawater fishing? Well, look to no other gadget than this one. It is appropriately structured and made to be able to deliver on that very end. Its handles also adjust to allow for easier and expedited operations on your part.

Propeller Depth Adjustable

It is possible for this gadget’s propeller to adjust and vary the depths accordingly. This it does chiefly by altering the positions of the clamps to accelerate or decelerate the speeds of motions. By virtue of this trait, the pleasure of awesome and reliable performances are indeed yours to leverage.

6” Adjustable Telescoping Handle

Its handle is both telescoping and adjustable at the same time. It also measures 6 inches and is hence sufficiently long enough to be able to get to the deepest portions of the water body. With this handle, it is indeed possible for you hence to handle many kinds of kayak fishing needs.

10 Points LED Lights Indicator

Also coming along is the LED light indicator that bears the 10-point graduations. As you may have guessed, the indicator notifies you of the amount of power that is left. Thus, it aids you in protecting your battery life to allow the same to take you further for longer.

Positive Side
  • Allows for more effective controls and engagements
  • Imbues some operational comforts as you move along
  • Reverses polarity and directions for ease of referencing
  • Available in a unique design that makes for easier handling
  • Sturdy and durable in equal measure
Negative Side
  • Likely to sustain damages when handled recklessly

#3 Minn Kota Endura C2 Endura C2 55 Thrust Trolling Motor

Minn-Kota-Endura-C2-Endura-C2-55-Trolling-Motor

Could it be that the only motor mount space that you have available at your disposal is the transom? Well, you have no better companion than this motor. It is so designed as to fit snugly on the transom. This is the flat surface that forms the stern of the boat.

Instant Backtrolling

Unlike your ordinary motors, this one allows for backtrolling i.e. hauling the fish targets in the reverse speeds. To do this, you will lift and rotate the directional indicator at the angle of 180°. The gadget reacts instantly to any prompts that may be leveled against it.

4:1 Articulate Steering

The 4:1 articulated steering gives you the power and the leeway to channel the item to the direction you desire to make use of at a time. Thanks to the existence of this steering, you will be sure to stay ahead of the game at all times. That way, there will be no chances of veering off course.

Digital Maximizer

A digital maximizer rounds up the awesome benefits and outstanding features that the gadget potentially brings along. Its purpose is mainly to boost the power of the battery output. This is a role it tackles effectively, by a whopping 5 times the stipulated amount. The end result is some expedited operations overall.

Positive Side
  • Stronger than the steel materials
  • Flexes on impacts to prevent the possibility of breaking apart
  • Neither kinks nor corrodes as other motors do
  • Maintains some coolness and quietness
  • Suffers less from the incidences of frictions
Negative Side
  • Requires an elevated sense of expertise to handle

#4 MinnKota Traxxis 45 Transom Mount Trolling Motor

MinnKota-Traxxis-45-Transom-Mount

Wanting to enjoy the best that these motors have to offer? Well, you have to work with a brand that is reputable and has similarly been noted to satisfy the wishes of users exceptionally well over the years. MinnKota is that brand. It handles such tasks with an elevated sense of reliability.

Instant Backtrolling

Using this motor, it is possible for you to manage the task of instant backtrolling. With this feature at your fingertips, you may be sure to catch your fish at any time regardless of the prevailing environmental conditions. This is largely made possible by the 180° swivel capability.

Indestructible Composite Shaft

Its shaft is indestructible owing to the composite material makeup. The material is stronger and more durable. On the strength of this tougher stature, the shaft is unlikely to kink, break, or even corrode with ease. Your prolonged use and an elevated sense of reliability are hence yours to leverage.

Weedless Wedge 2 Pro

At the tips of the motor is a propeller that contains the sharp weedless wedge 2 pro blades. These ones are extremely powerful and well able to pierce through any obstacle that may be leveled against them. These they do without necessarily draining your batteries excessively.

Positive Side
  • The shaft flexes and retracts conveniently to deliver wholesome outcomes
  • Quite indestructible due to the powerful nature
  • The digital maximizer extends the marine battery power by a whopping 5 times
  • Lets you adjust the steering tension accordingly
  • Costs a lot more than other motors
  • Comes with a 2 year warranty
Negative Side
  • Requires an elevated sense of expertise to handle

#5 Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Minn-Kota-Endura-Transom-Mount-Trolling-Motor

Searching for a motor to use purely in freshwater? Well, we are pleased to announce to you the existence of this particular motor. It is appropriately manufactured and intended solely for that very benefit. Expect it hence to perform comparatively better than the many alternatives out there.

Lever Lock Bracket

A lever lock bracket does exist to safeguard the moving parts of the apparatus. To engage it, you lift and rotate the directional indicator at the angle of 180°. That will also trigger the back trolling trait at the very instant it is engaged. The end result is some expedited performances.

Exceptional Steering Responses

Next comes the benefit of exceptional steering responses. At the core of this exceptionality is a tiler that adjusts at the impressive angle of 45° to yield forth better outcomes with limited effort. Being easier to control, the gadget does not fall off or veer you off course while in the ride.

5 Fwd/3 Rev Speed Settings

At the last spot comes the variable speed settings. The motor can vary its speeds five steps forward and three steps in the reverse directions. These variabilities do make for the convenience of operations. They also see to it that you do not necessarily get lost along the way.

Positive Side
  • The shaft flexes and retracts conveniently to deliver wholesome outcomes
  • Quite indestructible due to the powerful nature
  • The digital maximizer extends the battery power by a whopping 5 times
  • Lets you adjust the steering tension accordingly
  • Costs a lot more than other motors
Negative Side
  • Requires an elevated sense of expertise to handle

You May Need : Fishing tackle Bags

#6 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Trolling Motor

Newport-Vessels-Kayak-Series-55lb

Is your desired area of use purely the freshwater environment? Well, we have a surprise gift here for you. The gadget under our mini-review below fits that bill particularly well. That is because it is packed with loads of exceptional features that manage to give off this role.

Extended Battery Cabling

An extended deep cycle battery cabling ranks at the peak of its most venerable traits. This cabling brings about the benefit of flexibility in the sense that it allows your batteries to be placed wherever and whenever they might have to. Thus, it ensures compatibility with all the other systems of the boat.

Adjustable Speed Increments

Next comes the adjustable speed increments. Well, these basically allow you to up and down the speed in either direction. In doing so, they allow for smoother rides at any time of the race. Being adjustable easily, the increments also save some great deal of time for you.

LED Battery Indicator

Also present on the batteries is an LED indicator. The purpose of this indicator is to keep you posted on your own progress and the pace of the depletion of the battery. It delivers a bright blue hue to make this possibility largely achievable. That way, you stay tuned for your own progress.

Positive Side
  • Equipped with a propeller with two blades
  • Reduces the drag that comes along with the use
  • TUps the thrust for optimal performances
  • Rated for use in the saltwater
  • Its cables are extra-long and hence quite flexible
Negative Side
  • Is comparatively limited in scope and vitality

#7 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor

36lb-Thrust-Transom-Mounted-Saltwater-Electric-Trolling-Motor

Are you weighty or plan to catch a copious amount of fish? You have this motor for your taking and choice if your answer to either question has been in the affirmative. That stems from the 36 pounds of thrust capability of the item overall. That makes it able to haul a huge load on the whole.

Stainless Steel Hardware

Throughout its makeup is the stainless steel hardware. On the strength of this makeup, the gadget achieves some strength and vitality that sees it handle strenuous tasks with absolute reliability. Due to the non-corrosive nature of this material, the motor also performs well in seawater.

Variable Speed

It is also possible for you to vary the speeds of the motor as it operates. The item gives you the leeway to adjust the speed in 8 settings i.e. 5 in the forward and 3 in the reverse directions. Stemming from this ability, you are yet again guaranteed the comfort and peace of mind you desperately want.

Extra-long Cables

A set of extra-long cables also come along for your own use and applicability. Being long, the cables are flexible enough to allow for some easy use and operations. Specifically, they facilitate the placements of the batteries for the sake of proper distribution of weight.

Positive Side
  • Provides a lifetime of dependable services
  • Its weight is uniformly distributed to allow for a fair balance
  • Contains a battery level indicator
  • Gets to the bottom of the water body
  • Resists corrosion and other agents of deterioration
Negative Side
  • Requires excessive muscle power to take on

#8 Aquos White Haswing Cayman 12V 55LBS 48″ Shaft Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor

Aquos-White-Haswing-Cayman-12V-55LBS-48-inch-Shaft-Bow-Mount

Are you constantly on the move or change locations every now and then? Your solution rests in this particular motor. It is portable enough to haul to the desired direction or location of use. Thanks to this arrangement, you may also be certain to enjoy the rare privilege of expedited performances.

Rugged Shaft Support

Its shaft does confer some rugged and stable support. This combines with the low vibrating aspect of the motor to deliver to you the fringe benefit of limited friction and other unwanted external noises that come along ordinarily. With it come some added comfort and exceptional performances.

Super sealing, Waterproof and Anti-corrosion

In all, the machine demonstrates some super sealing, waterproof and anti-corrosion traits. All these work jointly to prevent the infiltration of water in the motor or boat. Thus, it maintains your operations in a dry and comfortable manner. That way, it gives you an elevated sense of vitality.

Adjustable 48-inch Shaft Length

Unlike the shafts of many other motors, this one is adjustable within a range of around 48 inches. It is hence more versatile and comfortable enough to utilize in the long run. Moreover, the length allows for effective operations in a number of water vessels.

Positive Side
  • Quieter than many other trolling motors
  • Its speed varies at the simple press of a button
  • Allows for improved controls and proper handling
  • Consumes modest levels of power
  • Installs and unmounts faster and easily
Negative Side
  • Delivers little thrust

#9 MotorGuide Bow Mount Foot-Control

MotorGuide-Bow-Mount-Foot-Control

Wanting to enjoy some quieter operations and outcomes? Choose to work with this particular motor. It is indeed engineered for quietness and ultimate comfort. Besides these, the motor also performs well by taking on the stronger waves and other forms of turbulence. In this way, it keeps you in a state of utmost performance.

Patented Variable Ratio Steering (VRS)

A patented variable-ratio steering comes in first among the many benefits it potentially brings along. Thanks to this steering, the gadget remains safe and sound even when bombarded with the harshest winds and waves. It also changes locations better and faster to make your motions uncompromised.

Foot-control Unit

At the foot are some controls. They fasten to your feet and knees and alter your directions appropriately and as need be. Also abundantly present on the unit are some directional indicators. They alert you on the kind of direction you are just about to take.

Stronger Stature

In all, the entire structure is available in a stronger stature. Specifically, it comprises some stainless steel bushings and a rigid aircraft-grade aluminum mount, both of which are strong and truly reliable. Owing to this strength and vitality, the item similarly lasts longer not to mention requiring limited repairs.

Positive Side
  • Manages quieter operations all the while
  • Delivers better performances
  • Lasts a fairly long duration of time
  • Generates the impressive 70 pounds of thrust
  • Offers the best-in-class steering performances
Negative Side
  • Contains some delicate parts and components

#10 SATURN 55 Lbs. Short-Shaft Electric Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boats, Kaboats, Kayaks, and Canoes

SATURN-55-Lbs-Short-Shaft-Electric-Tolling-Motor-for-Inflatable-Boats

Is yours an inflatable boat? Well, this motor will definitely do you some good. It does have the distinct capability of powering such kinds of boats with absolute ease. That is mainly due to its lighter stature and gentler power output capacity. Its thrust output is nonetheless higher overall.

Unique Short-shaft Trolling Motors For Kayaks

In general, the item is available in some unique short-shaft trolling capacity. It is this trait in fact that makes the item well able to handle the rigorous of the inflatable boats. This is also complemented by the light nature that sees it fit snugly in many delicate items.

55-pound Thrust Motor

On the whole, the item is able to generate 55 pounds of thrust power. Definitely, this is sufficient to power the moderately weighty marine vessels. You yet again have it for your own taking if you want to haul or catch a higher number of fish.

Special Composite Shaft

A special composite shaft also exists as a vital part and parcel of the best trolling motor. On the whole, the shaft is stronger and more flexible than those of many other motors. Its extendable handle also exists to allow for smoother and more expedited engagements as time goes by.

Positive Side
  • Operates in many speed levels and limits
  • Displays accurate levels of battery at any time
  • Weighs a paltry 17 pounds
  • More affordable than many other boats
  • Saves your environment from the menace of pollution
Negative Side
  • May not suit commercial ends

Why You Need A Best Trolling Motor For Kayak

A trolling motor for kayaks serve many purposes. The following are the common roles which may be devoted to these items:

Propel you in the Water

The primary role of a motor of this kind is to propel you in water. This it does chiefly by converting the deep cycle battery power into mechanical or motion energy. Then, it pushes the kayak forward in such a way as to maintain you in a forward motion or direction all the while.

Haul the Catch

Just in case you are a fisherman also, the motor does provide the strength and vitality you need to haul your catch safely to the desired destination. Unlike the human brawn that is somewhat limited, this one is extremely powerful and well able to minimize unnecessary drag.

Maneuver you

You definitely need some motor power to maneuver out and about a desired area of use. For this, the trolling motor for kayak comes in handy yet again. It provides the push you will naturally need to move about the desired area with absolute ease and maximum convenience.

Reduce the Effort Input

In the absence of the motor, the human muscle power has to come in handy. Obviously, such a muscle power is disadvantageous in that it is limited in scope and thrust. The trolling motor takes care of this disadvantage chiefly by providing a higher level of power output.

Hasten your Transportation

It is still possible for you to power your kayaks, granted. However, the motors are more reliable in all these. That is because they are faster thanks to the comparatively higher level of power output they give off. That arrangement also lets you get to your destination faster.

Features Of A Kayak Trolling Motor

These motors come in diverse shades and purposes. Nonetheless, they also exhibit some unifying characteristics and traits. It is these traits that in fact give them the character they eventually possess and give off. Listed and explained hereunder are some of the major characteristics of these motors:

Moderate Weights

They weigh less, typically 15 pounds give or take. This makes them fit many kinds of kayaks and also diminish the amount or level of drag that they are likely to impose on the said boats altogether. In light of this, the motors also reduce the amount of fuel the kayaks would require to steer.

Higher Thrust Outputs

Many of them are engineered to deliver a higher level of thrust or power output. They are designed to not only propel you in the forward direction but also haul the catch and the weights of the occupants. Their thrust outputs range in between 55-85 pounds.

Blade Propeller

Attached to the motors themselves are some blade propellers. These ones, as you may have already guessed, do transmit the torque from the motor to the waters. It is this torque that in turn pushes the motor forward or in the reverse directions. They are sharper and more responsive.

Adjustable telescoping Handles

Complementing the propellers are the adjustable telescoping handles. It is these handles that expedite the handling and controls of the gadgets altogether. Given the telescoping nature of the handles, they have far-reaching impacts and performances. They also tend to minimize strains in the course of use.

Battery Indicators

To help you to keep pace with the rate of battery depletion or discharge, the motors do comprise some battery indicators. In most cases, these indicators exude some blue hue. This hue is often accompanied by a beeping sound that is designed to draw the attention of the user to the progress thereof.

Comfortable Shaft Length

All of them contain some shafts that connect the motor to the propeller blades. It is the one that transmits the torque to the blades that are subsequently converted to the moving actions. These shafts tend to have a more comfortable length for ease of operations.

Variable Speeds

Quite a number of these motors also operate via variable speeds. This simply means that they give you the leeway to set and determine the speed of travel that is desirous to you at a time. Many also operate in forward and reverse directions for your ease of operations and maximum comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

1. Is it legal to put a trolling motor on a kayak?

A. Of course! However, you must follow all the laid down rules and regulations to be on the safe side of the law. To do this well, you have to see to it that you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that exist in the area of your desired use.

2. How fast can a kayak go with a trolling motor?

A. Many motors can manage 5 miles per hour. Yet again, it is important to know the speed rating of your motor beforehand. That will give you the freedom of heart you desperately need to be able to work your way well. Be mindful of your controls and expertise also.

3. Does a boat have to be registered if it has a trolling motor?

A. Generally, boats have to be registered with the state, county, city, or local authority wherein they are to be deployed. That again is necessary to prevent any clashes with the relevant authorities and guarantee smoother and reliable operations all the while.

4. How do you hook up a Kayak trolling motor to a battery?

Follow these steps to do that:

  • Attach the 12V motor to a single 12V battery
  • Fasten the black negative lead from the motor to the battery terminal
  • The secure red positive lead from the motor to the positive battery terminal
  • Incorporate 50-amp circuit breaker on the positive connection
  • Test the system and there you go

5. How much thrust do I need for a trolling motor kayak?

A. All factors considered, you will need to expend 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of weight. This requires a battery whose power rating is no less than 12V. Do your calculations well to be able to know just how much thrust your luggage may possibly have to haul.

Our top Choice

Conclusion

We bring our long and laborious belabor of the kayak trolling motor to an end there. Having done our part, we now leave it to you to carry on from where we have left. Obviously, that can only mean you implementing the insights we have furnished you.

Finding the right motor is a critical step to take towards enjoying the benefits they potentially bring along. You have to read our explanations keenly to be able to know just what to do or how to go about it. Talk to us just in case you get stuck along the way. We are always eager to provide added support.

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