As a boat enthusiast, you might be looking for the best trolling motors for your pontoon boat. A trolling motor is an essential tool that enables you to maneuver your boat quietly and efficiently in the water. However, with so many trolling motors available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your pontoon boat.
To help you with your selection, here are five key points you should consider when looking for the best trolling motors for pontoon boats.
1. Thrust Power: The thrust power of a trolling motor determines its ability to move your pontoon boat through the water. It's essential to select a motor with sufficient thrust power to accommodate the weight of your boat and its passengers.
2. Shaft Length: The length of the trolling motor shaft determines how deep the propeller sits in the water. It's crucial to choose the right shaft length to ensure that the propeller is fully submerged in the water for optimal performance.
3. Battery Life: The battery life of a trolling motor depends on the motor's power, the battery's capacity, and the speed at which you operate the motor. It's important to select a motor with a long battery life to avoid running out of power in the middle of your fishing trip.
4. Control Type: Trolling motors come with different control types, including foot pedals, hand-held remotes, and wireless options. It's important to choose a control type that is comfortable and easy for you to use.
5. Brand Reputation: Finally, it's essential to choose a trolling motor from a reputable brand that offers quality products and excellent customer service. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other boat owners can help you make an informed decision.
In summary, when looking for the best trolling motors for pontoon boats, consider the motor's thrust power, shaft length, battery life, control type, and brand reputation. By keeping these key points in mind, you can select a trolling motor that meets your needs and enhances your boating experience.
10 Best Trolling Motors For Pontoon Boats
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1. Minn Kota Pontoon Electric Trolling Motor – 70 Lbs Thrust, 48" Shaft, Digital Maximizer & Powerdrive Foot Control.
The Minn Kota 1358729 Pontoon Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is a powerful and efficient tool for fishing enthusiasts. With a 48" shaft, 24v, and 70 lbs thrust, this trolling motor is designed to help anglers navigate through the water with ease.
One of the standout features of this trolling motor is the Deploy-Assist Lever. With just a simple depression of the lever, the PowerDrive is deployed smoothly and securely. This makes getting in and out of the water a breeze, saving valuable time and effort.
Another notable feature of the Minn Kota 1358729 is the PowerDrive Foot Pedal. This waterproof pedal allows for complete control over speed, steering, and momentary and constant on/off functions. With an 18' cord, anglers have plenty of room to move around and adjust the motor as needed. It's important to note that this feature is not included on models with i-Pilot.
The Digital Maximizer is another key component of this trolling motor. It provides up to five times longer run time on a single battery charge, making it a reliable option for long days on the water. The variable speed settings allow for precise control over the motor's power output, conserving battery life and ensuring a full day of fishing.
For those dealing with heavy vegetation, the Power Prop delivers extra power to push through even the thickest of growth. This prop comes complete with a prop pin, nut, and washer for easy installation.
Overall, the Minn Kota 1358729 Pontoon Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is a durable and high-performance tool for anglers of all skill levels. Its advanced features and efficient design make it a top choice for those looking to maximize their time on the water.
2. Minn Kota Powerdrive Electric-Steer Trolling Motor, 55 Lbs Thrust, 54" Shaft, Black.
The Minn Kota 1358737 PowerDrive Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is an essential tool for any fishing enthusiast. This motor features a 54" shaft and 55 lbs thrust, making it a powerful and reliable addition to any watercraft.
One of the biggest concerns for anglers is getting in and out of the water with ease. The PowerDrive Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor offers a Deploy-Assist Lever that allows for easy deployment and stowing of the motor. This feature saves time and effort, allowing anglers to focus on what they do best – fishing.
The Side-To-Side/Electric Foot Pedal is another notable feature of this trolling motor. The pedal is waterproof and has an 18' cord, providing greater control over the speed, steering, and on/off functions of the motor. One thing to note is that the foot pedal is not included with i-Pilot models.
The Digital Maximizer feature is another game-changer for anglers. It provides up to 5 times longer run time on a single battery charge, conserving energy and allowing for a full day of fishing without worrying about battery life. Additionally, the variable speed trolling motor allows anglers to dial in their exact speed, delivering only as much power as needed, further conserving battery life.
One of the biggest challenges of fishing is dealing with weeds and other debris in the water. The Weedless Wedge 2 Prop is specifically designed with swept-back flared blades to power through any obstacles without battery-draining chopping and hacking. This feature makes it one of the most trusted props in fishing.
Overall, the Minn Kota 1358737 PowerDrive Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor is a reliable and powerful tool for any angler. Its features, including the Deploy-Assist Lever, Side-To-Side/Electric Foot Pedal, Digital Maximizer, and Weedless Wedge 2 Prop, make it stand out from the competition.
3. Motorguide Bow Mount Trolling Motor For Pontoon Boats With 48-Inch Shaft, 54-Pound Peak Thrust, And Wireless Control.
The MotorGuide 940700210 Xi3 Wireless Freshwater Bow Mount Pontoon Trolling Motor is a high-quality motor designed for use on pontoon boats. It boasts a number of innovative features that make it stand out from the competition.
One of the most notable features of this motor is its wireless remote control, which allows users to precisely operate the motor from anywhere on the boat. This feature is particularly useful for anglers who need to adjust the speed or direction of the motor while fishing.
Another key feature of the MotorGuide 940700210 Xi3 is its innovative mount, which features an easy-to-read LED dashboard that allows users to quickly check the status of four key functions in any light conditions. This feature makes it easy to monitor the motor's performance and ensure that it is operating at peak efficiency.
The MotorGuide 940700210 Xi3 is also incredibly quiet, with best-in-class operation that is up to 40 percent quieter than the leading competitor. This makes it an ideal choice for anglers who want to avoid spooking fish with loud motor noise.
The motor also features a SecureStep system that allows users to stow and deploy the motor safely and easily by stepping on the release lever from a comfortable standing position. This feature makes it easy to quickly and safely deploy the motor when needed.
In terms of performance, the MotorGuide 940700210 Xi3 delivers 54 pounds of peak thrust and has a 48-inch-long composite shaft with a 3-blade Machete propeller. This freshwater motor is designed for use in a variety of conditions and can handle the demands of even the most avid anglers.
Overall, the MotorGuide 940700210 Xi3 Wireless Freshwater Bow Mount Pontoon Trolling Motor is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a high-quality trolling motor for their pontoon boat. With its innovative features and top-notch performance, it is sure to provide years of reliable service for anglers of all skill levels.
4. Newport Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor – 55lb Thrust, Deck Mount, 55" Shaft.
The Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor is a high-quality, reliable trolling motor designed specifically for pontoon boats. With its powerful 55lb thrust and 55-inch long fiberglass shaft, this trolling motor is perfect for navigating through saltwater environments with ease.
One of the key features of this trolling motor is its durable deck mount bracket, which is specifically designed to be used with pontoon boats. This bracket is made from high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring that the motor remains securely mounted even in rough waters.
In addition to its deck mount bracket, the Newport Pontoon-Series Trolling Motor also comes equipped with 66-inch battery cable leads that are pre-wired with ring connectors. This makes it easy to connect the motor to your boat's battery, and ensures that the motor is always powered up and ready to go when you need it.
To further enhance its reliability and safety, the Newport Pontoon-Series Trolling Motor also comes with a 50 amp circuit breaker. This breaker is designed to protect the motor from electrical overload, and will automatically shut off the motor if it detects any abnormal levels of current.
Overall, the Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor is an excellent choice for any boater looking for a high-quality, reliable trolling motor that can handle the unique demands of saltwater environments. With its powerful thrust, durable construction, and easy-to-use design, this trolling motor is sure to provide years of reliable performance for any pontoon boat.
5. 11.5ft Inflatable Pontoon Boat With Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Guard, Folding Seat, And 12v 55lbs Transom Trolling Motor For Fishing.
The AQUOS Heavy-Duty for Two 11.5ft Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Stainless Steel Guard and Folding Seat and Haswing Handle Control 12V 55LBS Transom Trolling Motor for Fishing is a portable and versatile option for anglers who want to access different fishing spots with ease. This pontoon boat weighs 91 lbs and can be separated into several components for easy transportation in a car, RV, or larger boat.
The boat features a stainless steel grab bar that provides extra stability and safety, and a swivel seat that can be adjusted between 9.6" and 13" for added comfort during long boat rides. With a maximum weight capacity of 800 lbs and an aluminum floor board size of 39*85 inches, this inflatable pontoon boat can meet different requirements.
The AQUOS pontoon boat comes with a few simple additions that can turn it into a unique and fisherman-friendly angling platform. The newly added EVA anti-skid pad not only prevents slip and fall hazards but also provides excellent resistance to cold and heat, making it perfect for long hours of fishing. The EVA anti-skid pad can be easily stuck according to the user's fishing habits.
The Haswing Hand Control 12V 55LBS Trolling Motor is another great feature of this pontoon boat. It can be used in both saltwater and freshwater and is equipped with 5 forward and 3 reverse positions, 5 levels of battery power, and weighs only 19 lbs, making it easily portable and compact. The motor's depth height can easily be adjusted, and the steering lever adjusts to different angles, making it comfortable to control.
The AQUOS New Fishing Bag is made of 1680D coated waterproof Oxford fabric material with reflective stripes on the back, increasing safety at night. It has two storage spaces for fishing rods on the front and two on the back, a bottle pocket, three tool pockets, stainless steel hanging rings, and a bait bag with two detachable and cleanable lamb wool pieces. The bag is convenient for carrying more fishing bait and quickly replacing the bait during fishing.
The AQUOS side storage bag is also made of 1680D coated waterproof Oxford fabric and features quick-release buckles for added convenience. It has reflective stripes on the back, increasing safety at night, and a storage bag that can easily hold clothes, electronic equipment, and other items with a waterproof zipper design.
Overall, the AQUOS Heavy-Duty for Two 11.5ft Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Stainless Steel Guard and Folding Seat and Haswing Handle Control 12V 55LBS Transom Trolling Motor for Fishing is a great option for anglers who want a portable, versatile, and comfortable fishing platform. Its many features make it a great choice for fishing trips in different locations.
6. Newport Nv-Series 55lb Saltwater Trolling Motor With Led Battery Indicator And 30" Shaft.
The Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor is a top-of-the-line product designed for boaters who require excellent power and efficiency. This 12V electric trolling motor is built with high-quality materials that allow it to run all day long without overheating or making noise, ensuring that fish are not spooked.
One of the key features of this motor is the 55lb thrust, which provides ample power to propel boats through the water. The motor also features a 30-inch shaft, a 5 LED battery meter, a 6-inch telescoping tiller handle, and a 3-blade propeller. The mount angle, height, and direction can all be adjusted and locked into place as needed.
This motor has 8 speeds, with 5 forward and 3 reverse options available. While the top speed of this motor is around 4mph, the actual speed achieved will depend on factors such as boat shape, weight, water, wind, and other conditions. The 3-blade propeller gives the motor great low-end torque to get the boat moving.
The Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor requires one (1) 12V lead-acid deep cycle or lithium deep cycle battery (battery not included). A 50Ah battery is recommended for optimal performance. The motor also includes a 50Amp circuit breaker, which is recommended at all times to protect from battery voltage surges. The max amp draw of the motor is 52A.
Overall, the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor is an efficient and reliable option for boaters who require excellent power and efficiency. With its range of features and adjustability options, this motor is sure to help boaters achieve their goals on the water.
7. Minn Kota Powerdrive Electric-Steer Trolling Motor – 70 Lbs Thrust, 60" Shaft.
The Minn Kota 1358733 PowerDrive Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor with Digital Maximizer, 70 lbs Thrust, 60" Shaft is a high-quality trolling motor designed for freshwater use. With a 60" shaft, 24v power, and 70 lbs of thrust, this motor is powerful enough to tackle even the toughest fishing conditions.
One of the standout features of this trolling motor is the Deploy-Assist Lever, which allows for easy deployment and stowing of the motor. Simply depress the lever to deploy the motor into the water, and when it's time to move, stow it securely and quickly. This feature makes it easy for anglers to focus on fishing rather than struggling with their trolling motor.
Another useful feature of the Minn Kota 1358733 is the Side-To-Side/Electric Foot Pedal. This waterproof pedal allows for complete control over speed, steering, and on/off functions. Note that the foot pedal is not included with i-Pilot models.
The Weedless Wedge 2 Prop is another standout feature of this trolling motor. With swept-back flared blades, this prop can power through anything without draining the battery or requiring chopping and hacking. This prop is a trusted choice for anglers who want to get the most out of their trolling motor.
Finally, the Minn Kota 1358733 comes with a 2 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty, giving anglers peace of mind that they're making a solid investment in their fishing gear.
Overall, the Minn Kota 1358733 PowerDrive Freshwater Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Trolling Motor with Digital Maximizer, 70 lbs Thrust, 60" Shaft is an excellent choice for anglers who want a reliable, powerful trolling motor that can tackle any fishing conditions. With its easy deployment, complete control, and trusted prop design, this trolling motor is sure to be a favorite among serious fishermen.
8. 12v 55lbs Electric Transom Trolling Motor With Remote And Foot Control For Fishing/bass/inflatable Boats.
The AQUOS Haswing Cayman T 12V 55LBS 39 inch Electric Transom Trolling Motor is an ideal choice for serious fishermen who require a versatile, easy-to-operate, and reliable trolling motor. This motor comes equipped with both a hand remote and a wired foot control pedal, making it an ideal choice for those who want a range of options for controlling their motor.
One-way stepless speed control allows for precise adjustments to the motor's speed, while the depth height can be easily adjusted to accommodate a variety of water conditions, making it suitable for both salt and fresh water. This motor is also equipped with an LED battery meter that displays three levels of battery power, ensuring that you always know how much power you have left.
The remote control is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, and can also be attached around your neck with a lanyard, making it easy to access and use. With a range of up to 164 feet, this remote allows you to control the motor from either the boat or shore-side, providing you with the flexibility to fish wherever you want. The remote can also be recharged with a USB cable on power bank when necessary, ensuring that it is always ready to use.
The wired foot control pedal is 14.7 feet long, providing you with the freedom to move around your boat while still maintaining precise control over your motor. This feature is particularly useful when fishing, as it allows you to release your hands while still maintaining control over the motor.
Finally, the Haswing Cayman T 12V 55LBS Trolling Motor offers a 0-85 degree tilting position, which can be adjusted to meet your specific requirements. Whether you are fishing in shallow or deep water, this motor can be easily adjusted to ensure that you are always able to fish comfortably and effectively.
Overall, the AQUOS Haswing Cayman T 12V 55LBS 39 inch Electric Transom Trolling Motor is an excellent choice for serious fishermen who want a versatile, reliable, and easy-to-use trolling motor. With its range of features and capabilities, this motor is sure to provide you with years of trouble-free performance on the water.
9. 12v 55ah Power Boat Pontoon Electric Trolling Motor Deep Cycle Battery
The 12V 55Ah Power Boat Pontoon Electric Trolling Motor Deep Cycle Battery is a reliable and high-performance battery designed for use in a variety of applications. Manufactured by Universal Power Group, this rechargeable maintenance-free sealed lead acid battery is UL certified and offers excellent performance, durability, and convenience.
With dimensions of 9.06 inches x 5.43 inches x 8.98 inches, the ML55-12 SLA battery is compact and easy to install. It comes with screws for easy mounting, but no wire harness or mounting accessories are included in the package.
The SLA / AGM spill-proof battery is specially designed to provide a high discharge rate, wide operating temperatures, long service life, and deep discharge recovery. It is a versatile battery that can be mounted in any position and is resistant to shocks and vibration.
Whether you use it for your power boat, pontoon, electric trolling motor, or any other application, this battery delivers long-lasting high performance in both high and low temperatures. It is a reliable power source that can meet your needs for extended periods without the need for frequent recharging.
Universal Power Group backs this battery with a 30-day refund policy and a full 1-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and assurance of its quality and reliability. This battery is an excellent investment for anyone who needs a dependable and high-performance power source for their marine or other applications.
10. Motorguide Xi3 Freshwater Trolling Motor, Wireless, Bow Mount – 48-Inch Shaft, 55-Pound Peak Thrust
The MotorGuide Xi3 Freshwater Trolling Motor is a top-of-the-line option for avid anglers seeking a reliable and efficient motor for their fishing boat. With wireless remote control, you can easily operate the motor from anywhere on the boat, allowing for precise movement and control. The innovative mount features an easy-to-read LED dashboard that lets you quickly check the status of four key functions in any light conditions.
One of the standout features of the MotorGuide Xi3 is its best-in-class quiet operation, which is up to 40 percent quieter than the leading competitor. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to maintain a peaceful and serene fishing experience without any loud motor noises to disrupt the tranquility.
The SecureStep system is another feature that sets the MotorGuide Xi3 apart from other trolling motors. This system allows you to safely and easily stow and deploy the motor by stepping on the release lever from a comfortable standing position. This makes it much more convenient and manageable to use, especially when you're on your own.
The freshwater motor delivers 55 pounds of peak thrust, making it a powerful option for navigating through various water conditions. It has a 48-inch-long composite shaft with a 3-blade Machete propeller, which makes for efficient and smooth operation. This 12-volt motor has a maximum draw of 52 amps, ensuring that it's powerful enough to get the job done.
Overall, the MotorGuide Xi3 Freshwater Trolling Motor is an excellent choice for anglers looking for a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use motor for their fishing boat. With its wireless remote control, innovative mount, quiet operation, and secure stow and deploy system, it's a top-of-the-line option that's sure to enhance any fishing experience.
Best Trolling Motors For Pontoon Boats FAQs
Are there any specific mounting requirements for trolling motors on pontoon boats?
There are no specific mounting requirements for trolling motors on pontoon boats. However, it is recommended to mount the trolling motor on the bow of the boat to provide better control and maneuverability. The mounting bracket should be securely attached to the deck using stainless steel bolts and screws. The motor shaft should be long enough to reach the waterline and have enough clearance to avoid hitting the boat's transom. Additionally, it is recommended to use a battery with sufficient power capacity and to position it close to the motor to minimize power loss. It is also important to ensure that the motor's propeller is not obstructed by any debris or obstacles in the water to avoid damage or reduced performance.
How much thrust is needed for a trolling motor on a pontoon boat?
The amount of thrust needed for a trolling motor on a pontoon boat depends on various factors such as the size and weight of the boat, the wind and water conditions, and the desired speed. As a general rule of thumb, a pontoon boat with a weight of 1,000 pounds will require a minimum of 55 pounds of thrust to move at a reasonable speed. However, if the boat is larger and heavier, a higher thrust rating will be needed. It is recommended to choose a trolling motor with a thrust rating of at least 2 pounds for every 100 pounds of boat weight. Additionally, it is important to consider the battery power and voltage needed to support the motor's thrust. A higher voltage battery will provide more power and longer run time for the trolling motor. Overall, it is advisable to consult with a professional to determine the appropriate thrust for a trolling motor on a pontoon boat.
What are the best brands of trolling motors for pontoon boats?
There are several top brands of trolling motors for pontoon boats, including Minn Kota, MotorGuide, and Newport Vessels. Minn Kota is a highly respected brand, offering a range of models with advanced features such as GPS and Bluetooth connectivity. MotorGuide is another popular option that offers models with high thrust power and digital displays. Newport Vessels is a newer player in the market, but their motors are known for their affordability and durability. When choosing a trolling motor for your pontoon boat, it's important to consider factors such as thrust power, battery life, and control options. Look for models with variable speed control and a quiet operation, as these can make a big difference in your fishing experience. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
What are the top features to look for in the best trolling motors for pontoon boats?
The top features to look for in the best trolling motors for pontoon boats include thrust power, shaft length, control options, battery efficiency, and durability. Thrust power is important in ensuring that the motor can propel the boat through different water conditions, while shaft length should be determined by the size of the pontoon boat. Control options such as speed and direction should be easy to use and accessible. Battery efficiency should be considered to ensure that the motor can run for a long time without draining the battery. Finally, durability is crucial in ensuring that the trolling motor can withstand different weather conditions and last for a long time. Overall, the best trolling motors for pontoon boats should be powerful, efficient, easy to control, and built to last.
What is the average lifespan of a trolling motor for a pontoon boat?
Some of the maintenance tips that can help in prolonging the life of a trolling motor include regular cleaning, lubrication, and timely replacement of worn-out parts. Additionally, it is important to store the trolling motor in a dry and secure location when not in use.
Factors such as water conditions, frequency of use, and exposure to saltwater can also affect the lifespan of a trolling motor. For instance, a trolling motor used in saltwater conditions may wear out faster than one used in freshwater.
In summary, the lifespan of a trolling motor for a pontoon boat can vary depending on several factors. With proper maintenance and care, a trolling motor can last for many years.