MotorGuide Wireless Saltwater Bow Mount Trolling Motor

Electric trolling motors move fishing boats slowly and quietly through the water in order not to scare fish away. They are sold separately from boats, and they come with different features and price points. They differ from outboard engines that produce horsepower; a trolling engine’s power is measured by pounds of thrust. The higher this number is, the more power the motor has.

Trolling motors are sold in 12, 12/24, 24, and 36 volts. Larger motors have more voltage, which means more power for the propeller. They need electricity to work, and this comes from batteries on the boat. Trolling motors need at least one deep-cycle battery that is not used by the boat’s engine.

Decide what type of steering mechanism you want for your trolling motor. Some have tiller handles that are operated by hand, while others are operated with foot pedals. Some are easy to install with screws, while others need folding mounting brackets. Remote-controlled trolling motors are the easiest, but they will cost you more money; some even have auto-pilot!

When shopping for trolling motors, also check the boat shaft length. If the trolling motor’s propeller doesn’t reach the water, you’re out of luck. Always measure first. Also make sure the motor has enough thrust to move your boat, especially if several people are on the fishing expedition.

Mounting clamp width is also important, since most of these motors attach onto the boat’s side. If the motor’s mounting clamp doesn’t open up wide enough to attach onto the boat, you won’t be able to use it.

Some trolling motors are made for freshwater, some for saltwater and some for both. Clarify this ahead of time and find one that works in all of your favorite fishing spots.

• In general, every 400 pounds of boat weight requires approximately 5 pounds of trolling motor thrust.
• Be sure to measure the shaft length and the width that the mounting clamp needs to be before shopping.
• The biggest trolling motor is not necessarily the best one for your boat.
• People who want to fish all day should get several extra deep-cycle batteries for their trolling motors, as the motors consume a lot of electricity.
• Never use the same battery for the engine and trolling motor — the engine battery can get drained and stop working.