When it comes to picking the best trolling motor for inflatable boats, there are plenty of options available on the market. These trolling motors are equipped with different features and technologies to suit different boating needs and preferences.
As exciting as fishing and recreational boating expeditions are, they are more fun-filled when you have the right gear. One of the most important pieces of equipment that you need is a trolling motor to propel your inflatable boat.
Trolling motors for inflatable boats come in different types suitable for different sizes of boats. They are simple to use, well-built, and easy to stow and deploy. What’s more, they offer a perfect balance of power, efficiency, and convenience to ensure that you achieve the most out of your activities on the waters.
In this post, we have a roundup of the best trolling motors for inflatable boats to help you decide. Additionally, we have attached a buying guide with queries associated with it. But first up, here are the attributes to look for in the best trolling motor for inflatable boats.
What Makes a Great Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boat?
Here are the key attributes that make a great trolling motor for inflatable boats.
Powerful Thrust
First and foremost, a great trolling motor should have a thrust that is powerful enough to power the inflatable boat in all water conditions. The thrust should also be suitable for the size and weight of the boat.
Durable Construction
It is also important for the trolling motor to be crafted with durability in mind. It should have encapsulated components and corrosion-resistant coatings to withstand exposure to elements like salt and others.
Easy Mounting System
Furthermore, a great trolling motor for inflatable boats needs to have an easy mounting system. On top of that it should be quick and easy to stow and deploy.
Variable Speed
A trolling motor with variable speed settings gives users the flexibility to tailor the speed depending on the water conditions. With a range of speed settings to pick from, you can navigate the boat through anything without strain.
Lightweight Design
Furthermore, the best trolling motor for inflatable should have a lightweight design. This helps ensure that the buoyancy and performance of the boat are not interfered with.
Good Warranty
Last but not least, a trolling motor for inflatable boats should come with a good warranty of at least 2 years. This guarantees quality as well as assistance when the need for replacement arises.
Best Trolling Motors for Inflatable Boats
Whether you are looking for an inflatable boat trolling motor for fishing or recreational boating activities, here are the very best models worth your consideration. Let’s have a look.
1) Watersnake T24 ASP Transom Mount Trolling Motor
Watersnake T24 ASP is by far the best trolling motor for inflatable boats. This trolling motor is multi-platform friendly and has a sturdy and simple design that makes it easy to use even for beginners in boating. for kayaks for beginners.
Its versatile mounting nature can be attributed to its lightweight construction. It weighs a mere 2.2kgs which makes it easy to install. Further, light construction also ensures that it does not add unnecessary bulk to the inflatable boat and interfere with its balance and performance.
The trolling motor is saltwater-rated. It mounts to the transom of the inflatable and features a Venom head design that incorporates a thick ergonomic grip for the tiller handle. Besides that, it comes with an extendable handle for precise control of the boat.
What’s more, this saltwater-rated trolling motor has 34lbs thrust and 12V capacity which is more than sufficient for inflatable boats and other watercraft like canoes and kayaks. Over and above that, it boasts an ultra-durable and responsive steel shaft that works with the two-blade propeller to help you propel the boat in different water conditions.
Specifications
- Thrust: 24 lb.
- Volts: 12V.
- Amps: 9-20.
- Shaft: 24″ (61cm).
- Prop: 2 Blade, weedless design.
- Electric type of fuel
- 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds
- Saltwater-rated
Pros
- Sturdy and Simple Design: The Watersnake T24 ASP is built with durability in mind, ensuring long-lasting performance for saltwater anglers.
- Versatile Power Options: It offers 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds, providing ample control for various fishing situations.
- Weedless Propeller Design: The propellers are designed to be weedless, allowing the motor to navigate through vegetation without getting tangled.
- Stainless Steel Propeller Shaft: This adds to the motor’s durability and resistance to corrosion, especially important for saltwater use.
- Ease of Attachment and Adjustment: The upgraded grips on the alloy transom mount make it easy to secure and adjust the motor, enhancing user convenience
Cons
- Limited Voltage Compatibility: The motor operates on 12V power only, which may limit its use for boaters who require higher voltage systems for their operations.
2) INTEX 68631E Transom Trolling Motor
The Intex Trolling Motor is a perfect addition to your favorable inflatable Intex boat. It features built-in motor mount fittings for ease of installation and a high-quality 36” shaft to propel your boat through anything.
The selling point of this trolling motor is its quiet operation. This makes it an ideal tool for fishing given that it doesn’t spook the fish away. Furthermore, the handle is adjustable to accommodate anglers of different heights.
With a lightweight construction of 17 pounds only, this trolling motor is not just easy to install, but also straightforward and quick to stow and deploy. It also features a digital maximizer that enhances battery life and a water cooling system that supplies only the necessary power.
In addition to all these benefits, the Intex Trolling Motor is ideally suited for both freshwater and saltwater adventures in all kinds of water conditions.
Specifications
- 36-inches shaft length
- 12V DC battery
- 420W maximum power draw
- 40lbs/180N thrust
- Transom mount type
- Rated for freshwater and saltwater use
- Automatic escape weed control key
- 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds
- 6-inch adjustable handle
- Digital maximizer
Pros
- Weed Escape Function: The motor is designed with a unique weed escape function that rapidly switches propellers between forward and reverse, helping to free the motor from weeds and ensuring smooth operation in vegetative waters.
- Battery Efficiency: The auto power modulation feature helps lengthen battery life, providing longer periods of use on the water without needing frequent recharges.
- Comprehensive Control Panel: Equipped with a battery meter, dry operation, and overload indicators, the control panel offers critical information and control options, enhancing user confidence and safety.
- Adjustable Control Handle: The multi-position tiller with an extendable and tiltable handle (up to 6 inches and 8 positions) allows for ultimate convenience and personalized control for the user.
- Compatibility: The motor is compatible with a range of INTEX boats, including the Challenger 3, Seahawk 2, 3, and 4, Excursion 4 and 5, and Mariner 3 and 4, making it versatile for different boating needs.
Cons
- Limited Boat Compatibility: While it is compatible with several INTEX boats, its usage is restricted to these specific models, limiting its flexibility for boaters who own other brands or types of boats.
3) Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor
Here is another transom-mounted trolling motor that comes with all the modern features you would expect. The motor comes at a price that is easy on the wallet but does not cut any corners on quality or performance.
It is built with a 30” composite shaft that is nearly indestructible. The quality construction makes it stronger than its counterparts made with steel. Besides, it is ultra-light and tough enough to be flexed on impact without breaking or corroding.
More importantly, this trolling motor comes with a telescoping tiller for comfortable and convenient steering. It extends up to 6” to enable versatile fishing for users of different heights. Furthermore, the motor is outfitted with swept-back flared blades to propel your inflatable boat through anything without battery-draining chopping and hacking.
As outstanding as the Minn Kota Endura C2 30 quality is so it’s quiet operation. It has extra-large windings and commutators to dissipate heat. This results in a cooler and quieter operation in all water conditions. The trolling motor also boasts variable speed settings that give users total control in all situations.
Specifications
- 30” shaft
- 12V battery
- 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds
- 6-inch telescoping handle
- Tilt twist tiller
- 30lbs maximum thrust
- Freshwater rated
- Lever lock bracket
- Indestructible composite shaft
- Transom mount
Pros
- Lever Lock Bracket: The 10-position bracket with a quick-release lever lock is made from reinforced composite material, which resists flexing, warping, and UV damage, ensuring long-lasting durability and ease of use.
- Telescoping Tiller: The six-inch telescoping tiller offers easy, comfortable, and intuitive operation, enhancing user experience and control.
- Speed Settings: With 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings, the motor provides versatile speed options to suit various fishing conditions, making it highly adaptable.
- Power Prop: The power prop designed for 3-1/4″ motor diameters delivers extra thrust to navigate through heavy vegetation, ensuring consistent performance in challenging environments.
- Indestructible Composite Shaft: The composite shaft is stronger than steel, flexes on impact, and is resistant to breaking, kinking, or corrosion, providing unparalleled reliability and toughness
Cons
- Limited to Freshwater Use: The motor is designed specifically for freshwater, limiting its use for anglers who need a motor that can withstand the harsher conditions of saltwater environments.
4) AQUOS Hawswing White 12V 55LBS 26inch Transom Trolling Motor
Our next pick of the best trolling motor for inflatable boats is the AQUOS Hawswing White 12V 55LBS 26inch Transom Trolling Motor. It is made for serious fishermen who require a versatile and power-efficient trolling motor to guide their boats in the waters.
This transom-mount trolling motor is feature-packed with cutting-edge features to take your boating to the next high level. It comes with one-way step-less control, a sacrificial anode, and other user-friendly features to make your fishing less taxing. What’s more, it boasts a remote control with an effective wireless control range of 164 feet.
Another impressive thing about the motor is the variable speed settings. You can dial in your desired speed and get precise and smooth adjustments with improved control. Furthermore, you can tilt in and out of the water when the depth or fishing condition changes.
When it comes to construction, this trolling motor is crafted with durability in mind. It has encapsulated electronics for added protection from damage. It is also built with a 3-blade prop and a motor fin with a separate design for propeller protection.
Specifications
- 1-way step-less speed control
- 3 levels LED battery power reader
- 26-inch cast aluminum shaft
- 0-85°degree tilting position
- 12 volts
- 600W max power rating
- Transom mount
- Encapsulated electronics
- Wireless remote control
Pros
- Versatile Control Options: The Cayman T Trolling Motor offers both hand remote and wired foot control pedal options, providing flexibility and convenience for serious fishermen.
- Variable Speed Control: Equipped with one-way stepless speed control, it allows for precise and smooth speed adjustments, enhancing maneuverability and control on the water.
- Cruise Control: The cruise control feature helps maintain the desired speed using a wireless remote control, allowing you to focus on fishing. This feature is especially useful for maintaining a consistent trolling speed.
- Adjustable Shaft Length: With a total shaft length of 26 inches and an adjustable length of 16 inches, the motor can be easily adapted to different water depths and fishing conditions, improving its versatility.
- Salt and Fresh Water Compatibility: The motor is suitable for both salt and fresh water, making it a versatile option for various fishing environments.
Cons
- Manual Direction Correction Needed: While the cruise control feature maintains speed, it does not have spot lock capabilities, meaning you may need to manually correct the boat’s direction due to wind or current, which can be inconvenient during fishing.
5) MotorGuide 940200050 X3 Freshwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Here is another bow-mount trolling motor for inflatable boats that is renowned for its reliability and performance. It is overbuilt to handle it all and to give you precise control of the boat’s maneuverability in all conditions.
When it comes to fishing, there is no substitute for precision. As such, the trolling motor comes with a dual cable pull-pull system that makes pedal steering instantaneously responsive to your commands. Furthermore, it moves in silence to prevent spooking the fish.
Construction-wise, this trolling motor has a rigid, aircraft-grade aluminum mount and stainless-steel bushings in key wear points. The rugged composite inner shaft is built tough and surrounded by a stainless-steel outer shaft for ultimate durability.
In addition to all these benefits, the MotorGuide 940200050 X3 Trolling Motor has patented Variable Ratio Steering that helps with accurate positioning of the boat in windy, rough waters and in any other challenging conditions
Specifications
- Freshwater rated
- Foot-control unit
- 36-inch shaft
- 45 pounds peak thrust
- Digital power management
- Variable ratio steering, VRS
- Aircraft-grade aluminum mount
- Bow mounting type
Pros
- Patented Variable Ratio Steering (VRS): The VRS system allows for precise and accurate positioning of your boat, even in challenging conditions such as wind and rough water, ensuring optimal control and maneuverability.
- Hands-Free Operation: The foot-control unit with a heel/toe design and directional indicator lets you steer the boat while keeping both hands free for fishing, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
- Durable Construction: The use of rigid aircraft-grade aluminum for the mount and stainless steel bushings ensures dependable performance and long-lasting durability, even under heavy use.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: The composite precision locking pin and composite bushings installed in key areas make the motor ultra-quiet on the water, minimizing disturbance and helping you stay stealthy while fishing.
- Optimized for Freshwater Use: Designed specifically for freshwater environments, this trolling motor is tailored to meet the needs of freshwater anglers, providing reliable and effective performance in these conditions.
Cons
- Not HD+ Universal Sonar and Pinpoint GPS Compatible
- For Freshwater use only
Next Reads
- 4 Best Trolling Motors for Pontoon Boats
- 6 Best Trolling Motors for Kayaks
- 6 Best 24V Trolling Motors
Reasons to Get a Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boat
Getting a trolling motor for your inflatable boat comes with multiple benefits. They include:
Precise Maneuverability and Control
This is the primary benefit of getting the best trolling motor for inflatable boats. The motor gives you precise control of the boat as you maneuver different water conditions.
Adjustable Speed
Furthermore, a trolling motor that comes with adjustable speed settings gives you the ability to tailor the speed of the inflatable boat relative to your needs and preferences. This is essential for fishing as well as recreational boating.
Enhanced Speed
Trolling motors enhance the speed of inflatable boats even in windy and high tides. As a result, you can cover more distance within a shorter period.
Versatility
Moreover, trolling motors are made with versatility in mind. With one motor, you can use it on boats, kayaks, and canoes. Besides, they are ideally suited for fishing, recreational use, and other applications.
Ease of Use
Trolling motors are made for use by all people, no matter their skills or level of expertise. They are simple to install and easy to operate as well. What’s more, most trolling motors for inflatable boats come with features like remote control or foot pedals that make them easy to operate while focusing on other aspects of your fishing expedition.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boats
Whether you are buying a trolling motor for the first time or looking for an upgrade, consider the following factors when making your selection.
Freshwater Vs Saltwater
This is the first thing to consider. Is the trolling motor for freshwater or saltwater use? The two water conditions require a trolling motor that is optimized for such environments. If it is for saltwater use, the trolling motor should have encapsulated internal and external components that are durable and corrosion-resistant to repel the salt.
Mounting Type
The second thing to take into account is the type of mount the trolling motor uses. It can be a transom or bow type of mount. Choosing between the two is largely a matter of individual preference.
Bow mount trolling motors are preferred for the precise control and maneuverability they provide across vast environments. Transom mounts on the other hand are simpler to install and more versatile as they are ideal for use with a wide range of watercraft from boats to canoes to kayaks.
Durability
There is no doubt that the durability and longevity of trolling motors for inflatable boats are dependent on the nature of construction. A model that is built with an indestructible shaft is recommended for both boating and fishing in freshwater or saltwater areas. Furthermore, it is important that you pick a trolling motor that is made with encapsulated internal and external components for added protection and durability.
Speed Settings
Whether you purpose to use the trolling motor for recreational boating, fishing, or any other use, ensure that it comes with variable speed settings. With such a model, you will have full control of the boat in the palm of your hand.
First and foremost, you will have easy control of the inflatable boat in vast water conditions. A trolling motor with variable speed settings also makes it easy to maneuver the boat in dense vegetation, windy environments, or high tides.
Shaft Length
In trolling motors, the shaft length is different from one model to the other. A tip is to pick a model whose shaft length is suitable for the transom or bow of your boat. To know the ideal length, the shaft needs to be submerged at a depth that ensures efficient and effective propulsion. So, measure the distance from the surface of the trolling mount to the waterline to know the appropriate shaft length.
Battery Voltage
The next important factor to take into consideration is battery voltage. Most of the trolling motors for inflatable boats run on 12V batteries. However, some motors are designed for 24V batteries to power heavy and large-sized boats. Check the manufacturer’s manual for the right battery voltage.
Energy Efficiency
Battery efficiency is an integral feature that the best trolling motor for an inflatable boat should have. This is irrespective of its intended use or capacity. so, opt for a model that comes with a couple of battery-saving features to help you get the most out of your expeditions.
FAQs
- Can I put a trolling motor on my inflatable boat?
Yes, you can add a trolling motor to your inflatable boat for precise control and easy maneuverability in high tides, windy conditions, and tight spaces. Just ensure that you position it correctly and reinforce it with the right tools.
- How fast are trolling motors?
The maximum speed of trolling motors is 5mph. This is regardless of the battery voltage or the peak thrust the motor comes with. This speed is what makes trolling motors ideal for fishing and recreation boating.
- How deep should a trolling motor be in the water?
The propeller tip of the trolling motor should be at least 12 inches below the water line to prevent churning and agitation of the water surface.
Final Words
Hopefully, our article has given you some insights into the best trolling motor for inflatable boat. Keep in mind the size and weight of your inflatable boat play a big role in determining the trolling motor that you get. Choosing the right model for your needs may take some time but irrespective of what your needs are, there is a trolling motor out there for everyone.