Looking to upgrade your fishing gear with the best transom mount trolling motor? This comprehensive post is for you. We have put together a roundup of transom mount trolling motors to help you find the model that will enhance your overall fishing experience.
Among the multiple types of trolling motors available out there, transom mount trolling motors stand out as the go-to choice for most anglers and recreational boaters. These motors are mounted on the transom of the boat, kayak, or canoe. They are easy to mount and come with cutting-edge features that offer the ultimate balance of power and precision.
With intuitive and user-friendly steering mechanisms, transom mount trolling motors are ideal for all anglers including beginners. However, selecting the right model can be challenging, especially for a beginner. Luckily, we are here to help.
We have done some research to provide expert insights and buying guide tips to help you decide. With our help, you will be able to choose an efficient and durable transom mount trolling motor that suits your needs.
What is a Transom Mount Trolling Motor?
A transom mount trolling motor is a special type of motor that mounts to the transom of a boat. Once mounted, the trolling motor thrusts the boat from the back with a clamp-on bracket and features hand/tiller control. Transom trolling motors are used widely in freshwater and saltwater environments.
They are a great choice for smaller boats, dinghies and canoes. They are also great for general positioning and standard trolling.
They are known for their ease of installation and affordability which makes them particularly popular among recreational boaters and anglers for fishing applications. What’s more, most transom mount trolling motors have variable speed settings for anglers to choose from. The mount location and design also make them easy to maneuver across a wide range of marine environments.
Pros: Affordable, Easy installation
Cons: Minimal Precise Control, Not ideal for larger boats, fewer options
Best Transom Mount Trolling Motors
1) Newport Kayak Series Transom Mounted Saltwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Size: 24”
- Thrust: 36lbs,55 lbs
- Voltage: 12V
- 2-year warranty
- 6-inch telescoping handle
- For freshwater and saltwater
- Speed: 5 forward,3 reverse
Pros
- Even weight distribution
- 8 adjustable speeds
- 5-point LED battery meter
- Extra-long 5’6” battery cables
- Long battery life
- Adjustable depth
- Oversized tightening handles
- Noise-free
- Good value for the price
- Durable and well-made
Cons
- None
Newport Kayak Series is hands down the best transom mount trolling motor for Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats. It comes at a price that is easy on the wallet and has an array of features that fit the unique needs of modern anglers.
This electric trolling motor is built for use in saltwater marine environments. It has a durable aluminum motor head with corrosion-resistant hardware. Other than that, the trolling motor is intuitive and easy to use. This makes it ideal for all boaters and anglers, including beginners.
There are 8 adjustable speeds to choose from, 5 forward and 3 for 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 that gives anglers full control of the rides.
To help the telescoping handle achieve its purpose, the trolling motor comes with extra-long cables that enable versatile battery replacement and optimal weight distribution. With all these features, the trolling motor guarantees superior performance and precision control.
Video Review
2) Minn Kota Endura C2 Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 30″, 36″, 42″
- Thrust: 30, 40, 45, 50, 55 lbs
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Voltage: 12V
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Speed: 5/3 Hand Control
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Type: Transom Mount
- Prop: Power Prop
- For freshwater
Pros
- Reasonably cheap
- Cool, quiet power
- Indestructible Composite Shaft
- Durable lever-locking mounting bracket
- Ergonomic steering
- Telescoping control handle
- Virtually indestructible composite shaft
- Lightweight and easy to stow
- Ease of installation
Cons
- Use in Saltwater will Void the warranty
The Minn Kota Endura C2 Trolling Motor is the best transom trolling motor for freshwater, it is a feature-loaded trolling motor for fishing and recreational boating. It provides full control and ultra-quiet performance which is vital for fishing applications.
A defining feature of this trolling motor is rock-solid construction. It is built with a nearly indestructible composite shaft that is stronger than steel. It stands firm – pound for pound and makes the trolling motor operable in any kind of marine environment. What’s more, the shaft is bend-proof and corrosion-resistant.
The lever-locking trolling mount included is also resistant to bends and damage from UV rays. This combination of performance and durability makes the Minn Kota Endura C2 Trolling Motor an invaluable addition to any watercraft.
3) Watersnake T24 ASP Saltwater Trolling Motor
Specification
- Shaft Length: 24”
- Thrust: 18 lbs,24lbs
- For saltwater
- Voltage: 12V
- Speed: 5 forward and 3 reverse
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight construction
- Versatile
- 3-blade propeller with a weedless design
- Electric operation mode
- Stainless steel components
- Adjustable transom
- Aluminum scissor mount
- Good value for the price
- Sturdy simple design
- Ease of installation
Cons
- Not very powerful
Watersnake T24 ASP -24 Pound Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor is our third recommendation for the best transom mount trolling motor. It is an 18 or 24-pound thrust electric trolling motor for powering modern kayaks, small dinghies, and canoes.
The trolling motor is built with a simple design to accommodate anglers of all levels. It comes with a 3-blade propeller that cuts through the thickest conditions. Furthermore, it features a heavy-duty bow mounting bracket that makes the installation process quick and straightforward.
Another impressive thing about this trolling motor is it’s ideal for use in saltwater. It boasts an anti-corrosive paint and stainless steel internal and external components to withstand corrosion and UV rays.
Well, that’s not all. This transom mount trolling motor has a lightweight construction of 2.2 kgs/4.85 lbs. This means that it doesn’t add unwanted weight that can affect the balance of the watercraft. It also comes with an extendable handle for easy speed control and other noteworthy features that include an anti-impact clip system, adjustable transom mount fitting, and extendable hand tiller steering.
4) MotorGuide R3 Transom-Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 30”,36”
- Thrust: 30,40lbs
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Voltage: 12V
-
Speed: 5/2 Hand Control
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Type: Transom Mount
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For Freshwater
Pros
- Battery efficiency
- Value for the price
- One-touch, rapid slide-depth adjustment collar
- Reversible motor head
- Performance
- Powerful and well-built
Cons
- No battery meter
Here is another transom mount trolling motor that offers the ultimate strength, rigidity, and durability. It has a 30 or 40-pound thrust rating with 12V power and a 36-inch aluminum shaft.
This trolling motor is ideal for fishing and recreation boating in fresh water. It is easy to navigate across different water environments and in tight spaces as well. Besides, it provides optimal speed control with 5 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds.
In terms of construction, the trolling motor is durable enough to endure all kinds of marine environments. It boasts an aluminum alloy construction and stainless-steel hinge pins with a rugged powder coat finish.
To top off everything else, the motor head of this trolling motor is reversible for either bow or transom mount operation.
5) Minn Kota Endura Max Transom-Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft Length: 36″, 42″
- Voltage: 12V
- Thrust: 40, 45, 50, 55 lbs
- Prop: Power Prop
- Mount: Transom Mount
Pros
- High speed
- Ease of use
- Lever-lock bracket
- Digital maximizer
- Indestructible composite shaft
- Power prop
- Telescoping tiller
- Battery efficiency
- High-quality construction
Cons
- None
If you want to revolutionize your fishing, you need a quality trolling motor like the Minn Kota Endura Max Transom-Mount Trolling Motor. It takes fishing and boating to new levels, adding a Digital Maximizer that provides up to five times longer run time on a single charge.
The trolling motor is built with a telescoping tiller for easy, snug, and intuitive operation. On top of that, you get a finite adjustment of forward and reverse speed settings. As a result, you can dial in your exact speed relative to the marine environment and conserve the battery for a full day of boating or fishing.
In terms of construction, this transom-mount trolling motor has an indestructible composite shaft guaranteed for life. It is also outfitted with a solid 10-position bracket that features a quick-release lever lock.
Above all, the Minn Kota Endura Max Transom-Mount Trolling Motor runs cool and quiet to extend its life and prevent spooking the fish.
6) Pro Controll Revolution L-Type Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft length: 48”
- Thrust: 32,40,50lbs
- Speed: 5 forward ,3 reverse
- Voltage: 12V
- 12-inch extendable tilting tiller
- For Fresh Water
- Mounting:Transom Mount
Pros
- Tool-free easy installation
- Customizable speed
- Hands-on steering
- Relatively lightweight
- Ten-point battery indicator
- Versatile
- Sturdy and well-built
Cons
- None
Pro Controll Revolution L-Type Trolling Motor marks our sixth and final recommendation of the best transom mount trolling motor. It is packed with top-tier features that provide powerful freshwater performance.
The trolling motor comes with an adjustable bracket with dual mounting. It can be mounted to the bow or transom of most utility boats with gunnels less than 3” wide and 1” deep. What’s more, it comes with a 48” adjustable shaft that makes finding the right length a walk in the park.
Another facet that makes this trolling motor stand out is user convenience. It is built with a 12” extendable tiller handle to ensure comfortable and precise control. Moreover, the fixed head guarantees superior boat control whether standing or sitting.
This freshwater electric trolling motor mounts in minutes. It has a tool-free, simple installation process even for beginners. Over and above that, it features customizable trolling speed with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds and a powerful 40 lbs thrust to tackle dense cover, weeds, and obstacles.
Recommended Reads
- 8 Best Saltwater Trolling Motors
- 7 Best Trolling Motors with Spot-Lock
- 5 Best MotorGuide Trolling Motors
- 5 Best 12V Trolling Motors
- 6 Best Trolling Motors Overall
Benefits of Transom Mount Trolling Motor
Transom mount trolling motors are a popular choice among anglers and recreational boaters. They offer a plethora of benefits in the marine world and here are the key benefits.
Ease of Installation
The primary benefit of the best transom mount trolling mount is ease of installation. They are mounted at the back of the boat without requiring any extensive tools or modifications. With this simplicity, these trolling motors are a practical choice for beginners and any boat owner looking for an easy-to-install accessory for their watercraft.
Affordability
Compared to bow-mount trolling motors, transom-mount trolling motors are less expensive. This makes them an ideal choice for the budget-conscious boat owners.
Maneuverability
The position where transom mount trolling motors are mounted enhances maneuverability. With excellent maneuverability comes precision control through tight and narrow spaces, around obstacles, and in less-than-ideal water conditions.
Quiet and Smooth Operation
Trolling motors are known for their quiet operation and the transom mount models are not any different. They are noise-free, allowing anglers to move in a stealth manner through the water. As a result, you don’t have to worry about disturbing fish or the surroundings’ tranquility.
Power Efficiency
Most transom mount trolling motors are built with battery conservation features that enhance battery efficiency. The trolling motor needs to operate efficiently when you intend to spend an extended period on the water.
Versatile
Versatility is another benefit that comes with investing in the best transom mount trolling motor. These motors are ideal for use in vast marine environments from freshwater to saltwater. Besides, they are adaptable so you can use one for different types of boats.
Ease of Storage
Transom mount trolling motors come in compact sizes. This makes them easy to transport and store when not in use. On top of that, most transom mount trolling motors are built light for those who trailer their watercraft.
Next Read: Choosing Between a Bow Mount and Transom Trolling Motor
Best Transom Mount Trolling Motor Buying Guide
Whether you are looking to buy your first transom mount trolling motor or looking for an upgrade, below are the most important factors you should take into consideration.
Boat Size
The first thing to take into consideration is the size of your boat. Transom mount trolling motors have different voltage and thrust capacities suitable for boats of different sizes.
The larger the boat, the higher the thrust capacity the trolling motor should have. That way, it provides adequate power to troll the boat even in less-than-ideal water conditions.
Shaft Length
In transom mount trolling motors, the shaft length varies from one motor to the other. The length is measured in inches and you should make your selection depending on the height of your boat’s transom.
A trolling motor whose shaft is too short can cavitate and one that is too long may drag in the water. It is therefore important that you measure the distance from the mounting surface to the waterline to know the correct shaft length.
Durability
You will want a transom mount trolling motor that is crafted with high-quality materials for optimum durability. Both the shaft and the head should be made with hard-wearing materials that are bend-proof and resistant to corrosion. On top of that, the other internal and external components of the transom mount trolling motor should be made from quality materials.
Freshwater vs Saltwater
It is also important to buy a transom mount trolling motor that is specifically made for either freshwater or saltwater use. This goes a long way to maximize the durability of the motor and ensure that it performs most efficiently.
If the transom mount trolling motor is for saltwater use, it should have durable and high-quality finishes that prevent corrosion that causes rust. Stainless steel and composite materials are the best for such waters.
Noise Level
The best transom mount trolling motor operates quietly. A low-noise motor is advantageous for fishing as too much noise spooks the fish. Therefore, look for a low-noise transom mount trolling motor if you plan to use it primarily for fishing.
Customizable Speed Settings
A trolling motor with customizable speed settings is the best for both fishing and recreational boating. It should have speed settings for both forward and reverse that are easy to change. As you change the speeds, you get better control of the boat when navigating different water conditions.
Voltage Capacity
Transom mount trolling motors are available in three voltage options: 12V, 24V, and 32V. 12V and 24V are the most common motors for small and medium-sized fishing boats. On the other hand, 32V is suitable for larger boats. So, check the manual of your boat to see the recommended trolling motor voltage capacity.
Price
Last but not least, consider the cost of the transom mount trolling motor. While transom-mount trolling motors are more affordable than their bow-mount counterparts, the price varies from one motor to the other depending on the brand and features incorporated. Determine your budget and look for the trolling motor that will give you the best value for your money.
FAQs
- What size trolling motor is right for my boat?
To determine the right size trolling motor for your boat, check its size and weight and then refer to the manufacturer’s manual for recommendations on the trolling motor’s thrust and voltage capacity.
- Can I use a transom mount trolling motor in saltwater?
Yes. you can use a transom mount trolling motor in saltwater if it is built for saltwater use. Saltwater transom mount trolling motors are made with high-quality components that are not just hard-wearing, but also corrosion-resistant.
- Are transom mount trolling motors suitable for large boats?
No. Transom mount trolling motors are suitable for small and medium-sized boats. For large-sized boats, bow-mount trolling motors are preferable as they offer better control and easy maneuverability.
Final Words
We hope that you have found our post to be insightful and of great help. Keep in mind that the size and weight of your watercraft plays a vital role in determining the transom mount trolling motor that you choose. Whatever you have in mind, there is a trolling motor out there for you.