Have you had enough of paddling your Kayak around whilst on a fun fish trip?
Not only is this a tiring job, but it can prove to be technically demanding, and the extra commotion can scare off fish in the process. This problem is easily solved by installing an electric trolling motor for kayaks to do all the hard work for you.
The best trolling motors can be mounted on the back, front, or even on the side of your boat, and can quietly move you around without frightening the fish. Once you get the best trolling motor for kayaks installed, your fishing experience will be transformed, and you will wonder why you didn’t do it sooner?
So we decided to review seven of the best trolling motors for kayaks currently available. So let’s go through them and find the perfect one for you…
Top 7 Best Trolling Motor For Kayaks For The Money 2023 Reviews
1 Minn Kota Endura C2 55 Freshwater Transom Mount Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota Endura C2 55 lb thrust trolling motor is made for freshwater use on small to medium-sized boats. This transom mount motor is one of the more reasonably priced offerings out there right now. It packs a decent 55lbs of torque, giving you all the power you will need to move your kayak quietly around the water.
Made using special composite materials, it is definitely built to last resisting flexing, warping and UV damage. The shaft is available in two different lengths, 36 and 42 inches, so you can get the best ride for your boat. The shaft comes with a lifetime guarantee and is virtually indestructible, while the motor carries a 2-year warranty.
Take control…
In order to maintain the most control, this versatile motor comes with five forward speeds and three reverse.
The battery life is long and also comes with a digital meter, which tells you how much power is remaining. This should put a stop to accidentally getting stranded in the middle of a lake. The 6-inch telescopic tiller also provides easy, comfortable, and intuitive operation.
Fits right on…
It’s also remarkably easy to install, featuring a quick-release lever lock which provides a rock solid mount which won’t break, kink or corrode.
Overall this electric trolling motor offers fantastic performance for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Extremely durable.
- Long battery life.
- High-quality materials.
- Sturdy and comfortable handle.
- Nice 55lbs of thrust
- Very easy to mount
Cons
- For freshwater use only
- For heavier kayaks and when taking passengers, it could do with more power.
2 GOPLUS Electric Trolling Motor
This transom mount trolling motor from Goplus is available with a choice of three different pounds of thrust. At the lower end of the scale, you can get one with 46lbs of thrust, the mid-range offers 55lb, and the high-end one features 86lb of thrust. A big plus is that his model can be used for both fresh and saltwater trips.
The model you choose really depends on how you’re going to use it and the weight of your kayak. They all come with the same spec of impressive features, including a 6-inch adjustable handle that makes maneuverability a breeze.
So many choices…
The 46lb motor comes with a two blade propeller to help with navigation. The 55 and 86lb motors have a three blade propeller, which aids smooth movement, even when going through marsh or when weeds in the water.
The 36-inch shaft is very easy to control, and its composite fiberglass construction will mean a very long lifetime of trips. The five forward and three reverse speeds give you just the right amount of control for a stress-free ride. A 10 point LED battery indicator means day or night, you will be able to tell how much charge is remaining.
This kayak trolling motor is also exceptionally quiet, thereby increasing the chances of a good catch.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- A variety of thrust options.
- Durability.
- Cool and quiet motor.
- High-quality materials used.
- Easy to mount.
- Helpful battery life indicator.
- Can be used in fresh and saltwater
Cons
- After salt water use, it must be cleaned immediately with fresh water.
- Relatively heavy
3 Watersnake ASP T18 Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Watersnake ASP T18lb-SW Transom Mount Electric Motor is the smallest electric motor for kayaks we will feature. It’s designed especially for kayaks, small dinghies, canoes, and inflatable boats. It’s a lightweight motor offering the ultimate in portability with 18lb thrust and a 24″ (61cm) shaft.
The ASP T18-SW has an adjustable transom-mount fitting for easy attachment. There is a high and low speed control, a forward and reverse switch, and it features an anti-impact clip system in the mount. The two-blade propeller is capable of dealing with any algae and river weeds easily.
Goes the distance…
A lightweight, inexpensive, electric, saltwater motor that’s built to last. Anti-corrosive paint, as well as stainless steel external and internal parts allow you to take this motor into fresh, brackish, and saltwater without worry.
The lack of thrust at 18lbs means this kayak trolling motor has a limited speed and should only be used with smaller kayak designs for lighter people. Care must also be taken when fishing against the tide. It might not do so well in that regard, given its light weight.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Suitable for fresh and saltwater use.
- Weedless dual blade propeller
- A seamless speed control system
Cons
- Lack of thrust
- Doesn’t work well against stronger currents.
4 Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor
The Newport 55 saltwater trolling motor is designed for bigger kayaks. With a decent thrust of 55lbs, it is widely regarded as one of the best choices in the saltwater trolling motor category and is equally at home in freshwater.
The motor is powered by a 12 volt marine battery. This allows it to produce up to 7 knots worth of speed. This is ideal if you’re looking to get around quickly in a kayak or an inflatable pontoon boat. It features eight speeds (five forward, three reverse) and has a six-inch telescoping handle. This has an ergonomic control, which allows for an especially smooth ride.
All-day long…
It has a 5-LED battery meter, which will give a complete reading of the life of your 12V marine battery (not included). The 30-inch shaft is built of composite fiberglass, making it extremely durable. This allows for precise positioning in all depths and water conditions. The long battery life and quiet power will also allow you to fish all day long and not scare away the fish.
The tilt angle of the motor can be fully raised, which helps with cleaning and storage. And the composite materials used are corrosion resistant and built to last. Therefore, this electric trolling motor will withstand regular boating trips for years. It is also lightweight and portable.
A real front runner for best trolling motor for kayaks.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- Very powerful.
- Great for both fresh and saltwater.
- Very quiet and stays cool.
- Durability
- Quality materials and construction.
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- We struggled to find any!
5 Newport Vessels L-Series 62lb/86lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
If you’re planning on fishing in rough, windy or turbulent waters, then you’ll need as much thrust as you can get your hands on. The extra power this model provides, especially the 86lb version, really gets the job done. The 24-volt battery gives the endurance needed for those longer fishing trips.
The 40-inch fiberglass composite shaft is adjustable, providing the correct length for fishing in virtually any water conditions. The versatile mount means it can be easily attached to many types of mid-size boats, including larger kayaks.
No worries…
A 10 point LED battery meter comes as standard, giving you the confidence to fish without the worry of becoming stranded.
The 6-inch telescopic handle is ergonomically designed for maximum comfort. The five forward and three reverse speeds are at your fingertips, giving you a smooth and controlled ride. It’s also reasonably quiet considering the extra thrust available.
Rust-free…
Stainless steel hardware construction provides rust-free usage in both salt and freshwater environments.
This level of thrust is only really needed for the largest of vessels. This lack of versatility makes it an unlikely candidate for the title of the Best Trolling Motor for Kayaks.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- Extra power for tough conditions.
- Very competitive price.
- Durable and built to last.
- Exceptionally long and adjustable shaft.
- Easy to attach to your kayak
Cons
- Requires 24volts of battery power.
- The lowest speed setting is a little fast on lighter boats.
- Suitable for larger kayaks only
6 Newport Vessels NV-Series 36lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor
This electric motor for kayaks is the smallest of the Newport Vessels NV series, providing 36lbs of thrust from the 12volt battery (not included). This is enough power to maneuver your kayak in calm and slow moving waters but will seem lacking against strong tides or high seas.
And as with all other Newport models, the stainless steel exterior body ensures a long life-span for the motor in any type of water.
Naturally…
The composite shaft is also a little smaller, coming in at 30-inches. However, it’s still more than enough for most smaller kayak designs.
As per standard with Newport Vessels, this is an eight speed motor (five forward, three reverse), which comes with a telescopic 6-inch handle for direction control and a 5 point LED battery indicator. Due to the lower thrust level, battery life is extended beyond the range of Newport’s more powerful motors.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- One of the cheapest trolling motors for kayaks.
- Durable materials used in construction.
- Suitable for fresh and saltwater.
- Very quiet motor.
- Long battery life.
Cons
- Not suitable for rough conditions.
- Will struggle against strong tides with heavy loads.
7 Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Transom Mount Electric Trolling Motor
When talking about the best trolling motors for kayaks, this smaller motor is a good choice for lighter boats in calm, freshwater conditions. Its 30lbs of thrust provide enough power for kayaks under 16ft long. It has a cool and quiet motor ideal for not spooking your potential catch.
Like the other models reviewed, it has five forward and three reverse speeds, all controlled from a comfortably designed 6-inch telescopic tiller. The 30-inch composite shaft provides enough depth for any freshwater trips imaginable. It is also easy to install and is very energy efficient, giving you a long lasting battery life. This makes it great for extended freshwater fishing trips.
Lifetime warranty…
The strong lever lock bracket makes this trolling motor simple to install, offering a rock solid mount. The indestructible composite shaft features a lifetime warranty and there is a 2-year warranty on the motor itself,
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Outstanding battery life.
- Very quiet motor.
- High-quality materials used.
- Durable and UV resistant.
Cons
- Suitable for freshwater fishing only.
- Suitable for 12-16 foot kayaks only.
Best Trolling Motor for Kayaks Buyer’s Guide
What To Consider When Buying A Kayak Trolling Motor…
Having a good electric trolling motor makes the sport of fishing a lot more enjoyable. It will enable you to catch bigger fish and more of them, which is the aim of the game after all. Many people don’t realize how much difference a good trolling motor for their kayak can make to their fishing experience.
This buying guide will provide you with the information needed to determine which motor will perfectly match your requirements allowing you to buy the Best Trolling Motor for Kayaks.
So, let’s dive in…
Thrust
This is the amount of strength needed to propel your boat through the water and is measured in pounds. The most important factors to consider are the size and weight of your kayak.
When buying a trolling motor, it’s best to have the maximum thrust power that your fishing boat or kayak can handle. Choose a motor with the level of thrust that will best suit the kind of fishing you will be doing. Go for more power if you will be fishing off-shore in high seas and winds or against strong currents.
If you intend to go freshwater fishing on calm, placid water, then you can make do with lower levels of thrust.
Shaft Length
Shaft lengths on kayak trolling motors help to determine the level of control and the smoothness of the ride. A general rule of thumb is the longer the kayak, the longer the shaft needed.
Also, be aware that operating in shallow water with a long shaft is difficult. The same applies when using a short shaft in rough water. If possible, it’s best to buy a motor with an adjustable shaft length so you can make the necessary changes as and when.
Usage
What kind of fishing will you be using your electric trolling motor for? Freshwater, saltwater, or both? Saltwater motors are designed using corrosion resistant materials and are generally more expensive than freshwater motors. If you aren’t sure where you will be using your kayak most, then make sure you buy a motor that is suitable for both.
Battery Life
Most trolling motors for kayaks do not come with a battery, so make sure you purchase the battery that will give you the longest time on the water. And it’s always best to buy a battery with higher amp hours to increase trip length.
It’s easy to lose track of time when fishing, so make sure your trolling motor comes equipped with a battery life indicator, so you never forget to start for home.
Speeds
All the trolling motors in this review, apart from the Watersnake, have eight speeds: five forward and three reverse. As a buyer, you should look for a motor that operates efficiently on all forward and reverse speeds, especially if it’s going to be used against currents.
Weight
Weight is an important factor in a kayak trolling motor, and you’ll need to keep that in mind. With the battery, the mount, and the trolling motor, you’ll have to keep your kayak’s maximum load capacity in mind. You’ll also need to be sure that the stern still rides above the water. Consequently, lighter motors are usually a better choice for kayak fishing.
Control Type
Many trolling motors offer foot pedal controls, but these should be avoided when looking for a kayak motor. A tiller hand is the most popular and easy way to control your motor, offering less clutter on the boat and real-time response. All the Kayak trolling motors featured here are hand controlled with adjustable tillers.
So, What’s The Best Trolling Motor For Kayaks?
Well, it’s the…
Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor
And here’s why…
This versatile motor is specifically designed with kayaks in mind and is suitable for all sizes. It has enough thrust to propel even the largest models. At home in all freshwater and saltwater environments, this trolling motor gives you more options as your experience widens.
You get more bang-for-your-buck with the Newport Vessels 55lb’er. It’s significantly cheaper than other similarly powered options, yet comes with a range of features as good as, if not better than most of the other models we looked at.
The battery life, ease of use, durability, and the quiet and cool running of the motor all excel in this model.
For the beginner or experienced trolling kayaker, this little gem ticks all the boxes, adapting well to any situation you may find yourself in. Highly recommended!