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You are literally spoiled for choice when it comes to saltwater trolling motors on the market. Making the wrong decision, on the other hand, can make or mar your fishing trip. If your motor runs too loudly, your nets will be empty. You will be stranded if your engine does not produce enough thrust. You will not catch much fish if you use the incorrect shaft length.
Different vessels typically require different motors, each with a unique mount and set of properties. No guide can choose the best saltwater trolling motor for your needs in an instant, but we hope to point you in the proper direction so you can locate the best trolling saltwater motor for your boat. Here are our top recommendations.
Contents
Saltwater Trolling Motor Reviews 2022
1. Newport Vessels L-Series – Editor’s Choice
The Newport Vessels L-Series Trolling Motor is available in two versions; the 86 pound thrust model and the 62 pounds model. 86 Pounds can easily support vessels up to 16 ft in length, while 62 Pounds can support a vessel up to 12 ft in length. So you can choose between the two styles based on which you prefer. It is covered by a two-year warranty.
The motor is in perfect working order and produces no noise. This motor is a fully adjustable product that you can configure to suit your needs.
This product comes with a directional lock provided so that you can easily navigate the waters. This motor is also relatively quiet. The propeller and shaft are both made of Fiberglass, making them fairly lightweight and resistant to fluctuating moisture and temperatures. This product is also environmentally friendly. The brackets are tilt-able and adjustable.
A 10-point LED battery meter helps track how much time is left until the battery needs to be recharged. This trolling motor has a total of eight speeds – five forward and three reverse. This product is also less expensive than many other alternatives and does not put too much strain on your pocket. Asides from being constructed with fiberglass. This machine also has a corrosion-resistant coating, which means it to be used in both freshwater and saltwater. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- Three large blade propellers
- 40-inch fiberglass shaft
- 6 inches telescoping handle, and height adjustment feature
- 10-point LED battery meter
- The product is compatible with both saltwater and freshwater.
- Three propeller blades for smoother navigation.
- This product is affordable.
- The head of the motor and handle isn’t moisture-proof
- It is not that durable.
2. AQUOS Haswing – Most Convenien
The AQUOS Haswing Trolling Motor was created with elegance and comfort in mind. This versatile motor has a wireless remote and a foot pedal for easier control. This trolling motor is made of long-lasting stainless steel to provide top functionality. This saltwater trolling machine has a high thrust that delivers an outstanding performance.
The 55 pounds of thrust ensures the motor delivers high performance. The amount of thrust also reduces the risk of overheating. It allows for a smooth operation regardless of the size of the boat. Select your speed preference with the variable speed settings. You can simply adjust the speed and select the motor operation based on your needs.
This motor has a decibel level of 55, allowing for quiet operation. The motor is designed to withstand corrosion caused by seawater. As a result, you can use this one in both saltwater and freshwater. Its ability to operate in saltwater makes it ideal for you. This motor is also made of top-quality aluminum; Which ensures its strength durability and allows it to withstand the effects of saltwater. The propeller blade is made of three blades and engineered plastic. This provides a high level of shock resistance. This product distinguishes itself from other traditional motors due to its wireless control option, which is quite unique.
However, because of the shorter battery life, it may be inconvenient for some users. However, if you don’t mind charging it each day, you’ll be fine with this motor. You can also change the battery to a more powerful one. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- Wireless Control
- Thrust of 55 Pounds
- Variable speed
- Three Blade propeller
- Wireless control
- High-quality shaft material
- Compatible with both freshwater and saltwater
- Built with shock-resistant propellor
- Quiet operation
- Relatively short battery life
3. Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive – Most Powerful
Minn Kota Riptide is grit-blasted, aluminum-coated, and then powder-coated to help prevent rust and oxidization. Motors with Digital Maximizer are variable speed, as opposed to other five-speed models, which means you can dial at the appropriate pace. This trolling motor has a lot of cool features, such as the i-Pilot and co-pilot wireless remote.
This machine has only two thrust options: 55 pounds and 70 pounds thrust. All of these thrust options have a model that includes the i-Pilot, while other models include the co-pilot remote.
This is a highly durable trolling motor that can take on a significant workload. And like all of the other Riptide models, the Powerdrive also comes with the Minn Kota Saltwater advantage. And like most Minn Kota motors, the Riptide comes with the hardcore composite shaft, which a lot of anglers are looking for. With the 70 pounds models being a bit larger, the deploy-assist lever on the Powerdrive comes in handy. These models all use digital variable speed control that is easily navigated with the foot pedal. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- i-Pilot and co-pilot wireless remote
- Variable speed
- Digital Maximizer
- Corrosion Protection
- Excellent performance
- Quiet performance
- Waterproof
- Ease to operate with a responsive remote
- This trolling motor might be too complicated for more straightforward users
4. PEXMOR Saltwater Trolling Motor – Budget-Friendly
The long adjustable telescoping handle of the Pexmore electric trolling motor will instantly amaze you. Because adjustments are simple, you can choose the length you want. Moving through murky waters isn’t too difficult with the three sharp propellers. The sharp blades help cut seaweeds and open up a path for the boat to pass through.
Because of its one-of-a-kind design, this trolling motor is well worth your money. You’ll have this trolling motor for long thanks to its corrosion-resistant body.
The handle on the Pexmor trolling motor is long enough to allow you to comfortably select the appropriate length to work with. The grip is soft enough to allow for easy operation. Due to its variable speed settings, the handle also allows you to control the speed of the motor. This product has eight speeds available, and as a result, it is relatively simple to maintain.
This trolling motor has a one-of-a-kind design with a three-blade propeller. The propeller’s blades easily cut through seaweed, allowing for plain sailing through fresh water and saltwater. This machine also has LED lights that allow you closely monitor the battery’s capacity. If the battery is low, 1 to 3 red lights will illuminate. This signal means you’ll always be aware of the battery status.
The variable speed on the handle of this trolling motor makes it simple to use. By pressing the control button, you change the angle and depth of the shaft. As a result, you can modify it to wade through a variety of water conditions. This is the device for you if you need a convenient electric trolling motor that’s capable of cutting through seaweeds. This motor will have a few minor issues, but if you properly care for it, it will last a long time. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- Three-blade propeller
- Variable speed
- 10 LED light indicator
- Telescoping adjustable handle
- The motor is compatible with fresh water and saltwater.
- The three-blade propellers are sharp and sturdy, allowing for better navigation.
- The motor comes with a strong adjustable shaft to give better depth perception.
- The price is affordable
- This motor has a very sensitive throttle, which makes it a bit finicky.
5. Watersnake Venom – Most Versatile
For boating and fishing, you don’t need a trolling motor with very high thrust variations and a variety of attractive attachments. A trolling motor’s main features should essentially be a powerful motor, a decent thrust, and ease of use—the Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor ticks all the main boxes.
The Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor is highly compatible and simple to set up. This motor has a modern design that will complement the look of your boat. The simple and durable design provides you with a strong and powerful motor to meet all your fishing needs. The 55-pound thrust model is powerful enough to propel larger boats in both salt and fresh water. This is good saltwater trolling motor for all of your needs.
The Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor is well-built and designed. It has a reasonably sturdy build, and this keeps the motor in good working order and free of damage. The shaft of this machine is made of corrosion-resistant materials that keep the motor rust-free and can also be used in saltwater. Along with the sleek design, it includes a LED battery reader that provides a good indication of the motor’s battery status. This trolling motor has a fully adjustable telescopic handle for extra comfort and usage. The motor also has three stainless steel propellers that are sharp enough to cut seaweed and other plants, which allows a smoother sailing.
It provides excellent usage each day at various speeds, which can be handled via the telescopic handle, which has a proper grip to improve the user’s comfort. The Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor provides reasonably long-lasting and satisfying performance. The motor can also run for hours without heating up or stopping. As a result, this motor is an excellent choice for freshwater and saltwater fishing and boating.
This motor is ideal for fishing because it doesn’t heat up or make a lot of noise, which would otherwise alert fish. Furthermore, the motor has a decent speed and can go fast or slow depending on the speed adjusted via the telescopic handle. This machine works well with a 12V battery, which provides enough power to run all day. In general, this product performs impressively.
This product has a solid and stylish build quality. To properly function in saltwater, the model is made of an erosive-free material. It also has three stainless steel propellers to prevent seaweed from becoming entangled in the propellers. One significant disadvantage of this product is that the head of the motor isn’t waterproof, which means water can find its way into the motor if not properly maintained. To keep the motor safe, an extra cover is recommended. The Watersnake Venom Electric Trolling Motor has an adjustable handle and a comfortable grip, providing comfort while making adjustments to the speed and direction. Furthermore, when the charge is low, and the water is turbulent, the speed adjustments become slightly more complicated but other than that, the machine runs very smoothly. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- Corrosion-resistant material
- 55 pounds of thrust
- Extendable telescopic handle
- Three stainless steel propellers
- Three stainless steel propellers that help in cutting weeds for easier sailing.
- This motor can be used in freshwater and saltwater due to the materials used in constructing the shaft.
- This motor has a good battery life that can easily last throughout the day.
- It comes with a warranty.
- This trolling motor vibrates a lot at times when the battery is running low, with the motor running at high speed.
- The head of the motor isn’t water-resistant and needs extra cover.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Saltwater Trolling Motor
It Isn’t advised to just go out and buy the first saltwater trolling motor you come across. These machines are crafted for different purposes and for various types of vessels, so it is best to do some research before finally pulling the trigger and buying a saltwater trolling motor. Here are some things you should consider before purchasing the right saltwater trolling motor for your needs.
Corrosion Resistance
The primary distinction between freshwater and saltwater trolling motors is the material used in making them. Saltwater trolling motors are made of materials that resist corrosion caused by saltwater’s corrosive properties. Freshwater trolling motors may not have these corrosion-proof materials, which means your motor may not perform well in the ocean. Take this into consideration when selecting a trolling motor—saltwater trolling motors
Power/Thrust
Trolling motor thrust is measured in pounds. In general, about 75 pounds of thrust is equal to one horsepower. A typical 12V saltwater trolling motor that draws 60A uses approximately 720W of power. Trolling motors come in 12V, 12/24V, 24V, and 36V configurations, with the most powerful model offering more than 100 pounds of thrust. It has enough thrust to move large vessels such as pontoon boats.
Mounting
After you’ve decided where you’ll use your boat, you’ll need to decide where you’ll mount the motor. Some saltwater trolling motors are tailored to specific mounting positions, with one offering better performance than the other. The different mounting options are mentioned below.
The Bow
The bow of the boat is a common mounting spot. These motors are usually bolted on and have propellers that can propel the boat through the water. Some argue that bow-mounted motors offer greater control.
The Engine
These trolling motors are mounted on the cavitation plate that normally holds an outboard or inboard motor. The benefit of this location is that it keeps the boat’s deck clear and erases the need to stow or deploy the trolling motor.
A Transom
This is the stern of your boat. Trolling motors mounted on the transom are typically tethered with a clamp-on bracket and have hand-operated tiller controls. Mounting in this spot provides easy positioning and steering in a simple and efficient package.
Steering Type
Several anglers enjoy taking their time considering the different operation types available after determining what type of mount and power they require. Do you want a pedal that doesn’t require your hands? a conventional hand tiller? Or with a wireless remote?
Hand-Free Pedal
A foot pedal is used to control the majority of cable-operated devices. These pedals are used to control the cables which transmit commands to the motor. They usually have toe or heel control for power, as well as right and left steering functions. Foot pedal cable steering devices are ideal for boaters who prefer a hands-free experience.
Hand Tiller
A hand-operated tiller is the most common way to control a trolling motor. The majority of tiller controls feature a telescopic handle for easy, accurate steering and excellent maneuverability. They, however, need you to use your hands, which could be bothersome if you prefer to keep your hands on the fishing rod.
Remote Control
At the higher end of the price range, electronic steering is available. Wireless remote-control steering is the most rudimentary of these electronically controlled steering options, and it is typically operated through a touchscreen or handheld device. Other compatible devices use autopilot systems that use satellite technology to keep you over your favorite fishing spots. These alternatives, however, are usually costlier.
Features
A few trolling motors now have autopilot and route storage capabilities to assist you in navigating your most preferred fishing routes. Thanks to the Bluetooth functionality, you can control these features from your mobile phone or the device’s remote control. Trolling motors can be advanced in terms of technology. Here are a few advanced features available to those who truly want the best of the best.
GPS
For serious boaters, GPS devices are a must-have. They aren’t required for trips up the river, but having some sort of GPS functionality is a smart idea if you’re heading into deeper waters or the ocean. GPS devices can assist you in quickly locating your favorite fishing spots and directing you in the correct direction in case you get lost. Some GPS devices could even help you call for assistance in an emergency.
Autopilot
Autopilot and cruise control are really useful if you’re gearing up for a long trip. Not needing to concentrate solely on controlling the power and steering frees you up to do other stuff like monitoring the weather, organizing your gear, or just relaxing while on water. Many devices also have Spot-Lock features that lock the boat in place and use the motor to reposition the vessel if the sea current tries to pull the boat away.
Fish Finder Sonar
Fishfinders are like GPS systems in that they include underwater sonar. This equipment, which employs transducer attachments, can emit sonar pulses through the water, and this detects underwater fish and topography, providing you with a clear indication of what’s underneath the hull. Anglers rely on fishfinders as essential tools.
Compatibility & Connectivity
Some manufacturers offer complete compatibility across the majority of their product lines. A trolling motor, for example, could be linked to a fish finder. Some motors are capable of communicating with GPS systems, while others are capable of communicating with phone apps. These features are worth looking out for if you’re interested in technology and connectivity.
Portability
If you own multiple boats or prefer to use a rowing boat in one lake, a canoe for another, you might be better off buying a trolling motor that can be used in all three. Search for motors that are small and portable. This could save you a lot of money down the line.
FAQs
What size saltwater trolling motor do I need?
A trolling motor should provide approximately 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of boat weight. However, if you anticipate encountering gusty winds or currents, you will require more power. In such a case, it is necessary to add about 10 to 20 percent more thrust in order for the motor to perform adequately. However, boats with deeper draughts offer more resistance to water currents than boats with shallow draughts, requiring the use of a larger trolling motor. Furthermore, boats with a high deck height above water provide a fair bit of surface for the wind to push against, necessitating more thrust to deal with strong winds. As a result, the amount of thrust required for your particular situation may be greater than expected. If you're in doubt, an overpowered saltwater trolling motor is usually preferable to an underpowered one because it is easier to compensate for. When purchasing a saltwater trolling motor, keep the size of the boat in mind as this will help you find the best motor. If you know the size of the boat, you will be able to purchase the right motor accordingly. When you choose the best motor, you will be able to get the right value in your voyages.
How do you mount a saltwater trolling motor?
To begin, place the motor in the functioning position to determine where to mount the base pad on the bow. Then, mark and secure the plate that supports the mounting pad to the deck. Secure the motor in the quick-release pad and mark the location where the shaft will pass through the rail of the bow when deployed and stowed. Then, carefully measure and cut a piece of stainless steel tubing a size bigger in diameter than the bow rail to fill the gap with steel at least two inches of the initial railing on both sides of the gap. Drill quarter-inch holes for quick release ring pins, which are used to safeguard the sleeves in a closed position after centering the tube over the gap. Finally, slide over the sleeve to an open position, then drill one more hole to allow for better security with the pin when the motor is deployed. Insert quick-release pins in each position to make sure the holes line up, and the sleeve is secure in both. Place the motor on the pad and test the deploy-and-stow process. Attach quick-release pins into each position to ensure that the holes align and the sleeve is secure enough. Test the deploy-and-stow process by placing the motor on the pad.
How is a saltwater trolling motor different?
While saltwater trolling motors are constructed similarly to a freshwater model, it includes the following extra features to make them even more resilient to saltwater corrosion: Electrical components are completely sealed. Stainless steel parts Corrosion-resistant surface treatment These extra features, of course, make saltwater trolling motors costlier than freshwater motors. Minn Kota saltwater trolling motors, for example, are typically around $200 more costly than their freshwater equivalents. If you've ever gone saltwater fishing, you'll realize how corrosive saltwater can be to the electronic and metal components of the motor, making the extra cost of a saltwater trolling motor worth it, especially if you plan to use it frequently in the ocean.
Conclusion
There is no such thing as the perfect saltwater trolling motor that will meet everyone’s needs. What works perfectly for one angler in one type of boat may feel completely wrong to another. However, if you follow our advice, conduct additional research, and read other reviews, you will be able to find the best saltwater trolling motor to fit your needs.
