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10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Minn Kota Terrova Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS, Spot-Lock – 80 Lb. Thrust, 60 in. Shaft, Freshwater

The Minn Kota 1358380 Terrova is an electric trolling motor designed with serious anglers in mind. With 80 lb. of thrust and a 60" shaft, it provides ample power for various fishing conditions, making it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. One of its standout features is the advanced GPS Trolling System, which includes Spot-Lock, allowing you to stay on your fishing spot with excellent accuracy without needing to constantly adjust the motor. The wireless remote control is user-friendly, letting you navigate and control the motor effortlessly from a distance.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,373
Control Type
Mounting Location

Most important from
94 reviews

Control Type
The autopilot and cruise control features make fishing much easier.
Mounting Location
Highly recommend getting a lock for the floor mount before installing the floor plate.
#2
9.7 score

Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor with FreeSteer Joystick Remote, Wireless Foot Pedal, HDI Nosecone

The Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor is a solid choice for anglers looking for powerful and precise control on freshwater boats. Its brushless motor offers excellent thrust and runs quietly on 24V or 36V, which means you get strong, smooth performance without disturbing the water too much. The 72-inch shaft length is good for medium to larger boats, providing plenty of clearance in various water conditions.

Rating
9.7
Thrust
Control Type

Most important from
3 reviews

Thrust
The motor delivers strong, smooth performance even in choppy lake conditions, proving its reliability on the water.
Control Type
The wireless foot pedal is a game changer, offering hands-free control that truly elevates the fishing experience.
#3
9.1 score

Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motor 90”, White, Without Transducer

The Garmin Force Kraken is a strong choice if you want one of the most powerful trolling motors available, delivering 100 lbs of thrust. This makes it great for larger boats or tough water conditions where extra power is needed. It runs on 36 volts, which is typical for high-performance electric motors, ensuring smooth and steady operation. The shaft length is 90 inches, which is quite long and should fit many boat sizes and deck setups, especially if you have a taller bow or need extra clearance.

Top 10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motor 90”, White, Without Transducer

Thrust: 100 lbs
Voltage: 36 Volts
Shaft Length: 90 inches
Control Type: Wireless Bluetooth
Mounting Location: Bow Mount
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Buying Guide for the Best Trolling Motors

Choosing the right trolling motor for your boat can significantly enhance your fishing experience. A trolling motor is an electric motor used to maneuver your boat quietly and precisely, which is crucial for fishing. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your needs.
ThrustThrust is the measure of how powerful the trolling motor is, usually measured in pounds (lbs). It is important because it determines how well the motor can move your boat through the water, especially in challenging conditions like strong currents or heavy winds. For small boats or kayaks, 30-40 lbs of thrust may be sufficient. Medium-sized boats may require 40-55 lbs, while larger boats might need 70 lbs or more. To pick the right thrust, consider the size and weight of your boat and the typical water conditions you will encounter.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power system of the trolling motor, commonly available in 12V, 24V, and 36V. This spec is important because it affects the motor's power and battery life. A 12V system is suitable for smaller boats and lighter use, while 24V and 36V systems provide more power and longer run times, ideal for larger boats and more demanding conditions. Choose the voltage based on your boat size and how long you plan to use the motor during your trips.
Shaft LengthShaft length is the distance from the motor head to the propeller, and it is crucial for ensuring the motor stays submerged at the right depth. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may come out of the water, while a too-long shaft can be cumbersome. For bow-mounted motors, measure the distance from the mounting point to the waterline and add 20 inches. For transom-mounted motors, measure from the top of the transom to the waterline and add 16-20 inches. Choose a shaft length that keeps the motor submerged in various water conditions.
Control TypeControl type refers to how you operate the trolling motor, with options including hand control, foot control, and remote control. This spec is important because it affects your convenience and fishing style. Hand control is straightforward and less expensive, foot control allows for hands-free operation, and remote control offers the most flexibility and ease of use. Consider your fishing habits and personal preference when choosing the control type.
Mounting LocationMounting location refers to where the trolling motor is installed on your boat, either at the bow (front) or transom (rear). This is important because it affects the boat's maneuverability and control. Bow-mounted motors provide better control and are preferred for larger boats and serious anglers, while transom-mounted motors are easier to install and suitable for smaller boats. Choose the mounting location based on your boat size and how you plan to use the motor.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the trolling motor can run on a single charge, which is crucial for planning your fishing trips. It depends on the motor's power consumption and the battery capacity. Higher voltage systems (24V and 36V) generally offer longer battery life. To pick the right battery life, consider how long you typically spend on the water and whether you have access to recharge the battery during your trips.

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