Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Trolling Motor

Are you planning a fishing trip? You may need a trolling motor that will meet your needs and fit your boat, pontoon, canoe, or kayak. There are 5 factors to consider when purchasing a motor; thrust, mount type, shaft length, control type, and motor voltage.


Thrust
The most important shopping consideration is how much thrust you’ll need. The standard measurement of how powerful the trolling motor is in pounds (lbs). The larger and heavier your boat, the more thrust you’ll need to move effortlessly on the water.


Boat weight and length are both considerations to take into account when choosing a trolling motor. A good rule of thumb is that you want a minimum of 2 lbs. of thrust for every 100lbs of weight. When considering weight, make sure you calculate the heaviest potential weight which includes a boat fully loaded with gear, fuel and the maximum number of passengers. Weight is the best indicator for how much thrust is needed. Knowing the length of your boat will help you make a good purchase.


Mount Type
There are two primary trolling motor mounts. Bow (front) and transom (rear). Each type has advantages and disadvantages.


Bow mount are the most popular type, especially with medium to large boats. Bow mount motors pull the boat thru the water as opposed to rear mounts which push the boat from behind and are more difficult to steer. If maneuverability and precision are important then a bow mounted trolling motor is the best option. Bow mounts do require a flat deck and room to install it on the front.


Transom mounts are popular with smaller boats and are easier to install. Transom motors attach to the boats stern with a single clamp. Transom mounts are easier to operate from the back of the boat. The bow of the boat is also left free of cable and foot petals. Due to their simple design they are usually more affordable than bow mounts.


Shaft lengths
Selecting the proper shaft length is crucial. You want to make sure the motor’s shaft is long enough to keep the propeller submerged in varying water conditions, but not so long it hits the bottom.

Control Type
There are three types of controls: Hand, foot pedal or wireless remote. The type of control will depend on your desires and price. Hand control is the simplest method, gives immediate feedback, and is most affordable. Foot control gives you hands free operation and leaves you free to go after the big one. Wireless remote gives you the freedom to operate your trolling motor from anywhere in the boat, leave your boat clutter free, and improves safety while fishing. Wireless is definitely the Cadillac of the control types.



Motor Voltage
The higher the thrust the greater amount of voltage needed to operate the trolling motor efficiently and gives longer running time. Individual batteries are 12 volt; therefore, you will need more batteries depending on voltage requirements: 12 volts – 1 battery, 24 volts – 2 batteries, 36 volt - 3 batteries. Make sure that that you have the right voltage required by the manufacture for your trolling motor. Large motors with more thrust will require the higher 24 or 36 volt system and the increased number of batteries. Smaller boats, canoes, and kayaks will only need a 12 volt system and 1 battery. Remember, the type system you need is dictated by your boats size, weight, and time on the water.


In summary, knowing thrust needed for your size and weight boat, the mount type that you plan to utilize, the shaft length required for your boat, the control type that best fits your needs and pocketbook, plus the motor voltage chosen based on your boat size and time on the water all come together to help assure that the freshwater or saltwater trolling motor you purchase will give you excellent service and many enjoyable hours on the water.


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