Trolling motors have taken the market by storm and it is for a good reason. They are not just powerful but also energy efficient and, in this post, we will help you find the best bow mount trolling motor for your needs.
Bow mount trolling motors are popular among anglers and recreational boaters. These trolling motors are put at the front part of the watercraft. They make it easy to move the boat sideways compared to transom motors. This allows the angler significantly greater control and positioning of the boat.
As the demand for trolling motors continues to surge, the market is now flooded with a myriad of models from different brands. We have done the legwork for you and come up with a roundup of the best bow mount trolling motors, exploring the key features that make them unique. Whether you are a beginner in fishing or a professional, these trolling motors will suit you.
What is a Bow Mount Trolling Motor?
A bow mount trolling motor is an electric type of motor that is specially designed for small and mid-sized boats. It is installed on the front deck of the boat. This positioning offers unique advantages that include easy control and maneuverability in virtually all kinds of water conditions.
Bow mount motors pull the boat through the water, as opposed to pushing it from behind , this makes steering much more precise.
Moreover, bow-mount trolling motors integrate advanced features and technology for hands-free operation. They are also known for their quiet operation which is important for maintaining a stealthy approach that doesn’t spook the fish.
Pros: Precise Boat Control and Steering, More advanced Features, Wider range of control options (hand, foot, wireless remote)
Cons: Expensive, Take Up More Room, Harder to install, take up more deck space
Best Bow Mount Trolling Motors
1) Lowrance Ghost Freshwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft length:47”,52”,60”
- Thrust: 97,120lbs
- Voltage:24v,36v
- Speed: Variable
- 3-year warranty
- For freshwater
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Accurate spot lock
- Electric fuel type
- Structures can 3D Downscan
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Configurable pedal
- Plug-and-play Lowrance sonar
- 360° breakaway mount
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Low battery draw
Cons
- For freshwater use only
First up, we have the Lowrance Ghost Freshwater Trolling Motor the best Mount Trolling Motor for freshwater and one of the most powerful trolling motors. It features a plethora of cutting-edge and revolutionary features that make it the best bow mount trolling motor.
The selling point of this freshwater trolling motor is quiet operation. It employs an ultra-quiet brushless motor to prevent spooking the fish. Besides, the motor is not just quiet but also powerful enough to provide revolutionary thrust and longer runtime.
Another impressive feature of this motor is the configurable pedal. You can easily set it to your preferences via shortcut buttons and a flip switch. What’s motor the pedal features battery-level, quick access keys, and program shortcut keys to drop a waypoint or operate the Power-pole shallow-water anchor.
The other noteworthy features the Lowrance Ghost Freshwater Trolling Motor brings to the table include plug-and-play Lowrance sonar, 360-degree breakaway mount, and a dual-action gas spring for easier launch.
2) Garmin Force Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft length:50”,57”
- Thrust: 80,100lbs
- Voltage:24v,36v
- Speed: Variable
- 3-year warranty
- For freshwater, saltwater, and brackish
Pros
- Durability
- Versatile
- Noise-free operation
- Ease of use
- Electric mode of operation
- Rugged mount
- Stainless-steel shaft
- Wireless foot pedal
- Handheld remote control
Cons
- Big budget
To fish with force, you need a powerful and reliable trolling motor like this model. It offers the best-in-class performance in all conditions and it is ideal for use in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish conditions.
When fishing, it is vital to maintain stealth to avoid spooking the fish. This trolling motor offers an exceptionally quiet operation and smooth steering. Over and above that, it comes with a precise anchor lock that holds the boat in place while you fish.
For added convenience, the Garmin Force Trolling Motor has a handheld remote control will full-color and sunlight-readable transflective display. It also features a simple chartplotter integration through a wireless connection and a wireless foot pedal which provides instant control and responsiveness.
In terms of construction, the motor is built with durability in mind with features like a high-quality mount and stainless-steel shaft. It is also built with corrosion-resistant components for use in all water conditions.
3) Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor with i-Pilot US2
Specifications
- Shaft length: 45”,52”,60”
- Thrust: 80,112 lbs
- Voltage:24v,36v
- Speed: Variable
- 3-year warranty
- For freshwater
Pros
- Quick, straightforward setup
- Sturdy and well-built
- Accurate
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Universal sonar 2
- Integrated battery meter
- Digital maximizer
- GPS control system
- Remote control operation
- Easy to use and stow
Cons
- No Bowguard
Minn Kota is a renowned brand in the realm of trolling motors. It is committed to making high-quality trolling motors and accessories and the Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor is not an exception
With wireless Bluetooth connectivity, the trolling motor stands above the rest and creates a class of its own. This connectivity enhances user convenience and makes the trolling motor easy to operate. Besides that, the layout is fully redesigned to ensure ease of use and it comprises of 33% larger LCD screen, intuitive navigation, and an expandable menu.
Another facet that is outstanding about this trolling motor is the unique Ultrex Foot Pedal with a Spot-Lock button. It gives anglers great and precise control of the boat on the water. Furthermore, the heel-toe power steering with autopilot works in tandem with the Spot-Lock to minimize the steering effort while delivering an accurate electronic GPS anchor.
This Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor also features a built-in battery meter for full-time power awareness. It also comes with a lift assist that makes it easy to stow and deploy.
4) MotorGuide X3 Freshwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 36, 45, 50 in
- Thrust: 45, 55, 70 lbs.
- Speed: 5 variable
- Voltage:12V
- Pontoon Models Available
Pros
- Precision steering
- Quiet operation
- Tough and rigid construction
- Easy to stow and deploy
- Digital power management
- Rigid aircraft-grade aluminum mount
- Corrosion-resistant shaft
- Cable steer
Cons
- Not Pinpoint GPS Compatible
Fourth on our best bow mount trolling motor list is the X3 Freshwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor. This motor delivers a lot of bang for your buck and is very easy to stow and deploy.
It is made with durability in mind. It has a rigid aircraft-grade mount and stainless-steel bushings in key wear points. The rugged composite inner shaft is surrounded by a stainless-steel outer shaft to withstand wear and tear from regular use.
To complement the tough construction, the trolling motor has a patented variable-ratio steering that lets you accurately position the boat even in windy conditions. Besides that, it is built with a composite locking pin and bushings for quiet operation.
What’s more, the trolling motor has an accurate PinPoint GPS that provides anglers with exceptional boat control. It is also designed with a foot-control unit with a heel/toe design and directional indicator.
5) Minn Kota Riptide Power Drive Saltwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft length: 54”
- Thrust: 70 lbs
- Voltage: 24v
- 2-year limited manufacturer warranty
- For saltwater
Pros
- Easy installation
- High construction quality
- Easy to use
- Weedless Wedge 2 prop
- Grit-blasted aluminum housing
- Digital maximizer
Cons
- No spot lock
Here is another electric steer bow-mount trolling motor that comes with all the modern features you would expect. It is easy to use and powerful to put you in fish and help you navigate different water conditions with ease.
The trolling motor features a 54” shaft and 70 lbs thrust. It is built with advanced corrosion protection to withstand the corrosion that comes with saltwater use. Furthermore, the shaft is virtually indestructible for the ultimate durability.
When it comes to battery life, the trolling motor employs an advanced digital maximizer which provides up to 5 times longer run time on a single battery change. Even better, the variable speed dial included gives you the flexibility to tailor the speed of the motor as you need, helping you to conserve the battery even further.
In addition to all these features, this bow-mount trolling motor comes with swept-back flared blades to power the boat through anything without draining the battery quickly.
6) Minn Kota Terrova Bow Mount Bluetooth Trolling Motor with i-Pilot US2 and Foot Pedal
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 45, 54, 60, or 72-inch
- Thrust: 80 lbs
- Voltage: 12V,24V,36V
-
Speed: Variable
- For Freshwater
Pros
- Quick, straightforward setup
- Quality construction
- Great spot lock
- Universal Sonar 2
- Low-profile electric foot pedal
- i-Pilot GPS
- Electric-steer
Cons
- No Auto Stow/Deploy
When it comes to reliability and performance, it is hard to go wrong with Minn Kota Terrova Trolling Bow Mount. It is recommended for freshwater use and comes with an easy-to-deploy system that gets you fishing quickly.
The build quality of this trolling motor is outstanding. It has a virtually indestructible shaft that withstands wear and tear. Other than that, this trolling motor is built with a low-profile electric foot pedal that offers two steering options; heel/toe pedal and left/right steering.
For ease of navigation, the trolling motor has a highly accurate GPS and an i-Pilot link system for convenient control of the motor from the touchscreen remote. On top of that, the motor comes with a heading sensor and mounting hardware with cable.
This bow-mount trolling motor is built with user convenience in mind. It is not just easy to install but also easy to stow and deploy. Over and above that, it offers optimal sonar performance to help you find fish without strain.
7) Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 54″
-
Volts: 24
-
Thrust : 80 lbs
-
Speed: Variable
-
Type: Bow Mount
- 2-year limited manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Intuitive navigation
- Easy to deploy and stow
- Weedless wedge 2 prop
- Advanced corrosion protection
- CoPilot control
- Digital maximizer
- Variable speed
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Quiet yet powerful operation
Cons
- The remote is expensive to replace
The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova marks our last recommendation for the best bow mount trolling motor. It is an electric steered trolling motor with 24 voltage capacity and a peak thrust of 80 lbs.
This trolling motor is crafted with advanced corrosion protection. Its housing is grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidation that causes rust. On top of that, all the components have a layer of powder coat paint that provides the ultimate protection from corrosion and scratches.
With this bow-mount trolling motor, you can power your fishing boat through anything. This is thanks to the weedless wedge 2 props that power it even in less-than-ideal marine environments.
Furthermore, the motor features a digital maximizer that provides up to 5 times longer runtime on a single battery charge. The speed is also customizable to various settings to conserve the battery for a full day of fishing.
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Benefits of Bow Mount Trolling Motors
There are a range of benefits that bow mount trolling motors offer to make your boating or fishing experience more efficient. They include:
Precise Control
The primary benefit of bow mount trolling motors is precise boat control. It is easier to pull a boat than to push it in the waters. Bow-mount trolling motos make the boat easy to pull, maneuver, and control in challenging water controls.
Quiet Operation
Most trolling motors are designed to operate quietly and bow-mount models are not an exception. This is particularly important while fishing. The ability to move the boat quietly through the waters helps avoid spooking or disturbing the fish and other species in the water.
Better Control in Shallow Waters
Bow-mount trolling motors excel in various challenging conditions including shallow waters. They provide access to the challenging areas where transom trolling motors might struggle.
Stability
Another benefit of bow-mount trolling motors is stability. Mounting the bows at the front deck of the boat contributes to even weight distribution. As a result, the boat is stable and smooth to operate even in windy conditions.
Energy Efficiency
Most bow-mount trolling motors are made with energy efficiency in mind. With the longer battery run time, anglers can concentrate more on their fishing instead of worrying about running out of power.
Improved Fishing Experience
Whether you are a fishing professional or a beginner, a bow mount trolling motor will provide access to areas that are rich in fish and improve your overall fishing experience.
Best Bow Mount Trolling Motor Buying Guide
Whether you are buying a bow mount trolling motor for the first time or looking for an upgrade, below is a list of the important factors to take into account when making your selection.
Thrust Power
The thrust power in trolling motors varies from one motor to the other. It is a critical factor that determines the ability of the motor to propel the boat through different marine environments. Take into account the size and weight of the boat to choose the right thrust power.
Size and Weight
It is important to pay attention to the size and weight of the trolling motor when making your selection. We recommend lightweight and compact trolling motors for the best bow mount trolling motor. Such a motor will be easy to install and won’t add unnecessary weight to the boat.
Durability
High-quality construction is an important feature that trolling motors should have. Opt for a model that is crafted with the most top-tier materials you can afford. On top of that, the trolling motor should be built with internal and external components that are fully resistant to oxidation and scratches.
Mounting Compatibility
Different bow mount trolling motors feature different types of mounts. So, ensure that the model you choose is compatible with your boat. If you are buying a trolling motor for the first time, you should check the manufacturer’s manual for mount compatibility.
Noise Level
The next important thing to consider is the noise level. The best bow mount trolling motor has a quiet operation which is vital for fishing, especially for those who go fishing in calm or narrow waters where the fish can easily detect the noise.
Foot Vs Remote Control
Bow mount trolling motors fall under two categories; foot-controlled motors and remote-controlled motors. Both allow hands-free control of the motor but remote-controlled motors have the added advantage of controlling and navigating the motor without being near it. So, decide whether you like the foot or remote control based on your needs and preferences.
Budget
It is also important to consider the budget. Just like any other trolling motor, bow-mount trolling motors come at varying price tags to meet the budget needs of different users out there. So set a budget and look for the trolling motor that aligns with that budget.
Best Bow Mount Trolling Motor FAQs
- How long can you run a trolling motor on battery?
You can run a 110 Ah-rated battery for 6 to 8 hours before recharging it. However, if your battery has a lower power rating, you should calculate its runtime depending on its capacity.
- Can I run a bow mount trolling motor on a regular battery?
Yes, you can. However, it is not the most ideal option given that trolling motors require deep-cycle batteries which are designed to provide steady runtime over an extended period.
- What size bow mount trolling motor do I need for my boat?
The appropriate bow mount trolling motor for your boat depends on several factors including the size and weight of your boat and the environments you will using the motor in. A tip is to get a trolling motor with sufficient thrust to handle the weight of the boat in a wide range of environments.
Final Words
The key to making your boating or fishing experience fun and successful is having the right gear and tools at hand. All the bow mount trolling motors mentioned above offer the essential features you need to take your boating experience a notch higher. Look at the specifications that make each motor the right purchase and choose accordingly.
Read Also: 5 Best Brushless Trolling Motors