Your Ultimate Guide for Shopping for a New Trolling Motor
If you’re an avid fisherman or boater, you know how important it is to have a high-quality trolling motor. A good trolling motor can help you navigate through difficult waters, keep your boat steady in rough conditions, and increase your chances of catching fish. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to shopping for a new trolling motor. Here, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider before making your purchase, as well as some of our top picks for the best trolling motors available. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, we’ve got you covered.
- Thrust Power
The first factor to consider when shopping for a trolling motor is the thrust power. This refers to the amount of force the motor can exert to move the boat through the water. Generally, the larger your boat, the greater the thrust power you will need. As a rule of thumb, for every 100 pounds of weight in your boat, you should have 2 pounds of thrust power. So, if your boat weighs 2000 pounds, you should look for a trolling motor with at least 40 pounds of thrust power.
- Shaft Length
The next factor to consider is the shaft length of the trolling motor. This refers to the length of the metal rod that connects the motor to the boat. The shaft length should be long enough to keep the propeller submerged in the water at all times, even in rough conditions. A general rule of thumb is that the shaft length should be at least as long as the distance from the boat’s deck to the waterline.
- Control Type
There are two main types of control for trolling motors – hand-operated and foot-operated. Hand-operated controls are usually more affordable, but they can be less precise than foot-operated controls. Foot-operated controls allow for hands-free operation and greater control over the direction and speed of the boat. Some trolling motors even come with wireless controls for added convenience.
- Battery Life
Another important factor to consider when shopping for a trolling motor is the battery life. Trolling motors run off of a 12-volt battery or a 24-volt battery. The battery life will depend on the size and type of battery you use, as well as the amount of thrust power the motor requires. To ensure you have enough battery life for your needs, look for a trolling motor with a battery meter or an indicator that lets you know when the battery is running low.
- Top Picks
Now that you know the key factors to consider when shopping for a trolling motor, let’s take a look at some of our top picks for the best trolling motors available. Our top pick for performance and power is the Minn Kota Ultrex Bow-Mount Trolling Motor, which features a GPS system, universal sonar, and a powerful thrust power of up to 112 pounds. For budget-friendly options, we recommend the MOTORGUIDE XI3-45FW – BOW MOUNT TROLLING MOTOR. Both of these motors offer reliable performance at an affordable price.
Conclusion:
Shopping for a new trolling motor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering factors such as thrust power, shaft length, control type, and battery life, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect motor for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a trolling motor out there that will help you navigate through all types of waters and catch more fish. Come visit The Hunt and Fish for a full line up of trolling motors and much more.
