Looking for the best trolling motor with spot lock? This comprehensive guide is for you. Trolling motors are revolutionizing the fishing experience of every angler out there and we have a list of the most reliable and quality models with spot lock.
Driven by a never-ending desire to help fishing enthusiasts find more fish, trolling motors are a handy companion for every user no matter their experience. In addition to the spot lock feature, these devices boast a host of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features to make your expeditions fun and less taxing.
What is a Trolling Motor with Spot Lock?
A spot lock feature in a trolling motor in simple terms is a technology that allows the trolling motor to automatically and precisely hold its position in a specific location.
When the spot lock is engaged, the trolling motor uses GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to determine its current location. Once the desired position is reached, the trolling motor uses its internal system to make adjustments and maintain the boat in that exact location. This can be extremely beneficial for anglers who want to focus on fishing without constantly having to manually control the trolling motor to stay in place.
This is particularly useful for anglers who want to stay in a certain spot while fishing, especially in situations where maintaining position is crucial, such as in windy conditions or when fishing a specific structure.
This spot lock function alone won’t work optimally. It is therefore equipped with a built-in GPS for navigation purposes. The GPS technology complements the function of the spot lock by providing a precise location of the boat automatically. This enables easy anchoring with or without traditional anchors.
How the Spot Lock Function Works
A trolling motor with spot lock works by providing hands-free fishing. The built-in GPS technology determines the precise location of the boat on the water. After the angler finds the ideal fishing position, they can use the remote control or control panel to activate the spot lock feature.
The spot lock once activated uses the data collected by the built-in GPS to adjust the heading and thrust of the boat. What’s more, it compensates for any wind, current, and wave action to keep the boat in the position it was initially locked in.
Other than the spot lock function, trolling motors come with a plethora of cutting-edge features like variable speed control and fish finder integration to enhance your overall fishing experience. On top of that, they provide quiet propulsion for convenient maneuvering in a wide range of fishing scenarios.
Best Trolling Motors with Spot Lock
Let’s now delve into the best trolling motors with spot lock.
1) Lowrance Ghost – Freshwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft size:47”,52” and 60”
- Max Thrust: 120 Lbs At 36v; 97 Lbs At 24v
- Mount: Bow
- For Freshwater only
- 3-year warranty and Lifetime Warranty On Shaft
- Voltage: 24v Or 36v
Pros
- Autopilot with custom routes, anchor lock, heading lock, and Turn Patterns
- Silent operation
- Easy to Stow and Go
- Plug-and-play Lowrance sonar
- Ultra-quiet brushless motor
- 3-in-1 nosecone with Lowrance CHIRP
- Side scan and down scan imaging
- Configurable pedal
- Fly-By-Wire Steering
- Accurate spot lock
- Low battery draw
- Fastest Top-End Speed
Cons
- Expensive
Lowrance offers a wide range of quality fishing tools and equipment and the Ghost – Freshwater Trolling Motor is not an exception. It is built rugged, reliable, and with ease of use in mind to help anglers make the most out of their fishing.
The selling point of this equipment is its silent operation. It runs on an ultra-quiet brushless motor with the most thrust but noiseless operation. This motor emits zero electromagnetic interference for clear and interference-free sonar views on the fish-finder display.
Another thing that makes it the best trolling motor with spot lock is the configurable pedal. The pedal features battery-level, anchor/heading mode, and quick access keys as well. Other than that, the trolling motor comes with plug-and-play sonar options for optimal functionality.
2) Minn Kota Terrova Bow Mount Bluetooth Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Voltage: 12V/24V
- Thrust: 55lbs /80lbs
- 2-year limited warranty
- Shaft Length: 45”,54” and 60”
- For Freshwater
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Push-to-test battery meter
- Digital maximizer
- Wireless remote control
- Pre-installed i-Pilot integrated GPS
- Lift assist
- Foot pedal with momentary on
- Intuitive navigation
- Improved GPS
- Easy to deploy and store
Cons
- No Auto Stow/Deploy
This is another top-tier trolling motor with all the advanced features you would expect. It is made with ease of use mind to take your fishing a notch higher and make every outing successful and memorable.
It comes with Bluetooth connectivity in the pre-installed i-Pilot integrated GPS. This enables convenient navigation on the water. On top of that, this trolling motor has wireless control with a fully redesigned layout comprising of a large LCD screen and expandable menus. The remote also controls the motor, spot lock, cruise control, and others.
To complement the advanced features, this product is made with durability in mind to last a lifetime. The foot pedal has extensive operations right at your toes for the easiest use. Over and above that, this trolling motor provides a quiet but powerful operation.
3) Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft: 54” ,60” and 72”
- Voltage: 24V,36V
- Thrust: 80lbs
- Motor Style: Electric-steer
- Mounting: Bow-mount
- GPS Control System: i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link
Pros
- Ease of deploying
- Great quality
- Variable speed
- i-Pilot GPS trolling system
- Wireless remote control
- Electric steer
- Flawless operation
Cons
- Big budget
Next up, we have the Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra Saltwater Bow-Mount Trolling Motor. It is durably designed for saltwater fishing and features a myriad of highly advanced features ideal for all anglers, even beginners.
This trolling motor comes with an i-Pilot GPS for navigation. It sets spot locks, records paths, and controls speed and steering. What’s more, the autopilot makes boat positioning and control automatic and you can easily take command from the large and intuitive LCD screen.
As outstanding as the build quality of this trolling motor is, so is the battery life. It comes with a digital maximizer which provides up to 5 times longer run time on a single battery charge. Moreover, the variable speed trolling motor lets you dial in the exact speed that you need to conserve your battery.
4) Garmin Force 50” Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Thrust :80/100 lbs
- 50-inch shaft length
- Voltage: 24 V or 36 V
- For use in freshwater, brackish water and saltwater
- Mount style: scissor-style mount
Pros
- Remarkable efficiency
- Quiet operation
- Water-resistant, floating remote
- Integrated sonar
- Built-in autopilot
- Wireless foot pedal
- Dual gas springs
- Dual gas springs lift assist
- Smartwatch integration
- Robust and easy to use
- Wireless chartplotter integration
Cons
- None
Garmin Force Trolling Motor marks our fourth pick of the best trolling motor with spot lock. If you are looking to take your fishing to the next big level, you should add this equipment to your collection of fishing tools.
This trolling motor is compatible with 24V and 36V battery systems for optimal flexibility. It is recommended for salt water use where it offers an operation that is not just efficient, but also noise-free.
Furthermore, the trolling motor provides a powerful 80/100 pounds of thrust. As a result, it can maneuver different water conditions with ease. Over and above that, the motor operates quietly so it won’t fuzz up the sonar screens with static.
In addition to all these benefits, the Garmin Force Trolling Motor features a 50-inch shaft length for added versatility
5) MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Voltage: 12V
- Shaft: 36, 48, 54, 60 in.
- Thrust: 55 lbs
- 2-year warranty
- Mount type: Bow Mount
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Easy to deploy and store
- 3-blade machete propeller
- Easy-to-read LED dashboard
- 60 inches long composite shaft
- Digital power management
- SecureStep lever
- 2D Integrated Sonar
- Reasonably affordable
Cons
- None
Trolling motors with spot lock don’t have to cost a fortune. The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor comes at a reasonably fair price and doesn’t compromise on quality or features.
The wireless control and optional GPS capabilities of this trolling motor are ready out of the box. They add simplicity and convenience to every day on the water. On top of that, this trolling motor comes with a host of high-tech options like built-in sonar and an onscreen control display for optimum convenience.
What’s more, the MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor has a large SecureStep lever for easy stowing and safe deployment. It delivers 55 pounds of peak thrust and has a 60-inch-long composite shaft with a 3-blade machete propeller. This makes it ideal for use in virtually any water condition.
Another impressive thing about this trolling motor is its quiet operation. It has a highly efficient motor that provides the best-in-class noise-free operation that is 40% quieter than similarly-priced troll motors.
6) Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor with i-Pilot US2
Specifications
- Shaft: 45” ,52”
- Volatge: 24V ,36V
- 3-year limited warranty
- Thrust: 80, 112lbs
- Motor Style: Hybrid cable-steer / electric-steer
- Mounting Location: Bow-mount
Pros
- Ease of installation
- Sturdy and well-built
- Accurate
- Easy to use and stow
- Universal sonar 2
- Integrated battery meter
- Digital maximizer
- GPS control system
- Remote control operation
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- No Bowguard
A long day on the waters fishing can be taxing, but Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor is proof that it doesn’t have to be so. It features i-Pilot, US2 which makes it the most advanced trolling motor to date.
With Bluetooth connectivity, this trolling motor stands above the rest and creates a class of its own. It has a wireless remote control for added convenience and a fully redesigned layout that comprises of 33% larger LCD screen, intuitive navigation, and expandable menus.
The included Ultrex Foot Pedal gives more control with the Spot-Lock button. Furthermore, a heel-toe power steering with autopilot works together with the Spot-Lock to reduce the steering effort, minimize foot fatigue, and deliver a highly accurate electronic GPS anchor.
Well, that’s not all. The Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor has an integrated battery meter for full-time power awareness. It also brings to the table a lift-assist for cutting the weight of stowing and a digital maximizer for power management and unbeatable battery life.
7) Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Specifications
- Shaft: 45” .52”,60”
- Thrust: 80lbs ,122lbs
- 2-year limited manufacture warranty
- Voltage: 24v ,36V
Pros
- Fast and responsive steering
- MEGA down/side-imaging
- i-Pilot link integrated GPS trolling system
- Spot-lock with jog
- Lift assist
- Digital maximizer
- Multifunction foot pedal
- Easy to use and stow
- Incredible accuracy
- Low battery consumption
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Takes time to install
Our last recommendation of the best trolling motor with spot lock is Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor. It hosts a myriad of cutting-edge features like Mega Side Imaging and i-Pilot links to help you make the most out of your fishing excursions.
A defining feature of this equipment is ease of use. The autopilot navigates the boat in any direction you choose. All that you need to do is activate it and point the head of the trolling motor in the direction that you want it to go. Even better, the autopilot corrects for wind, waves, and current.
With the built-in MEGA side and down imaging, this trolling motor provides crisp-clear Hummingbird MEGA side imaging and MEGA down imaging with a clean look and protected housing.
To complement that, this equipment has an industry-exclusive digital maximizer which provides up to five times longer run time on a single battery charge. Thanks to the nitrogen-gas-charged spring, the weight of the stow is cut in half. This makes the trolling motor convenient to stow.
Above all, the Minn Kota Ultrex Bow Mount Trolling Motor has a multifunction foot pedal and power steering for precision control and immediate responsiveness in any kind of water condition.
Next Read: Best 12V Trolling Motors
How to Choose the Best Trolling Motor with Spot Lock
To choose the best trolling motor with spot lock, consider the following:
Boat Size
The first thing to consider is the size of your boat. The best trolling motor with spot lock should have enough thrust to maneuver your boat effectively. It should also complement your boat type and ensure easy control of it, especially in the high tides and unfavorable weather conditions.
Build Quality
It is with no doubt that the build quality of trolling motors determines their overall durability. Access the nature of construction of the trolling motor and settle for one that is made with hard-wearing materials.
In addition to the sturdy construction, the trolling motor needs to have seals that lock out moisture. Furthermore, all components should be corrosion-resistant for added protection.
Motor Style
What motor style best suits your fishing style and needs? It can be an electric-steer motor, cable-steer motor, or a hand control motor.
Electric steer motors are the best for anyone new to fishing. These models offer multiple control options like i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link that are intuitive and incredibly easy to use. With these functions, one can spend more time fishing rather than adjusting the boat.
Cable steer motors on the other hand are known for their ruggedness and responsiveness even in unforgiving water conditions. A trolling motor in this category depends on a cable that connects it directly to the foot pedal. They provide additional protection from weeds and stumps in shallow waters making them a popular choice for bass fishermen.
Hand control motors have a tiller handle for responsive control. These types of trolling motors use both traditional steering and industry-leading Minn Kota technology to provide precise control and easy maneuverability.
Noise Level
The next thing to consider is the noise level of the trolling motor. The best trolling motor with spot lock provides a smooth and quiet operation. With the low-noise operation, the motor helps you maintain a stealthy approach as you fish.
Mounting Location
It is also important to determine where you will be mounting your motor. Different trolling motors have different mount options for users to choose from.
Bow-mounted trolling motors mount to the front of the boat with a bolt-on bracket. They enable easy maneuverability and control thanks to the wide range of control options they are outfitted with.
Transom trolling motors on the other hand mount to the back of the boat using a clamp-on bracket. They are best suited for smaller boats, canoes, and dinghies. On top of that, they feature a hand/tilter control which makes them great for general positioning and standard trolling.
Another location where you can mount a trolling motor is on the engine. Engine-mounted trolling motors keep the deck clear. They also have the added benefit where no stowing or deploying is required.
Spot Lock Technology
Also, remember to evaluate the spot lock technology of the trolling motor you intend to buy. We recommend that you settle for a product with an accurate GPS and a reliable spot lock that can effectively hold the boat in place. This is irrespective of external factors such as wind and current.
FAQs
- Is Spot Lock beneficial to anglers?
Yes, it is. Spot Lock function is beneficial to anglers of all levels. It allows easy anchoring of the boat without the need to use traditional anchors. As a result, the angler can concentrate more on fishing rather than adjusting the boat constantly.
- Is Spot Lock compatible with all trolling motors?
No. Spot lock is not compatible with all trolling motors. It is found in certain motors from certain brands so check the product specification of the troll motor you intend to buy and see if it is included.
- Can I use a trolling motor with spot lock in saltwater?
Absolutely. Most trolling motors with spot lock are designed for both fresh and salty water applications. These motors have advanced protection from corrosion and fully encapsulated electronics ideal for use in oceans and brackish water.
Final Words
The key to having a successful fishing excursion is having the right tools and equipment at hand. All the trolling motors with spot lock we have mentioned above come with everything you need to turn your expeditions into a success. Look at the specifications that make each motor the right purchase, and use our guide to choose the model that will revolutionize the way you fish.
Recommended Read: 6 Best Trolling Motors