Kayak Trolling Motor Buying Guide
Picture this: gliding peacefully across a tranquil lake, casting your fishing line into the still waters, and waiting for the telltale tug of a catch. No juggling a paddle in one hand and a rod in the other, no straining against the wind or current, no smoke from an outboard. Just easy, quiet fishing. Sounds nice, doesn’t it? Kayak fishing offers a unique and serene way to connect with nature while pursuing your passion for angling. However, to truly harness the potential of your kayak, there’s one game-changing addition you should consider – the kayak trolling motor.
In this article, we’ll explain why they can be a game-changer for kayak anglers and help you understand the ins and outs of these motors.
Benefits Of A Kayak Trolling Motor
Adding a trolling motor to your kayak can be a significant expense. A budget model is still a $300 investment, and you can spend a couple of grand on a premium model. And those prices are before you factor in a lightweight, lithium battery and any rigging, wiring, or retrofitting necessary for the installation. The allure of a kayak for many anglers is its low cost and simplicity, so it can seem counterintuitive to add a motor to one. But trolling motors offer some very real advantages to kayak anglers.
Stealth
A properly adjusted trolling motor can be very stealthy when stalking fish in shallow water. While the hum of a trolling motor does make some noise, the splash of a paddle can make much more in unskilled or distracted hands. And that’s to say nothing of an errant bump of the paddle shaft against the hull of your boat. A trolling motor reduces the amount of splashing a kayak angler makes, and reduces the amount of fish-spooking movement he has to make when stalking fish that can potentially see the paddle blade waving through the air. Kayak fishing is intrinsically well-suited to close quarters, stealthy fishing, and a trolling motor can take your sneak to the next level.
Hands-Free Fishing
If you’ve ever tried to juggle a bull-headed fish on the end of your rod while simultaneously trying to decide whether to grab the net or the paddle next, then you know that fishing from a kayak can quickly turn into quite the rodeo. If you’re relying on a paddle to creep along a weed line or hold yourself over structure, every second spent with a hand on your paddle is a second you spend not fishing. On windy days or in strong currents, it’s easy to spend more time positioning the boat than casting. A trolling motor lets you position the boat with your feet, freeing up your hands to cast, set the hook, and net the fish.
Speed
Over short distances, a good paddler can match or exceed the speeds most trolling motors give you. But as time goes on, a paddler will tire. A motor? Not so much. If you’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there, a trolling motor will allow you to traverse longer distances in shorter amounts of time. You’ll also arrive at your destination relaxed and well rested instead of winded.
Safety
This extra speed can translate to a safer trip. Storm clouds rolling in? Kick it into high gear and beat a hasty retreat back to the boat ramp. Injured or sick? A bad stomach or a hook in the hand may slow a paddler down, but not a trolling motor. A trolling motor isn’t a “get out of jail free card” and should never inspire foolhardiness, but it can quickly get you out of an uncomfortable situation in a pinch.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Kayak Trolling Motor
Since a kayak trolling motor is a not-insubstantial investment into your fishing kayak, you should take your time to research your options before you commit. Consider the following factors when purchasing a kayak trolling motor.
Thrust
Outboards are usually measured in horsepower. Trolling motors measure pounds of thrust instead. The larger the number, the bigger and stronger the motor, and the bigger battery required to keep it running. A 35lb thrust motor is enough for a light hull, light angler, and light loads. But it can struggle in heavy current or high winds. A 55lb thrust motor is the most powerful model you can get before moving up to a 24v system which requires 2, 12v batteries. It’s arguably overkill for most anglers, but if you’re moving a big hull in big waters it can be comforting knowing that you have a little extra “umph” behind the prop.
For most situations, a 45lb thrust trolling motor is the “sweet spot.” It’s not quite as battery-efficient and lightweight as a 35, but it’s not as expensive and heavy as a 55.
Controls
If you’re on a budget, or just want to use the model to get from point A to point B, a hand-steered model is inexpensive and functional. But if you’d like to free up your hands to fish, a pedal steer or remote steer model is well-worth the extra cost and weight. Most anglers go with foot-steer, but the ability to press a button to hold yourself in place is a nice feature that high-end motors offer you…for a price.
Shaft Length
Regardless of what shaft length you choose, chances are you’ll have to trim it a bit to get an ideal fit on your kayak, unless you choose a model specifically designed for one. Regular trolling motors are designed to mount to decks much, much higher off of the water than a kayak’s deck. Luckily, trimming a shaft is a simple task. Just be careful not to cut a finger, or the power cord.
Mounting System
The cheapest and simplest trolling motors are transom mounted, hand controlled models. If you’re lucky enough to own a kayak designed for use with a trolling motor, it will have a molded-in “mini transom” that you can bolt the motor to. Otherwise, you’ll have to buy or DIY a mount. Side-saddle mounts are usually a bit more ergonomic to control, but not as efficient due to their offset.
Some kayaks have a big enough deck to accommodate a bow-mounted trolling motor. If this is the case with your boat, definitely consider spending the extra money on a quick-disconnect bracket. This will allow you to quickly pop the motor on and off. Trolling motors are handy, but on short fishing trips or recreational floats it can be nice to have the option to leave yours at home.
Weight
Before pulling the trigger on a kayak trolling motor, take a minute to calculate the weight of the motor and the battery. A motor can easily add a hundred pounds to your load, putting you over your hull’s capacity. A lithium battery is a pricey but premium upgrade that can shave substantial weight off of your power system.
Best Kayak Trolling Motor Options
Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC
Features
- Weight: 15.3 kg complete with battery
- 3 HP equivalent
- With 915 Wh high-performance lithium battery
- Comes including charger, throttle, onboard computer, GPS-based range calculation and emergency magnetic kill switch
- New angler mount with tilt and park mechanism, plus simple integration with the kayak’s steering unit
- Easy to mount on fishing kayaks
- Range of up to 50 km
This efficient and discreet motor is an ideal addition to your fishing kayak. Crafted with anglers in mind, it operates quietly to avoid disturbing potential catches. Not only does this motor help you reach prime fishing spots ahead of the crowd, but it also boasts advanced features, including built-in GPS, real-time range and runtime data, and a cutting-edge lithium battery. With its remarkable power, maneuverability, and rapid throttle response, you’ll swiftly explore new territories.
Motorguide Xi3
Features
- Wireless remote-control steering
- Compatible with optional wireless foot pedal
- Large SecureStep lever allows for quick and easy stow and deploy
- Pinpoint GPS
- LED dashboard for easy monitoring of functions
- Available for fresh and saltwater
MotorGuide’s Xi3 offers numerous compelling reasons for choosing it for your fishing adventures. With its lightweight build and user-friendly SecureStep system, you can effortlessly stow and deploy the motor, whether you’re seated or standing. Additionally, its almost noiseless operation and wireless remote control make it an ideal companion for any kayak.
Newport Vessels NK180
Features
- Low noise, direct drive design
- 5+ mph brushless motor
- 24V – lithium or AGM (Battery not included)
- 1.8 hp equivalent motor unit
- Integrated rudder steering
- Braided stainless steering cable kit
- Motor lift cable handle
- Digital speed controller w/display
- Motor lift arm
- Three steering cable setup options
- Compatible with 24V deep cycle batteries or 25.9V LiFePo4 battery
- Four-bolt aluminum mount
The Newport Vessels NK180 Kayak Motor is a versatile choice for both freshwater and saltwater, offering exceptional performance and power. It operates quietly and efficiently in a direct-drive design, perfect for stealthy fishing approaches. You can use either two 12V lead-acid deep cycle batteries or a lighter 24V lithium battery, thanks to its dual modes. It easily mounts on various fishing kayaks and has a pivoting N-180 mount to navigate around underwater obstacles. Its robust aluminum motor head can handle impacts. Control the motor’s direction with steering cables or lock it in a forward position for SUPs and inflatable kayaks. To engage reverse, just use a pull cord.
Bixpy K-1 Angler Pro
Features
- Protection: Water-proof, dirt-proof and corrosion resistant housing and components
- Water Use: Anodized aluminum body for salt water or fresh water use
- Cable attachment – permanently attached directly to the motor
- Quick release motor can be removed with just one bolt
- Warp Speed (Reach max speed with a double click)
- Airfoil fin for better tracking
- Water cooled for better efficiency
- Works with more than 20 different Bixpy K-1 Mounting Adapters
Boasting a 30-pound thrust and a 30-inch shaft, this motor provides the necessary strength to navigate various water conditions. It offers the flexibility of 5 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, enabling you to adapt your boat’s speed to any situation. What’s more, it comes equipped with a digital LED display that allows you to easily monitor battery life, speed, and steering angle. If you’re in search of a dependable and robust trolling motor for this fishing season, the Watersnake Tracer FW 30/30 Trolling Motor fits the bill perfectly.
Minn Kota Endura C2
Features
- Telescoping tiller handle extends 6″ for convenient operation
- Power Prop delivers plenty of thrust
- Composite shaft designed to flex and not break
- Large windings and commutators dissipate heat
- 10-Position, Lever-Lock, transom-mount
- 5 forward speeds; 3 reverse speeds
- Voltage: 12V
The Endura C2 series takes this reputation to the next level with its quality design. These motors operate quietly, thanks to heat-dissipating components, a special bearing system, and boast a durable yet flexible composite shaft. The motors feature multiple speeds, a comfortable telescoping handle for steering, and a powerful Power Prop for navigating through vegetation. Their dependability is further ensured by a robust 10-position Lever-Lock mounting bracket made from reinforced composite material.
Watersnake Tracer
Features
- Includes five forward speeds and two reverse speeds
- Weedless two-blade propeller designed to allow your boat to move easily through the water and weeds
- Suits various styles of small watercraft including kayaks
- 30-inch telescopic chrome plated steel shaft
- 30lbs of thrust
- Extendable tiller operating
Boasting a 30-pound thrust and a 30-inch shaft, this motor provides the necessary strength to navigate various water conditions. It offers the flexibility of 5 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, enabling you to adapt your boat’s speed to any situation. What’s more, it comes equipped with a digital LED display that allows you to easily monitor battery life, speed, and steering angle. If you’re in search of a dependable and robust trolling motor for this fishing season, the Watersnake Tracer FW 30/30 Trolling Motor fits the bill perfectly.
Kayak Trolling Motor Alternatives
While trolling motors are the “traditional” solution to motorizing a kayak, as kayaks have gone mainstream several alternatives have developed. Before pulling the trigger on your purchase, it may be worth asking yourself if the following options would be a good fit for your boat.
Honda 2.3hp Four Stroke
If speed is your biggest priority, and if your hull is rated for one, a small outboard engine may be just the ticket. Honda’s 2.3hp motor comes with a short shaft, is air-cooled, is extremely quiet, and features a built-in fuel tank. You’ll see higher top end speeds and have more torque on tap with an outboard than with any other power option, and a gallon of fuel will take you much further with much less weight than a deep-cycle battery. Of course, the trade off is that it’s nowhere nearly as quiet as an electric alternative. Outboards can also be more maintenance-intensive, and you won’t be navigating hands-free with one.
Electric Outboards Motor
Torqueedo led the charge with electric trolling motors, but newcomers such as Newport and ePropulsion have introduced new and existing models to compete with them. Electric outboards are feature-packed and generally faster and more powerful than trolling motors, and thanks to their onboard lithium batteries they’re also much lighter. But, they generally offer a shorter runtime. They’re also fairly new technology, so you potentially sign up for all the “joys” of being an early adapter.
Final Thoughts On Kayak Trolling Motors
Regardless of which option you choose, powering your kayak can be a great decision. It can open up more water for you to fish, and give you more time to fish it. If you decide to mount a trolling motor on your kayak, remember to always abide by your manufacturer’s hull and weight ratings, obey all Coast Guard regulations, and always, always, always wear your life jacket.
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