Many outdoor enthusiasts use kayaks for water activities. These vessels are agile, portable, and easy to control. Of course, their mobility depends on many factors. But the drive is one of the most important.
Some kayak anglers like to paddle, as they have full control over the vessel. But those who want maximum comfort and functionality will install a kayak trolling motor and enjoy almost effortless maneuvering.
This engine is battery-powered and easy to install on most kayak models. You can control it manually or by foot, and some models even offer remote control. In any case, getting a trolling motor for a kayak takes your water adventure to a higher level.
What Is the Best Kayak Trolling Motor?
The offer of kayak trolling motors is manifold because they differ in performance and strength. The following is a list of models that fit everyone’s requirements and budget.
- What Is the Best Kayak Trolling Motor?
- 1. XI3 Freshwater 55LB 36" with Pinpoint GPS
- 2. Newport Vessels Kayak Series 61 cm 55lb Thrust Sole
- 3. Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC Kayak Motor
- 4. Minn Kota Endura Max 55lb Trolling Motor
- 5. Watersnake T18 ASP – 18 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater
- 6. Newport Vessels Electric Motor with Kayak Mount Set
- 7. Minn Kota Endura
- How to Choose the Right Battery for a Trolling Motor
- Wrap Up
1. XI3 Freshwater 55LB 36″ with Pinpoint GPS
Specifications
- Price – $1,299.00
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 55 lbs (24.95 kg)
- Shaft Length – 36 in (91.44 cm)
- Water Type – Freshwater
Pros
- PinPoint GPS
- Easy mount and deploy
- Quiet work
- Battery durability
Cons
- GPS connection can sometimes bug
The XI3 Freshwater 55LB 36″ is what you need when looking for a reliable engine with minimal steering effort. It’s a small beast with a 12V battery packed in a 36” shaft. Furthermore, with 55 lbs of thrust, this kayak trolling motor successfully fights currents and winds.
Besides, GPS Pinpoint on this trolling motor for kayak enables easy gadget adding. For example, you can connect remote-control steering or a wireless foot pedal for hands-free maneuvering. READ MORE
A good thing about XI3 Freshwater 55LB 36″ is its quiet work. Not to mention the ease of fishing due to wireless anchoring and heading lock that keeps you steady on the water.
This trolling motor for kayaks is 40% quieter than most models on the market. Also, the strong 3-blade machete propeller is a lifesaver when your kayak with trolling motor gets tangled in the weeds.
Stowing and deploying this kayak trolling motor is a breeze due to the SecureStep system. You can do that on any watercraft with a bow mounting option. Overall, this trolling motor for kayaks offers the best performance, which justifies the high price tag.
2. Newport Vessels Kayak Series 61 cm 55lb Thrust Sole
Specifications
- Price – $695.00
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 55 lbs (24.95 kg)
- Shaft Length – 24 in (61 cm)
- Weight – 23 lbs (10.43 kg)
- Water Type – Saltwater
Pros
- Durability
- Corrosion-resistant hardware
- Easy maneuvering
- 5 speeds to choose from
Cons
- Too heavy for lightweight kayaks
If you want a trolling motor for a kayak that has solid performance and acceptable price, Newport’s 61 cm 55lb Thrust Sole kayak trolling motor is your thing. This lightweight device (23 lbs) features a 12V engine with 55 lbs of thrust to provide you with years of faithful service. READ MORE
This trolling motor for a kayak is perfect for saltwater adventures. Stainless steel hardware and the aluminum head endure all challenges of open seas. With the addition of magnesium and zinc layers, you don’t have to worry about elements and corrosion.
The shaft is 24-inches long and made of fiberglass. You can adjust it to variable depth positions. Besides, you can tilt this kayak trolling motor back whenever running onto shallow waters, rocks, or heading to the coast.
A telescopic handle allows you smooth control over your kayak with trolling motor. Fighting currents and waves is almost effortless thanks to 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds. Users claim that this trolling motor for kayaks can go up to 4 mph without any problems.
3. Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC Kayak Motor
Specifications
- Price – $2,899.00
- Voltage – 915 Wh lithium battery included
- Shaft Length – 20 in (51 cm)
- Weight – 33.7 lbs (15.3 kg) with battery
- Water Type – Saltwater and Freshwater
Pros
- Integrated battery
- Waterproof hardware
- Lightweight
- Tilt and Park mechanism
Cons
- No GPS anchoring
- High price
The Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC kayak trolling motor is an impressive unit that fits most kayak models. It’s lightweight and easy to mount and will take you anywhere you want. Also, the steering system is compatible with the kayak steering unit.
This model’s shaft is made of durable materials and will withstand sudden impacts on underwater obstacles. Besides, a tilt and park mechanism can help you adjust the kayak trolling motor position and overcome barriers and shoals without damaging the motor. READ MORE
The speed of 6.5 mph that the Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC kayak trolling motor can achieve can help you reach the best fishing spots in no time. Furthermore, as its maximum range is about 31 miles (50 km), you will easily cope with the challenges of both freshwater and open seas.
This kayak trolling motor is on the high end of the price range for these devices. But you get a whole pack with a battery, charger, GPS-based range calculation, and onboard computer. There’s also a magnetic kill switch for a quick engine shutdown in an emergency.
4. Minn Kota Endura Max 55lb Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Price – $299.00
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 55 lbs (25 kg)
- Shaft Length – 24 in (61 cm)
- Type – Freshwater
Pros
- Digital Maximizer
- Extended battery life
- Hardware durability
- Price
Cons
- Short power cable
- Occasional vibrations
Minn Kota’s Endura Max is a worthy successor to the Endura series of kayak trolling motors. Despite its low price, the Endura Max has an enviable performance. This trolling motor for kayaks has several versions, but the 12V with 55 lbs of thrust is the most popular.
The new models feature Digital Maximizer, which extends the engine’s operating time after charging up to five times. Besides, the manufacturer claims that the composite shaft (36” and 42” options) is almost indestructible and gives a lifetime guarantee. READ MORE
This transom-mount trolling motor for kayaks features variable speed control and adjustments for smoother water movement. Besides, you can set the speed manually, which extends the battery life between charges.
This kayak trolling motor is quiet and has excellent cooling, contributing to the overall battery life. In addition, the integrated battery meter shows the charge level at all times so that nothing can surprise you.
The telescopic tiller on this kayak trolling motor ensures smooth maneuvering. In addition, this unit features a 10-position bracket with dual mounting bolts, so you can quickly put it on and off. And if you get caught in underwater weeds, the cutting-edge 2-blade propeller will get you out of there in no time.
5. Watersnake T18 ASP – 18 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater
Specifications
- Price – $120.00
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 18 lbs (8.17 kg)
- Shaft Length – 24 in (61 cm)
- Weight – 4.85 lbs (2.2 kg)
- Water Type – Saltwater and Freshwater
Pros
- Low power usage
- Lightweight unit
- Extendable steering handle
- Price
Cons
- Only 2 speeds
- Plastic propeller
Trolling kayak motors with immense trust are reliable and fast but incompatible with light or inflatable kayaks. Regarding that, Watersnake T18 ASP is a game changer, featuring a 12V battery with 18 lbs of thrust. That makes this unit very lightweight and easy to install and transport.
This kayak trolling motor has two speeds, one forward and one reverse, so changing direction is almost effortless. In addition, the extendable handle on the 24” shaft allows you to take a comfortable position while driving your kayak with trolling motor. There’s also an anti-impact clip system. READ MORE
Low power usage is probably the best thing about this trolling motor for kayaks. At an average speed, this unit uses only 7 amps. That’s enough for a few carefree hours on the water.
A price tag of just $120 may indicate a lack of quality, but that’s not the case with the Watersnake T18 ASP trolling kayak motor. Instead, you get everything you need in a small package. Compatibility with various lightweight batteries is an added advantage.
6. Newport Vessels Electric Motor with Kayak Mount Set
Specifications
- Price – $399.00
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 55 lbs (24.95 kg)
- Shaft Length – 24 in (61 cm)
- Weight – 24 lbs (10.86 kg)
- Water Type – Saltwater
Pros
- Mighty 36lb Electric Trolling Motor
- Ease of use
- Resistant to corrosion
Cons
- Motor vibrations
- Installation take some time and practice
A reliable engine like the Newport Vessels Electric kayak trolling motor brings enviable drive power combined with multiple speed settings. The 55 lbs motor with a 36” shaft is a score for turning your kayak into mighty watercraft for hunting big fish.
The drive unit can withstand the conditions of being on the open seas. The stainless-steel hardware carries a corrosion-resistant aluminum engine. The fiberglass shaft and 6-inch telescoping handle allow for kayak trolling motor placement for comfortable use. READ MORE
You get a full package when you add the Railblaza Kayak Transom Mount to Newport’s trolling motor for a kayak. This mounting aid features two StarPort HDs that fit most small crafts. You can install or remove this trolling motor for kayak at a width of 40”. And when it’s time to take it off, you can do that in a matter of seconds, whether you want to paddle or transport your craft.
7. Minn Kota Endura
Specifications
- Price – $244.99
- Voltage – 12V
- Max Thrust – 55 lbs (24.95 kg)
- Shaft Length – 36 in (91.44 cm)
- Water Type – Freshwater
Pros
- Almost indestructible
- Quiet work
- Lifetime Minn Kota guarantee
- Lever Lock bracket
Cons
- No battery indicator
Minn Kota is a well-known brand among anglers, especially the Endura series of trolling motors, which are best-sellers. The models currently on the market offer excellent features at a fair price.
The Endura transom-mounted trolling engine is an excellent choice for small boats. This kayak trolling motor gives its best in freshwater, although many users claim it performs well in deep waters, too. READ MORE
A 36” shaft with 55 lbs of trust is almost indestructible (due to the high quality of composite materials), long-lasting, and very reliable. Besides, this trolling motor for kayaks is super quiet and stays cool, even after several hours of work.
You can adjust the tilt angle of this kayak trolling motor with the 10-position bracket. This engine has eight speeds (5 for forward, 3 for reverse) and hand-steering that enable excellent vessel control.
Six-inch telescoping handle on this kayak trolling motor provides comfortable gripping and smooth maneuvering. And if you need an extra push when caught in underwater weed, a 3-1/4″ propeller will get you through it.
How to Choose the Right Battery for a Trolling Motor
Most trolling motors for kayaks don’t come with a battery included. So before the purchase, you must consider several key factors to find the right model.
Lead-Acid batteries have proven reliable and safe. However, Li-Ion batteries are slowly taking over due to their high performance. They last longer and have more power than traditional units. Plus, they have a small footprint and low environmental impact.
Another consideration is a battery’s amperage hour. The number of amp hours indicates how long the battery will work at certain speeds. Clearly, the higher the number, the stronger the battery. It will last longer, even at higher speeds.
You should charge batteries as soon as they are discharged. By using them rationally and following the manufacturer’s instructions, you extend the lives of these units. When not in use, store batteries properly and protect them from the elements and corrosion.
Wrap Up
A reliable kayak trolling motor can make your water adventures enjoyable and carefree. It’s important to know what you want and fit that into your budget. With a properly selected drive unit, you will reach any spot without any problems.