Best Trolling Motor Batteries in 2024 for Seasoned Anglers

My father loved fishing so much that he had to troll around numerous waterways in the vicinity of South Carolina. My brother and I often hopped on to his boat on the weekends. I remember one day we were cruising across the Wateree River and the battery died on us in the middle of the journey.

Luckily, dad had one of the best trolling motor batteries as a replacement on board that day which literally saved us from getting carried away by the current.

Fishing in the water with your boat or kayak can be more fun with a trolling motor but the battery can serve you the much-needed confidence while being on the water. Whether you’re relaxing or angling, a good trolling battery will give you an edge.

Advanced battery cell technologies have resulted in incredibly powerful batteries and tons of research is underway to bring about even more improvements in the size and capacity of these tiny powerhouses. You get hugely improved trolling motor batteries today than you could only dream of just five years back. The technology is evolving really fast.

Our team keeps track of the latest developments in this field and in this article, we’ll be reviewing the ultimate trolling motor batteries for your needs. Make sure you carefully go through each product review before making your final buying decision.

Our Top 10 Picks on Trolling Motor Batteries Reviewed

01 Universal Power Group AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery (Editor’s Choice)

After researching the features for each trolling motor battery, we found the Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM battery containing the most high-end features yet it was offered at an amazing price point. It surpassed other 12V battery  models on the ground of sophistication, performance and price. Let’s dig a little deeper.

It comes with an Ah rating of 100Ah. This means you can spend more time in the water without needing to recharge. Its huge Ampere Hour rating might be the reason for its big size and weight. This model measures 16.4 x 12.8 x 12.6 inches and weighs 60 pounds. Connecting two of these batteries in series will give you 24V to power your bike and other appliances.

Another thing you should know is that this battery is maintenance-free. This means you won’t spend money and time to add distilled water to it. Also, the encasement is spill-proof, meaning you can install it in any position. This battery is sturdy as it’s made to withstand shock and vibration. Thanks to its hard and durable plastic case.

It is important to charge the battery correctly to prolong its life. The huge weight of Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM battery makes it unsuitable for small kayaks or Jon boats. Also, it has a low Cold Cranking Amps which makes it unsafe for use in cars.

Specifications

Pros

• Provides consistent power
• Lasts long per charge
• Can be used for solar inverters and wind turbines
• Can withstand shock and vibrations
• Does not leak
• Does not need any maintenance

Cons

• It is huge and heavy

Our Verdict

The Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM battery is an excellent product to use in powering your trolling motors. It is free of maintenance needs and can withstand heavy vibrations. This model is completely sealed so that the liquid battery doesn’t spill.

It has a good Amp hour rating and supplies consistent power for long. So, if you’re interested in a deep cycle battery for trolling motor types, this is your choice.

02 Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M (Dual Purpose Pick)

Optima is one of the world’s leading producers of trolling motor batteries. The 8016-103 D34M Blue Top is one of the best in its series. From our research, we saw that Optima would give specific colors to its batteries. This is to show their purpose, function, and mode of application. Here, this model comes with a blue top and a light gray case which shows it’s a dual-purpose battery.

The 8016-103 D34M Blue Top is ideal for starting and deep cycling. You can use it as a battery for trolling motors and in campsites. This is also an indication for its versatility. Its Ampere hour rating is 55Ah which can last a bit longer in the water.

As a starting battery, the 8016-103 D34M Blue Top comes with a Cold Cranking Amps of 870A and output Voltage of 12V. This means it can crank your engine to start and keep it running for long. Also, it comes with a Reserve Capacity of 120 minutes which is a mark of its high-quality performance.

The Optima 8016-103 D34M Blue Top is an AGM battery meaning it’s long-lasting and doesn’t need any maintenance. Besides, it has a casing that is sturdy enough to withstand shock and vibrations. Yet, the spill-proof casing allows you to mount it in any position. It weighs 43.5 pounds with dimensions 10 x 6 7/8 x 7 13/6 inches, it has the perfect size for trolling motors.

It is important to use the recommended charger from the manufacturer to avoid damaging the battery.

Specifications

Pros

• Can start a motor even in bad weather
• Can perform well as a boat and RV battery
• Maintenance-free
• Leakage proof
• You can mount it in any position
• Resistant to shock and vibration

Cons

• Most users complain about facing some issues with charging

Our Verdict

The Optima 8016-103 D34M Blue Top is a household name when it comes to trolling motor batteries. It charges fast and supplies consistent power for long. It can start an engine in locations where the weather is unfriendly. No wonder why it’s one of the best-rated models out there. So, if you’re looking for a marine battery, you can’t really go wrong with this one.

03 Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 -12V 35Ah UI (Budget Choice)

The Mighty Max ML35-12 is the most affordable trolling motor battery on this list. It comes with many positive features that is uncommon among products in its price range. First, it’s sealed making it free of spills and maintenance. So, at a cheap price, you’ll get a rechargeable battery that is corrosion free and able to perform.

The Mighty Max ML35-12 features a size of 7.68 x 5.16 7.13 inches making it one of the smallest deep cycle battery models for sale. Also, it weighs 23.15 pounds making it perfect for small kayaks, pontoons and other boats.

It can function in any temperature while maintaining a long-lasting performance. It has a high discharge rate and can recover fast from discharge. As an AGM battery, the Mighty Max ML35-12 can be kept in any position in the boat. Besides, it has a rock sturdy body that keeps it in shape despite repeated shocks and vibrations.

This model is so versatile you can use it for emergency lighting, solar, security, access control devices, and much more. The only negative in this model is its relatively low Ampere hour rating making it unsuitable for spending long hours in the water. It comes with a 1-year warranty.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Compact design makes it suitable for small boats
• Easy to install
• Mount it in any position
• Affordable
• Doesn’t need a special charger

Cons

• It may not hold up for long hours in the sea

Our Verdict

The Mighty Max ML35-12 is the best budget trolling motor battery to buy. If you plan to try a cheap trolling motor battery and get the most out of it, this one is for you. It has a compact design making it the ideal option for small boats, tracker boats, and kayaks.

It is versatile and leakage-proof. It’s also one of the lightest models on our list. So, if you desire to buy a budget-friendly trolling motor battery with high-quality performance, you can’t go wrong with this one.

04 Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah

If you’re looking for a battery that you’ll use for other projects besides running your trolling motor, this model is for you. The Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah is an upgrade to the Mighty Max ML35-12 with slight modifications in its dimensions, weight, and amp draw. It is an AGM battery which means it doesn’t spill nor need maintenance. Also, it is sealed making its installation and mounting easier.

One of the features that we like in this top trolling motor battery is its ability to power many devices. You can use it in electric vehicles, electronic gadgets, engine starters, golf carts, medical mobility, solar, emergency lighting, motorcycles, power sports, portable tools, and much more.

The Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah weighs 38.58 pounds with dimensions 9.02 x 5.43 x 9.13 inches. It is compact enough for use in small and medium-sized boats. With an amperage rating of 55Ah, you can expect exceptional performance and long service life.

Draining the battery completely will hurt its life. It’s one of the reasons many users claim it’ll take a while before it begins to charge. Yet, it can function in diverse temperatures and environments. It is also backed by Might Max warranty.

Specifications

Pros

• Long lasting
• Durable and versatile
• Can withstand shock and vibration
• Conveniently portable
• Can operate at any temperature

Cons

• It takes time to recharge

Our Verdict

The Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah is the most versatile trolling motor battery on the market. It is powerful and stays active in harsh temperature conditions. This model is easy to mount and can withstand shock and vibrations. It is maintenance-free and cost-effective.

Its weight and Amperage are its greatest assets. This means you can use it in many situations. Also, it can fit both small kayaks and big boats.

05 VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 Volt 35Ah AGM Battery

The VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 is one of the few well-made batteries for trolling motors to buy. Its greatest advantage is the unique chemical structure of its plates. These plates undergo special treatments when manufacturing. This helps to boost their reliability and performance.

The VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 AGM battery is free of leakage and contaminants. Still, it doesn’t need any maintenance operation like checking the acidity of the electrolyte or adding water.

This product weighs 25 pounds with dimensions 7.7 x 5 x 6.1 inches. It’s more suitable for sport kayaks and small boats. Its amperage is 35Ah which is not bad for a trolling battery at this price and size. It can last for 3 to 4 hours when using it as the main power source in a Minn Kota 40 pounds trolling motor.

The VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 comes with a lot of power in a small pack. When using it on a trolling motor, it’ll last longer than a wet-cell battery of the same size. It can withstand frequent charging and discharging thus has an extended trolling motor battery life.

Yet, it’s important to use only the manufacturer’s recommended charger to prolong its life. If you intend to buy a lightweight trolling motor battery for kayaking, this product is for you.

Specifications

Pros

• Longer run-time and lasting lifespan
• Can handle frequent charging and discharging
• Doesn’t take long to recharge
• Compact and portable
• Suitable for small kayaks

Cons

• You can only use the recommended charger

Our Verdict

Many things make the VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 battery the favorite choice among anglers. It comes in a small pack yet powerful enough to keep a trolling motor running for long. It can recover quickly following a complete discharge.

Other VMAXTANKS models that might interest you: VPG12C-40LFP Lithium LIFEPO4

06 VMAX MR127 12 Volt 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

From our research, we would always recommend this product to any angler or hobbyist who is looking for a trolling motor battery to buy. The VMAX MR127 comes with surprising features that meet the needs of its users.

Although it has the power of a starting battery, it can only function as a deep cycle battery. So, with 100Ah, you wouldn’t worry about recharging anytime you’re in the sea. It can handle almost any type of trolling motor with a capacity up to 55 lb. continuous thrust.

The VMAX MR127 is designed to give you an amazing performance. The electrolyte is free of silica and other contaminants that may reduce the life of the battery.

Since it comes with an amperage of 100Ah, you can guess what the size and weight would be. This model weighs 68 pounds with measurements 12.1 x 6.7 x 8.2 inches. If your boat can handle the weight, then you’re good to go.

Still, this model is maintenance-free meaning you’ll not add distilled water to the liquid acid. Besides, it’s sealed, so it’s leakage-proof making it easy to install and position.

Specifications

Pros

• Can last long on water
• Sturdy and durable
• Easy to mount
• Can withstand frequent discharge and recharge
• Quick to recover from dead discharge

Cons

• It is big and very heavy

Our Verdict

This is a perfect choice for heavy-duty applications. It can keep you going for many hours in the water. It often recovers quickly from prolonged discharge. It is very durable even with repeated charging and discharging.

It is sealed and has a 10-year lifespan. So, if you need a trolling motor battery that will stand the test of time, this product is for you.

07 Mighty Max 12V 35Ah Sevylor Minn Kota Battery

This Light Trolling Motor Battery from Mighty Max is only for deep cycling. It delivers high-quality performance and charges at a very fast rate. It can withstand shocks and vibrations thanks to its thick plastic body.

This rechargeable and maintenance-free battery weighs 23.15 pounds and dimensions 7.68 x 5.16 x 7.13 inches. Thus, it’s one of the smallest deep cycle batteries for use in the boat. It comes with an amperage rating of 35Ah which can hold a charge for a while.

It can power a 40-pound thrust Minn Kota for 3 to 4 hours and still have more as a reserve. Besides, you can connect it in series to get 24V for powering an 80-pound thrust motor.

This model can function in both high and low temperatures. It is maintenance-free which makes it more cost-effective than the traditional wet-cell battery. Since it is sealed, you can mount it on any position without spilling the contents. Besides, this battery features a tough plastic casing that is resistant to shock and vibration.

Like other models in its production line, it can be used for both trolling motors and camping lights. Its small construction makes it perfect for hunting, emergency lights, garden tools, and more. It comes with a 1-year warranty.

Specifications

Pros

• Reliable and durable
• Suitable for light-duty applications
• Suitable for sport anglers
• Versatile
• Doesn’t spill or corrode
• Easy to mount and handle

Cons

• It is only suitable for small trolling motors

Our Verdict

This product from Mighty Max charges fast and gives a powerful and reliable performance. The exterior is hard making it able to resist vibrations that may damage the cells. It is light and portable making it ideal for small kayaks. You can use Minn Kotas’s on-board digital Marine battery charger to recharge it. Overall, it is good value for the money.

08 Mighty Max Battery 12V 35Ah SLA Battery

If your interest is to buy a cheap trolling motor battery with high-end features, this is the product for you. The ML35-12 SLA battery comes with a design that allows you to enjoy long-lasting performance despite the weather condition.

It is a Sealed Lead Acid battery which means it doesn’t need maintenance. Besides, the electrolytes are contained in an airtight container to prevent spillage. Also, it features the calcium alloy grids that give it outstanding performance for both cyclic and float applications.

This 12V battery comes with an Ampere hour rating of 35Ah. It is perfect for a little Minn Kota Endura 30 trolling motor. It can run this motor for 3 to 4 hours giving you more hours to fish. It comes with a handle at the top making it easy to carry to and from the boat. Yet, it weighs 23.15 pounds with dimensions 7.68 x 5.16 x 7.13 inches.

Another important factor in this model is its convenience and installation. It offers fast charging and discharge at a slow pace. Besides, it non-spill construction allow you to mount it in any position that you desire. Like other products from Mighty Max, this model cannot be taken down by shocks and vibrations.

You may opt for a bigger battery if you’re using a high-power trolling motor. Also, if you intend spending more than 4 hours in the water, you may need to buy a battery with a higher Amperage.

Specifications

Pros

• It is sturdy and durable.
• It doesn’t need maintenance.
• It is very reliable.
• It can operate in any weather condition.
• It doesn’t spill the liquid.
• It is cheap.
• It is resistant to shock and vibrations.

Cons

• It is only suitable for light applications

Our Verdict

This is one of the few most affordable trolling motor batteries on sale. It is very easy to use. It is powerful, efficient, and reliable. It comes in an enclosed casing that is leakage and maintenance-free. It gives superior performance in both high and low temperatures.

09 Interstate Batteries DCM0035

If you plan on getting a good trolling battery under $100, the Sealed Lead Acid (AGM) Deep Cycle Battery should come to mind. This product is equipped to provide consistent and reliable power to meet your needs.

The Sealed Lead Acid (AGM) Deep Cycle Battery weighs 23.8 pounds with a portable handle that allows you to move it with ease. It has a measurement of 7.68 x 5.16 x 6.14 inches. With this, you can use it in your precious kayak and still have space for other items. It comes with an amperage of 35Ah and can hold a charge for a bit longer. So, you can combine two of them for use in your Minnkota Trolling motor power center.

Also, this model is self-contained which means the liquid won’t spill and you’ll not maintain it. Besides, you can mount it in any position and it’s safe for transporting in the air, land, and water. It comes with a thick plastic casing that will not break due to shocks and vibrations.

It is important to use the bolts and washers in the package. This is because this battery doesn’t come with threaded posts. This makes it a little difficult to connect it to a trolling motor or charger.

So, if you’re looking for a battery that will fit into your small compartment and also charge quickly, this can be on your list.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Quick to recharge
• Durable
• Can be mounted in any position
• Easy to carry
• Doesn’t need maintenance

Cons

• It’s without a threaded post

Our Verdict

This high-performance model comes in under the $100 price range. It is lighter and smaller than many 35Ah trolling motor batteries on this list. It is powerful and dependable. The container walls are thick making it resistant to vibrations.

It gives you the option to power your trolling motor and charge your phone at once. So, if you want an affordable trolling motor battery with a long service life, this choice is for you.

10 Optima Batteries 8052-D31M

If you’re looking for a feature-rich product then your search is over. You can use the Optima Batteries 8052-D31M Blue Top for starting and deep cycling. This means it can release enough energy at startup to crank your engine. Also, it can sustain your trolling motor and still power other electrical appliances.

It comes with a reserve capacity of 155 minutes and CCA of 900. So, you are guaranteed of consistent performance for your trolling motor needs. It works well as a boat and RV batteries. Its ampere-hour rating is 75Ah which means it’ll deliver efficient power and you’ll spend less time worrying about its runtime.

It can withstand vibrations thanks to its plastic body that is 15 times stronger than other marine deep cycle batteries. It comes with stainless steel stud posts to enhance its conduction and efficiency. It is spill-proof meaning you can mount it as you desire without spilling the liquid into the environment. Also, it is self-maintaining meaning you don’t need to add distilled water to keep it functioning.

This model weighs almost 60 pounds with dimensions 12.8 x 6.5 x 9.4 inches making it suitable for bigger trolling motors and boats. You wouldn’t expect something lightweight from a battery with such great capabilities.

So, for a reliable and maintenance-free power source that will start and keep your engine running at any time, the Optima Batteries 8052-D31M Blue Top is for you.

Specifications

Pros

• Powerful and reliable
• Has good reserve capacity
• Can withstand frequent charging and discharge
• For both starting and deep cycling
• Comes with a 2-years warranty
• More resistant to shocks and vibrations
• Can’t be limited by bad weather conditions

Cons

• It is big, heavy, and expensive

Our Verdict

This is a powerful trolling motor battery for deep cycling operations. You can use it as a boat battery and for your RV needs. It comes with a huge reserve capacity which means more fun time in the water. It comes with a 2-year warranty that covers the cost replacement.

It will recharge fast and will last after a single charge. This model is big and heavy making it unsuitable for small boats and kayaks. Although it’s the most expensive on this list, it’s one of the best batteries for trolling motors.

The Usefulness of Trolling Motor Batteries

Think of the many functions of the car battery and you’ll know the usefulness of a trolling motor (often mistakenly called trolley motor) battery. The function of this battery is to supply the power for running your boat’s saltwater trolling motor. You may also use the battery to power other equipment on-board. But we’d suggest not to use a lawn mower battery as you might end up over-discharging them.

Having a trolling battery for your energy needs will keep your engine working even if your main power source fails. A trolling battery offers you the opportunity to run your trolling motor with efficiency while charging. In essence, this battery will enhance your comfort and convenience while in the boat. It helps you plan your routine as it can function as a reminder of the right time to close for the day.

If you’re on the water in the afternoon, you can charge your battery with the sun’s energy. You can charge your phone or power your radio while the battery is charging. You may need two batteries; one to power your appliances while the other is charging.

Worrying about your battery or engine failing is the last thing to come to your mind while you’re in your boat. To ensure that you enjoy a safe and thrilling ride, use only a top-quality battery for your trolling motor.

Trolling Motor Battery Buying Guide: What to Look For

So, what is the best battery for a trolling motor? Well, that depends on several  variables–type of the motor, type of the boat, how often you use the boat and under what circumstances. But to nail a great deal, you’ve got to have some basics first.

Unless you have a trolling motor with a built-in battery, you may face some difficulties when choosing good quality batteries. Although they’re all batteries, they’re different on multiple grounds. For this reason, you should do some research if you want to detect the best trolling motor batteries to avoid regrets. To help ease your work, here are some of the things you should consider.

1. Type

• Wet-Cell Batteries

The wet-cell is the cheapest trolling motor battery available on the market. It uses an electrolyte to energize the cells. They can withstand frequent charging, discharging, and even overcharging. Thus, they’ve become the perfect alternative power source for cars and trolling motors.

The major issue to worry in this battery is the need for frequent maintenance. If you’ve been using a wet-cell battery in your car, you know what I’m talking about. So, you’ll need to add some quantity of distilled water to the liquid acid to keep it in good condition. Besides adding water, you’ll need to test the concentration of the acid with a hydrometer.

Since wet-cell batteries are not sealed, the sulfuric acid could leak. This will result in corrosion further decay of the cells. Any of these will dull the performance of the battery.

If you are on a small vessel, be it an inflatable boat or an inflatable kayak or any other traditional boat, and head into some rocky areas in the water or bump into something hard, it may result in leakage or permanent damage to the battery. Thus, the battery casing should be able to withstand the shocks and absorb vibrations.

Also, your battery compartment should have enough ventilation to ward off hydrogen gas which they release as part of internal chemical reactions.

• AGM Batteries

Most anglers may prefer AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries to the wet-cell battery because they neither leak nor emit hydrogen gas. Since they’re sealed, you can mount them in any position. They’re mostly compact making them perfect for use in lightweight water vessels.

Also, AGM batteries will charge to full capacity within a short time. After a complete charge, it’ll take a long time to discharge, unlike a wet-cell. They’re lightweight, yet can store more power per area than wet-cells. Thus, they’re the perfect trolling battery for small kayaks and boats.

Another advantage of the AGM batteries is that you can charge and discharge them without needing to maintain. Besides, they can withstand vibrations and bad weather.

It is important to use a smart charger with an AGM battery to avoid overcharging. Also, it is damaging to expose it to extreme heat. You may have to look beyond the initial cost of buying an AGM battery and focus on its long term benefits. You can go for solar powered chargers as these batteries are more compatible with them.

• Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Lithium-ion battery is the latest among other trolling motor battery types. Some say that these are the best batteries for trolling motors. Increasingly, they’re getting more popular among anglers and hobbyists. This is because of their many benefits. The most outstanding feature of a lithium-ion battery is weight.

This is because they’re lighter than both AGM and wet-cell batteries. Although they’re more expensive, they give the best performance.

Many manufacturers of electronic gadgets like smartphones and laptops rely on lithium-ion batteries. The reason is that they’re fast to charge and very slow to discharge. The Lithium-ion battery is more popular among sport anglers. This is because they charge fast, meaning you’ll spend less time waiting for its recovery.

Also, being a lightweight trolling motor battery, your kayak will be light, fast, and easy to maneuver.

The only drawback with lithium-ion batteries is their tendency to catch fire when overheating. To avoid this, keep them away from direct heat sources.

2. Dual Purpose Batteries vs. Deep Cycle Batteries

You can either use a dual purpose or deep cycle battery (frequently mistaken as deep cell battery) to power your trolling motor. The design of these batteries allows them to discharge gradually until all the power is gone. A starting battery works differently in the sense that it’ll release a great percentage of its power only to trigger the engine to start.

So, instead of a starting battery, you’ll need a dual purpose or deep cycle battery for your trolling motors.

Dual-purpose batteries can crank engines and power trolling motors too. So, dual-purpose batteries are used for both deep cycling and starting. If you desire to power your boat’s motors with a single battery, then a dual-purpose battery is perfect.

Deep cycle batteries will discharge more of their power gradually over time. When used in trolling motors, deep cycle batteries tend to last longer than dual-purpose batteries. If you need a battery that’ll power only your trolling motor, then a deep cycle battery is for you.

A deep cycle battery is designed to withstand all vibrations and shocks from the boat. Also, they’re not easily affected by heat. This makes them the right choice for kayaking in the sun.

3. Ampere Hours (Ah)

The energy rating for deep cycle batteries is Ampere hours. This is defined as the total charge in the battery when one ampere of current is discharged for an hour. This unit is a measurement of the capacity of the battery. It gives a clue to the quantity of energy that the battery can store.

Some of the smallest deep cycle batteries have 25 to 50Ah while larger batteries can be as high as 100Ah. Yet, there is no ideal ampere-hour rating for a trolling motor battery. You’ll buy a battery that’ll match your boat’s energy needs and fishing style.

So, if the Ah value is high, the battery can power the motor and other appliances a bit longer. You can expect higher thrust and propulsion out of it. Also, if your vessel is large, then you’ll need a battery with a higher Ah rating. Besides, this value will drop with continuous usage of the battery. So, try checking the Ah rating before paying for the product.

4. Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

It’s important to know the CCA of the battery when buying the best marine battery for your trolling motor. Cold Cranking Amps gives the quantity of current that leaves the battery within the first 30 seconds. If you’re buying a starter battery, then you’ll need to know its CCA.

This will help you know the initial large amount of power the starter battery can release.

While the CCA is only associated with a starter battery, the reserve capacity is for the trolling motor battery. The reserve capacity is given by the time it takes a battery to supply its energy before it runs out. You’ll only need the CCA if you’re getting a battery that will start your equipment and still run it.

5. Cycle Life

This rating is mostly between 2 to 4 years. But you’ll rarely see it in the product specification. If the manufacturer doesn’t state the cycle life, you’ll need to read the product’s review to get the information. Also make sure you have a look at the size chart of these batteries for solving compatibility issues with the motors.

6. Vibration Resistance & Durability

Before you decide on the trolling motor battery to buy, you need to know its vibration resistance. This factor is very important in the lifespan of the battery. This is because your battery will experience shocks when kayaking across choppy areas of the water, although not as much as it would be caused by an outboard motor. The ability of your battery to withstand this impact will determine its durability.

7. Weight

Looking at the weight is very important when shopping for your ideal trolling motor battery. The battery’s weight shouldn’t exceed your boat’s weight limit. Most trolling motor batteries weigh between 20 to 60 pounds. The best batteries for kayak trolling motors should weigh about 30 pounds or less.

8. Design & Construction

The type of battery will determine its design and construction. For example, all AGM batteries are sealed. Although wet-cells contain liquid acids like AGM’s, they’re not completely air tight. Some of the best-rated trolling motor batteries come with thick bodies that insulate them.

This feature helps to the life of the battery and prevent the need for its early replacement. These batteries are ideal for fishing kayaks.

9. Maintenance

One of the reasons you’ll prefer AGM batteries is their zero need for maintenance. Unlike for regular models, you wouldn’t have to invest money for buying distilled water regularly for AGM models. Also, AGM batteries are leak-proof making them easy to position or carry.

10. Convenience

Some types are more convenient in terms of handling, installation, and maintenance.

11. Versatility

Most batteries will only start the motor but won’t power other electrical equipment. So, the versatility of the battery is given by its number of applications in and outside the boat or canoe. Besides, your batteries should be used to power a motorcycle, wheelchair, alarm systems and much more.

Trolling Motor Battery Storing & Cleaning Tips

Even the best batteries for trolling motors require maintenance. They need your attention to keep functioning for long. If you maintain it well, it’ll perform at its best. Besides, you need to follow the safety standards for its storage to prevent damages. Here are the instructions for its storage and cleaning.

Storage & Charging Tips

• Recharge your battery once you’re back from fishing
• Don’t leave the battery dead for long
• Recharge the battery from time to time even if you’re not using it
• Store it in a cool and dry place
• Never mix used and new batteries together
• Extreme cold temperatures may damage your battery, and avoid it
• Don’t overcharge your battery
• Choose from 2-bank, 3-bank (also known as three or triple bank) or 4-bank chargers if you have multiple batteries
• Don’t always drain the battery dead
• Installing an inline fuse is always a good idea
• Don’t forget to install a kill switch

Cleaning Tips

• Remove dirt and dust from the surface of the battery
• If you notice any corrosion on the connectors, wipe it off
• Inspect your wet-cell battery and fill it with distilled water periodically
• Examine that the extension cable and the wiring don’t have any leakage
• Ensure the liquid in your battery doesn’t leak
• Test the acidity of the liquid with a hydrometer at least once in a while

Wrapping It Up

Having gone through the entire article, hopefully, you now know the best trolling motor batteries. We’ve shown how tricky it could be to detect one. There are a number of boxes to tick, details and categories to learn when it comes to ranking a battery to the top.

Once you know the energy demand of your boat or the voltage of your trolling motor, it’ll be easy to choose a battery. We’ve also shown what other features you need to follow to get the model that will  fit your needs.

However, it is important to know that your kayak may not need a bigger and heavier battery. Always think of the ability of your boat to bear the weight of the battery before making your choice. Always bear in mind the length of time you intend to sail on the water.

Caution is the best prevention for any unexpected scenario. We’d also suggest that you carry an extra battery if your boat can support that.

Happy Shopping!

FAQ

Q: What is the best battery for a Minn Kota trolling motor?
Ans: Minn Kota trolling motors usually require 12-volt batteries. These are good with any deep cycle marine lead-acid battery. If you want to get the highest output, employ a deep cycle (marine) battery and make sure it is at least 110 Ah rating.

Q: What size battery do I need for a 55 lb thrust trolling motor?
Ans: A 55-pound thrust motor offers a 40 amps peak power draw. You will be needing a 120Ah battery load for your trolling motor if you run it at an average 50 percent load (at 20 amps) for 6 hours.

Q: How long should trolling motor batteries last?
Ans: Depending on the quality of your battery and its specs, the deep cycle batteries tend to last between 3 to 12 months.

Q: Can you use a regular battery for a trolling motor?
Ans: You can, in fact, use a regular battery for a trolling motor, but they won’t last even half of the duration of a deep cycle battery that is designed to boost a trolling motor for a longer period of time.

Q: How deep should a trolling motor be in the water?
Ans: We recommend you not to put the top of the motor more or less than 12 inches into the water. It’s the standard practice.