As an angler, navigating saltwater environments often comes with its share of challenges, you’ll need the best saltwater trolling motor to enhance your overall boating and fishing experience and, in this guide, we will walk you through the very best models and help you decide.
When looking for a saltwater trolling motor, it is important to choose one that is durable and easy to use. The motor should be designed to provide reliable and efficient propulsion all through. Additionally, the trolling motor should have scratch-proof and corrosion-resistant components to withstand the corrosive nature of salt water.
With so many saltwater trolling motors available on the market, each varies in terms of performance and reliability. We have taken our time and put together a list of the best-rated saltwater trolling motors and queries associated with them. But first up, let’s have a look at the attributes that make a trolling motor great for saltwater application.
What Makes a Great Saltwater Trolling Motor?
Several facets make a great saltwater trolling motor and the first one is corrosive-resistant components. The corrosive nature of salty water damages metal components quickly. It is there important that the trolling motor be made with corrosion-resistant metal components.
Furthermore, the trolling motor needs to be waterproof and fully sealed. This prevents the salt water from entering the components.
It is also important for the trolling motor to have a smooth and quiet operation. Too much noise prevents a stealthy approach that is vital when fishing.
Another facet that the best saltwater trolling motor should have is intuitive controls. This is essential for a positive user experience. Furthermore, the motor should be easy to install and convenient to stow.
Powerful thrust is another thing that a great saltwater trolling motor should have. The more power the thrust is, the easier it will be to control the boat even in the less-than-ideal water conditions.
Last but not least, a good saltwater trolling motor needs to have a variable speed control for easy maneuverability in different fishing conditions.
Best Saltwater Trolling Motors
1) Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Thrust:36lb and 55lb
- Horsepower: 0.48 HP /0.83 HP
- For Saltwater
- Mounting: Transom
- Speeds: 5 Forward | 3 Reverse
- Shaft Length: 24″
- Propeller: 2 Blade Small (36lb) || 3 Blade Large (55lb)
- Tiller/Handle: 6″ Telescoping
- Voltage:12V
Pros
- Even weight distribution
- Long battery life
- Adjustable depth
- Oversized tightening handles
- 8 adjustable speeds
- 5-point LED battery meter
- Extra-long 5’6” battery cables
- Low-noise
- Durable and well-made
- Powerful and reliable
Cons
- None
The Newport Kayak Series 55lb is by far the best saltwater trolling motor for kayaks. It is specifically designed for kayak anglers with features that fit the unique needs of modern anglers.
This electric trolling motor is built with user convenience in mind. It has 8 adjustable speeds; 5 forward and 3 reverse. This gives users the flexibility to adjust the speed relative to the water conditions and their boating needs.
Furthermore, the trolling motor comes with a 6-inch telescoping handle to put you in full control of your ride. The extra-long cables complement the telescoping handle and allow for versatile battery replacement and optimal weight distribution.
To top off everything else, this electric trolling motor has a durable aluminum head with corrosion-resistant hardware for saltwater use.
2) Watersnake T24 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Thrust: 18lbs ,24 lbs
- Voltage: 12V
- Amps: 9-20
- Shaft length: 24″ (61cm)
- Prop: 2 Blade, weedless design.
- Mount: Transom
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Adjustable transom
- Aluminum scissor mount
- Electric operation mode
- Stainless steel components
- Versatile
- Good value for the price
- Ease of installation
- For Inflatable Boats, Canoe, Salt Water, Fishing Boats
Cons
- None
Watersnake is committed to manufacturing high-quality electric trolling motors and the T24 ASP is not an exception. It is a 24-pound thrust electric trolling motor for powering modern kayaks, small dinghies, and canoes.
A defining feature of this motor is its sturdy yet simple design. It is built with a 3-blade propeller that cuts through the thickest conditions with ease. What’s more, this trolling motor features a heavy-duty bow mounting bracket for sturdy installation. It also boasts an anti-corrosive paint and stainless steel internal and external components to withstand corrosion.
To complement the durable construction, the trolling motor has a lightweight construction of 2.2 kgs/4.85 lbs. It is easy to steer in all conditions and comes with an extendable handle for easy speed control.
The other noteworthy features included are adjustable transom mount fitting, an anti-impact clip system, and extendable hand tiller steering.
3) Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Trolling Motor with i-Pilot
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 54″, 60″, 72″
- Thrust: 55, 80, 112 lbs
- Voltage: 12V
- Prop: Weedless Wedge 2
- Mounting:Bow-Mount
- Control: CoPilot, i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link Remote
Pros
- Quiet and powerful operation
- Low battery consumption
- Easy to install and use
- Durable and well-built
- Wireless remote with a fully redesigned layout
- One-step stow with deploy lever
- Digital maximizer
- i-Pilot integrated GPS
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Variable speed
Cons
- No foot pedal
Advanced features meet refined performance in the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Trolling Motor. This trolling motor is here to revolutionize your boating and fishing experience and make every expedition more memorable.
It has Bluetooth connectivity and pre-installed i-Pilot integrated GPS for navigation purposes. The remote control makes the motor easy to operate and with the large LCD screen, you are guaranteed intuitive navigation all through.
What’s more, this trolling motor has a powerful operation that is completely noise-free. Over and above that, it features the famous Digital Maximizer for unmatched battery life and power management.
In terms of construction, the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Trolling Motor is made using high-quality materials for unbeatable durability. All its internal and external components also feature a corrosion-resistant finish for use in salty water.
4) MotorGuide Xi3 Kayak Saltwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor with Pinpoint GPS
Specifications
- Thrust:55lbs
- Shaft length: 36”
- Voltage: 12V
- 52 Amp draw
- 83/200 kHz sonar
- Propeller: 3bl Machete
Pros
- Remote steering
- Quiet operation
- Wireless Remote steering
- Accurate GPS
- Easy deployment and stowing
- Speed control/Motor directions: Digital variable forward
- Chartplotter integration compatible
Cons
- No Pinpoint GPS
When it comes to value and performance, it is hard to beat the MotorGuide Xi3 Kayak Saltwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor. It is a 55lb-thrust trolling motor optimized for use in salt water.
This trolling motor comes with the most accurate GPS for navigation. The out-of-the-box wireless remote complements the built-in GPS and makes navigation a walk in the park. Besides that, the trolling motor comes with an 83/200 kHz sonar.
Another impressive thing about the motor is its quiet operation. It is 40% quieter than similarly-priced trolling motors to ensure stealth fishing. Furthermore, it is quick and easy to stow and deploy thanks to the SecureStep system included.
Above all, the MotorGuide Xi3 Kayak Saltwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor is made with a 3-blade machete propeller that cuts through any condition with ease.
5) Minn Kota Riptide FORTREX Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Lengths: 52-inch, 62-inch
- Voltage: 24V
- Thrust: 80lbs
- Mount: Bow mount
- Motor Style: Hand-steer
- Speed: Variable
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Indestructible construction quality
- Long-lasting run time
- Variable speed
- Marine-grade aluminum structural beam
- Lift-assist patented design
Cons
- No Auto Stow/Deploy
Next on our best saltwater trolling motor list is the Minn Kota Riptide FORTREX Bow Mount Trolling Motor. This equipment comes with all the modern features you would expect in a modern trolling motor.
Built for saltwater use, this variable-speed trolling motor is engineered and built with premium-grade marine alloy that is impervious to corrosion and rust. The indestructible composite shaft adds durability and makes the trolling motor ideal for use in all conditions.
Furthermore, the control boards of this trolling motor and fully encapsulated in marine-grade urethane. The lift assist has a patented design that cuts the weight of stow-and-deploy in half. On top of that, the trolling motor reduces steering torque at higher speeds using the integrated spring arm.
6) AQUOS Haswing White 12V 55LBS Transom Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 26 inch
- Thrust : 55 LBS
- Voltage: 12V
- Shaft Type: Aluminum Alloy
- Control Type: Remote Control
- Prop Type/Size: 3 Blade Prop / 9.3 inch diam
- Steering: 360 Degree Electric Control
Pros
- Ease of installation
- Variable speed
- 0 – 85 degree titling position
- Good features for the price
- Reliable performance
- 3 levels of battery power display (100%, 50%, 20%)
Cons
- No Wired Foot Control
Here is another high-quality trolling motor for salt and fresh water use. It is made for serious anglers who require a versatile trolling motor with a remote control.
This feature-rich transom trolling motor comes standard with a sacrificial anode, hand control, and encapsulated electronics. It also brings to the table a one-way step-less speed control and a highly responsive remote control that enables wireless control of the motor as far as 164 feet away.
When it comes to construction, this trolling motor features a 26-inch-long shaft made from aluminum alloy. This guarantees many years of use in all conditions. what’s more, the motor fin comes with a separate design for propeller protection/
7) MotorGuide Xi5 Saltwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft length: 48, 54, 60, 72 in.
- Thrust: 55, 80, 105 lbs
- Voltage: 24V
- Steering Type: Electric Steer
- Mount Type: Bow Mount
Pros
- High-efficiency electronics
- Easy to stow and deploy
- Wireless handheld control
- Easy-to-read LED dashboard
- Pinpoint GPS
- Strong and sturdy anchor
Cons
- Pontoon Models Available Not available
If you want to have total control when boating or fishing, you need the MotorGuide Xi5 Saltwater Trolling Motor. It features a quiet and highly responsive electric steering with 50% faster steering rotation.
The wireless operation of this trolling motor adds simplicity and convenience to your days on the water. The built-in GPS aids in navigation while the high-tech sonar lets you experience the freedom of total control.
Construction-wise, this trolling motor is made with durability in mind. It has a tough composite shaft that doesn’t bend or break. The quality construction coupled with the high-tech protective finish makes the trolling motor ideal for use in any water conditions.
Over and above that, the unique stow and deploy mechanism aligns and guides the motor into the stowed position and secures it in place. A secondary lock is also included to prevent accidental deployment and potential damage.
8) Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 54-inch, 60-inch, 72-inch
- Thrust: 80 and 112 lbs
- Voltage: 24V
- Motor Style: Electric-steer
- Wireless Remote
Pros
- Ease of deploying
- High-quality construction
- Accurate GPS
- Easy-to-read LCD screen
- Digital maximizer
- Weedless Wedge 2 prop
- I-Pilot GPS trolling system
- Fully encapsulated electronics
- Electric steer motor style
- Noise-free and flawless operation
Cons
- No Lift Assist
Lastly, in our best saltwater trolling motor list, we have the Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor. It is durably designed for saltwater fishing and comes with a spot-lock for accurate GPS anchoring.
A defining feature of this trolling motor is ease of use. It is easy to stow and deploy with a simple push of a button on the i-Pilot. You can also control it with ease using the remote controller included.
As outstanding as the remote-control system is so is the construction quality. This trolling motor is designed and built with advanced corrosion protection for ultimate saltwater protection. Furthermore, all the electronics are encapsulated for extra defense.
In addition to all these features, the inn Kota Riptide Ulterra Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor has a Weedless Wedge 2 prop with swept-back flared blades that power it through anything without battery-draining chopping or hacking.
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Best Saltwater Trolling Motor Buying Guide
Before you buy a saltwater trolling motor, consider the following factors:
Corrosion Resistance
This is the first feature that the best saltwater trolling motor should have. Salt is highly corrosive to metal. It causes rust that wears out metal components if left untreated. Therefore, ensure that you opt for a trolling motor that is coated with rust and corrosion-resistant coatings. Stainless steel and corrosion-resistant alloys are preferable for long-lasting protection.
Powerful Thrust
The thrust power of the trolling motor varies from one product to the other and it is measured in pounds/lbs. When fishing or boating in saltwater, the currents and wind resistance can be significant compared to freshwater. This calls for a powerful motor for effective boat control. A tip is to choose a powerful thrust that complements the size of your boat.
Waterproof Design
Prolonged exposure to water causes damage to the internal and external components of saltwater trolling motors. Ensure that you settle for a trolling motor that is fully sealed and waterproofed to prevent such damage. The waterproof construction should extend to the electrical components, wiring, as well as the motor.
Digital Technology
Next, consider the digital technology the trolling motor brings to the table. Modern saltwater trolling motors are outfitted with a myriad of digital features like GPS-enabled functions, wireless remote control, and spot-lock technology for added convenience. The more digital features a trolling motor comes with, the better your boating or fishing experience will be
Speed Control
With variable speed control comes the ability to adjust the speed of the trolling motor in different fishing conditions. So, look for a product with variable speed control if you want to match your trolling speed to your individual preferences.
Noise Level
The best saltwater trolling motor operates seamlessly and quietly. When the motor is quiet, you will hardly disturb the fish and other creatures in the water. A noise-free motor also goes a long way to ensure a stealthy approach, especially when you are pursuing species that are sensitive or easily spooked.
Durability
Another important feature to take into consideration is the durability of the saltwater trolling motor. Generally, the quality of materials used in the construction process determines the overall durability. Pick a model that is well-built with hard-wearing materials to withstand the rigors of the marine environment.
Budget
Lastly, consider your budget. The cost of saltwater trolling motors varies from one product to the other depending on the brand and quality of construction. So, look at the features that the saltwater trolling motor offers for your money and settle for the model that aligns the best with your needs and budget.
Best Saltwater Trolling Motor FAQs
- What thrust power do I need for my boat?
The thrust power that you need depends on both the weight and size of your boat. The general rule of thumb is to have 2 pounds of thrust power for every 100 pounds of boat weight. This means that large and heavy boats require more thrust power than their small counterparts.
- Are saltwater trolling motors noisy?
It depends. Some are quiet and others are significantly loud. It depends on the type of the boat and how well the trolling motor is mounted. If you have a loud motor and want to minimize the noise, ensure that you mount it accurately.
- Can I use a saltwater trolling motor on shallow waters?
Yes. Most of the saltwater trolling motors are deployable in all kinds of waters, including shallow waters. Typically, these motors are built with unique features such as shafts and adjustable depth settings for easy navigation through different water depths.
- Are saltwater trolling motors suitable for freshwater use?
Yes, they are. A saltwater trolling motor can be used in freshwater without any problem but not the other way around.
Final Words
Hopefully, this post has steered you in the right direction. When making your selection, remember that your boat type and budget play a vital role in determining the saltwater trolling motor that you buy. Take that into account and use this guide to find the trolling motor that will be a game-changer for all your marine activities.