Getting the best Battery for Trolling Motor will ensure you have enough thrust power and runtime for your fishing and angling expeditions. Ample power reserve for trolling motors comes from quality and high-capacity batteries. The key is to invest in a good battery and use it to get the most out of your boating and fishing expeditions.
As the realm of trolling motors continues to advance, batteries have not been left behind. Today, the market is flooded with different types of batteries for you to choose from. These batteries vary in terms of power generation and capacity to meet the distinct needs of every boat owner out there.
When making your selection, there are several factors you need to take into consideration. The battery life, ease of charging, size, and weight are some of the key things to consider. but with so many options available, the selection process can be taxing.
This article provides a comprehensive look at the best batteries for trolling motors that are made with modern anglers and boat users in mind. Further on, we have included a detailed buying guide and queries associated with these batteries. But first, let’s start by looking at the types of trolling motor batteries available out there.
Best Batteries for Trolling Motors
1) OPTIMA Batteries 8006-006 34M BlueTop Marine Starting Battery
Optimized for marine applications, the OPTIMA 8006-006 34M battery is hands down the best battery for trolling motor. It offers exceptional running time and more recharges than the standard trolling motor batteries out there.
The battery is made for rugged use. It provides outstanding vibration resistance even when you are trolling in less-than-ideal water conditions. On top of that, it has a spillproof construction that makes it easy to mount in virtually any position.
Another stand-out thing about this battery is its quick charging. It charges quickly and has up to three more recharges than other marine batteries.
Over and above that, the battery features a unique spiral cell design which provides a power source that is not just strong, but also clean. This enhances safety during use and consistently outperforms convectional-plate batteries.
Specifications
- 50Ah capacity
- 12V voltage
- Dimensions: 6.87″D x 10″W x 7.81″H
- SAE Terminal
- 800 CCA starting power
- High vibration resistance
- Spiral cell technology
- Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM
- Size: 10″ x 6 7/8″ x 7 13/16″ tall
- Weight: 38.4 pounds
- Dual SAE & 5/16″ Stainless Steel Stud Posts
Pros
- Completely non-spillable
- Maintenance free
- Rugged and vibration-resistant
- Good value for the price
Cons
- None
2) Bass Pro Shops Power Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery
Bass Pro Shops Power Series Deep-Cycle Battery is the best battery for trolling motor if you looking for an AGM battery, delivers the ultimate balance of battery life, power, and performance. It comes at a reasonably fair price without cutting any corners on quality and durability.
The battery has a dual-purpose design that allows cranking/starting and deep-cycle application. This means that you don’t have to load up on boat batteries. It also boasts reserve capacity as well as exceptional cold-cranking amps and marine-cranking amps.
In terms of construction, the battery is made with durability in mind. It combines hybrid engineering with an impact-resistant design to ensure rugged use even in rough water conditions. Furthermore, the battery is leakproof and vibration-resistant.
Specifications
- Free replacement warranty in 0-12 months
- 13-36 pro-rated months
- Group 22,24,27,30
- Hybrid engineering
- Impact and vibration-resistant
- Leakproof design
- Weight: 40,56,65,72lbs
Pros
- Exceptional cold-cranking amps
- Decent battery life
- Vibration-resistant
- Impact-resistant
- Incredible marine-cranking amps
- Ampl reserve capacity
Cons
- None
3) Tracker Lithium Gen2 Super High Output Lithium Deep Cycle Battery
If you are looking for an eco-friendly battery for your trolling motor, look no further than the Tracker Lithium Gen2 Super High Output Lithium Deep Cycle Battery. It is one of the most advanced lithium batteries ever made and features a high peak discharge capability for easy navigation in vegetation and strong currents.
The highlight of this battery is its next-generation design. It outperforms lead-acid batteries and other imitators by providing unmatched protection against harmful chemical leakages. Even better, it has a fully encapsulated design that protects it from moisture and element damage.
When it comes to construction, this lithium battery has a heavy-duty design that integrates crucial-duty safety functions. On top of that, it is extremely resistant to vibrations to add durability. It also features built-in fire protection for additional piece of mind.
Specifications
- 5-year warranty
- Weighs: 21 lbs
- Strong starting power
- Extremely vibration resistant
- Critical-duty safety functions
- Built-in fire protection
- Fully encapsulated
Pros
- High peak discharge capabilities
- Compact and lightweight
- Heavy-duty construction
- Fireproof
Cons
- Comparatively expensive
4) Go Power! 100Ah Lithium (LiFePO4) 12V Deep Cycle Battery
Next on our list of the best battery for trolling motor is the Go Power 100Ah Lithium (LiFePO4) 12V Deep Cycle Battery. This battery packs superb capacity in a compact design that makes it ideal for virtually all mobile operations that require you to go further off the grid.
The battery carries almost double the power of traditional lead-acid batteries. It provides 100 amp-hours of DC power so it is more than sufficient for most trolling motors.
Moreover, this battery is built with convenience in mind. It has a small size for convenient transportation. What’s more, it is super light for easy mounting virtually anywhere on the boat. It also has a quick charging function so it is convenient to charge in between outings.
Another impressive thing about this multi-functional lithium battery is the built-in battery management system. The system is important for over and under-voltage protection. It also provides reliable short circuit protection, charge and discharge over current protection, and temperature protection as well.
Specifications
- 100 Ah rated capacity
- 6 VAC maximum charge voltage
- 50A recommended charge current
- -4℉ to 131℉ maximum discharge temperature range
- 10-year product warranty
- Stud Terminal
- Lithium iron phosphate technology
- 8V nominal voltage
- 8 cells
- Weighs : 36 Pounds
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Compact and ideal for mobile operations
- Good warranty
- Tested to UL standards
- Quality construction
- Drop-in replacement for Group 31 Lead Acid batteries
Cons
- Big Budget
5) Dakota Lithium -12V 10Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
Dakota Lithium – 12V 10Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is another compact lithium battery optimized for mobile applications. It is made to help with deep-cycle battery applications and long-lasting energy storage.
This lithium battery lasts 4x longer than traditional lead-acid batteries. With the long-life operation, it provides great value for the buyers while reducing wastage. Over and above that, it employs an advanced battery management system that controls its cell balancing and prevents short-circuiting and high and low voltage cutoff.
Fast charging is another impressive thing about this battery. When its charge is fully depleted, it only takes a short time to have it fully charged. Besides that, it is built lightweight with advanced lithium iron phosphate technology. It also has a compact size of 5.94” x 2.55” x 3.78” to ensure easy handling.
Specifications
- 11 years warranty
- Smart battery management system technology
- 120 watts
- Dimensions: 5.94″D x 2.55″W x 3.74″H
- 2,000 cycles
- 12 volts
- 10 Ah storage capacity
- 6 cells
- F2 Terminal
- Cell Composition: Lithium-Phosphate
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Fast charging
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- None
6) OPTIMA Batteries 8027-127 D27M BLUETOP Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery
Here is another marine battery that comes with all the modern features you would expect. It has up to three times longer runtime than other similarly priced marine batteries from other brands.
Installing the OPTIMA Batteries 8027-127 D27M BLUETOP Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery is quick and straightforward. It is compact and lightweight to ensure that it does not add unnecessary weight to the trolling motor.
The construction quality of this battery is impressive. It is rugged and well-built to offer more than 15 times vibration resistance compared to other marine batteries. On top of that, it is spillproof and mountable in nearly any position.
This flexible battery works well as a boat battery or RV battery. It is also ideal for anyone who needs a sure-starting, strong-cranking, and maintenance-free power source to go further off the grid.
To top off everything else, this marine battery brings to the table a myriad of high-demand electronics that include GPS, bilge pumps, fish finders, and deep cycle power for stereos.
Specifications
- Pure lead SpiralCell technology
- 2-year warranty
- 66 Ah capacity
- Solid cast cell connections
- 25 Amps reserve capacity
- Tightly sealed cells
- 140 minutes reserve capacity at 24 Amps
- 12V voltage capacity
- 800 CCA starting power
Pros
- Maintenance-free
- Solid and rugged construction
- Reliable performance
Cons
- No draw
Read Also
- 8 Best Minn Kota Trolling Motors
- 5 Best Lithium Trolling Motor Batteries
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- 7 Best Bow Mount Trolling Motors
- 6 Best Transom Mount Trolling Motors
Types of Trolling Motor Batteries
There are three types of trolling batteries available out there: lithium-ion, lead-acid, and absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries. here is a highlight of their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
Lithium-ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are the most advanced of the three. They employ the latest technology in the field for high-efficiency and reliable performance.
Pros
- Lightweight construction for easy handling and versatile applications
- Longevity in terms of runtime and overall lifespan
- High energy density that translates to more power
- Fast charging which is essential for recharging in between outings
- Compact size for convenient handling
Cons
- Lithium-ion type of batteries are the most expensive of the three
- Require regular charging
Lead-acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the oldest of the three. These batteries are a regular choice for trolling motors and unlike the lithium-ion counterparts that utilize cutting-edge technology, theirs is basic. They work by dipping lead plates in sulfuric acid to trigger a chemical reaction that in turn generates electricity.
Pros
- Low Cost. Lead-acid batteries are the cheapest of the three
- The proven technology guarantees long-standing use in a wide range of applications
- Given their affordability, lead-acid batteries are readily available in the local stores near you
Cons
- High Maintenance. Although lead-acid batteries are significantly cheap, they require regular maintenance from terminal changing to checking the water levels. This makes them less economical to maintain
- Short Lifespan. The lifespan of lead-acid batteries is shorter compared to Lithium-ion and AGM batteries
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries
AGM batteries are a step up from lead-acid batteries but they don’t match the technology of lithium-ion batteries. They come with a fiberglass mat whose role is to absorb sulfuric acid. This means that AGM batteries are leak-proof, spill-proof, and maintenance-free as well.
Pros
- High Construction Quality. AGM batteries have a sturdy and durable body that is ideal for rugged use
- Unmatched Lifespan. The lifespan of AGM batteries is longer than that of lead-acid batteries
- Economical to Run. Due to the spill-proof and leak-proof design, these batteries tend to be more economical to run and maintain
Cons
- AGM batteries are heavy and less suitable for mobile applications
How to Choose the Right Battery Size for Your Trolling Motor
Choosing a battery for a trolling motor largely depends on the size and type of boat you will be using it with. A battery with insufficient capacity may lead to premature battery depletion while too big of a battery will add unnecessary weight to the boat and even worse, fail to fit in the designated compartment.
Making the right purchase is therefore very impartment for reliable performance. Here are two things to consider; voltage and thrust of your trolling motor. The higher the thrust a boat has, the more power the motor needs. And the higher the voltage, the larger the battery.
- For a small 12V trolling motor with less than 50 lbs thrust, a 50Ah battery will suffice. These small-sized batteries are also ideal for a small kayak
- If you have a 12V trolling motor with a thrust rating of between 50lbs and 80lbs, we recommend a deep cycle battery in the 100Ah range. With such a high capacity, the motor will keep running continuously for several hours. Alternatively, you can get a 24V battery with double the capacity.
- For users with large trolling motors, you need batteries that have a larger capacity than the double 24V. With a 36V trolling system, a 150-200Ah battery should suffice. It will not only provide the best balance between voltage and current but also ensure that you have enough power to sustain you through all your trolling outings.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Battery for Trolling Motor
Buying a trolling motor battery is not something you do in a hurry. Consider the following before you settle on any particular battery.
Size and Weight
The first thing to consider is size and weight. Check the motor’s manual for specific sizing recommendations. When it comes to weight, opt for a battery that balances weight and capacity. Getting a lightweight battery is also essential to ensure that it doesn’t interfere with the balance of the boat.
Capacity
Batteries for trolling machines vary in terms of capacity which is measured in ampere per hour (Ah). It is important to choose a battery with sufficient capacity to meet all your power demands on the waters. So, take into account the size of your boat, estimated usage time, and the power requirements of the motor and choose accordingly.
Cycle Life
The next thing to consider is cycle life which just like capacity varies from one battery to the other. This feature shows the number of charge and discharge cycles the battery has to endure before its capacity decreases significantly. We recommend that you get a battery with the longest cycle life you can afford.
Charging Time
Charging time is what sets apart the best battery for trolling motors from the cheap ones. No matter the size of your boat, ensure that you get a battery that offers quick charging. Such batteries are convenient to charge in between outings.
Built-Protection Features
Take a keen look at the number of built-in protection features that the battery brings to the table. A model with several protection features is the best in enhancing the battery’s safety and longevity. So, look for a battery that comes with over and under-voltage protection, over and under-discharge protection, and short-circuit protection as its protection features.
Build Quality
Go for a battery that is crafted with durability in mind. With rugged and solid construction comes reliable performance in all kinds of fishing and boating environments. On top of the robust build, it is important to get a battery that is highly resistant to impacts and shock. The best trolling motor battery should also have tightly sealed cells that lock out dust, moisture, and elements.
FAQs
- How long do batteries for trolling motors last?
The lifespan of trolling motor batteries varies from one battery to the other depending on several factors. These factors include the type of battery with lithium-ion batteries having the longest lifespan. Frequency of usage and how well you maintain the battery also play a role in determining the overall lifespan.
- What size battery is suitable for trolling?
It depends on your trolling motor and the size of your boat as well. Batteries with a capacity ranging from 50-100Ah are ideal for small-sized motors of 12V. Large motors with more than 24V on the other hand require larger capacity batteries with at least 100Ah.
- How long will a battery last on a trolling motor?
The runtime of any battery on a trolling motor depends on its Ah rating. For example, a 50Ah on a 55lb thrust trolling motor can run for one hour continuously at the highest speed.
Final Words
Batteries for trolling motors keep advancing and it is for a good reason. All the multiple options we have mentioned in this best battery for trolling motor review are a good addition to your boating necessities. Hopefully, you are now able to know which battery will suit your pocket and needs the best.
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