Are you looking to purchase one of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors ? Then, this buying guide is definitely for you.
Let’s be honest. A dead trolling motor battery is the fastest way to ruin an exciting fishing day.
After all, performance is the main focus of fishing equipment.
Therefore, equipment that struggles to perform its intended function has to be replaced.
There is no exemption for a trolling motor battery.
It’s not challenging to discover a great product, but there are a few things to consider while looking for the best trolling motor battery for your boat.
It comprises selecting a battery that will work effectively with your trolling motor and best suit your needs, depending on how you have your fishing set up.
For many fishermen, the motor’s runtime is the most important factor, followed by choosing a good battery.
Overview: Best Batteries For Trolling Motors
Trolling motors are helpful in many applications, such as fishing kayaks. Finding the optimal alternative will thus depend on the intended usage.
Everyone who fishes is aware that bass boats may use trolling motors.
They can be seen on inflatable boats as well. This article evaluates our top selections for trolling motors, which will provide you with the most value for your money as their flexibility and popularity grow.
And a few practical hints to assist you in selecting the ideal trolling motor battery for your power requirements.
The finest trolling motor batteries will generally keep you going for at least a full day on a charge and won’t let you down after many charge cycles.
Beyond that, there are several factors to consider when choosing your power source, such as the size of the boat, your finances, how many you’ll need, and weight issues.
Features of Good Batteries for Trolling Motors: Best Batteries For Trolling Motors
Every one of us has different demands and preferences when it comes to trolling motor batteries.
There are a variety of considerations that will determine the best match for you, ranging from your frequency of fishing to your budget to the size of your vessel.
In light of this, we’ve compiled a list of buying guidelines to make choosing the finest trolling motor battery simple.
Size/Weight
It’s possible that your preferred battery won’t fit or be too heavy for some boats due to their differing storage capacities.
That occasionally calls for compromise. Particularly sensitive to weight and available space, kayaks demand careful planning.
Your bass boat will lose almost 150 pounds if you go from AGM to lithium batteries, which will increase speed but necessitate different trim and jack plate levels for optimal driving.
Battery Types
Lead-acid wet-cell and AGM Batteries were the two main deep-cycle 12-volt batteries that were advised for use with trolling motors for a long time.
The phrase “deep cycle” denotes that the batteries are made to be recharged more frequently and for longer periods while discharging lower quantities of electricity.
Although lithium batteries are starting to gain traction, “conventional” batteries are still by far the most common trolling motor batteries.
Wet Lead Acid Cell
The most popular deep-cycle batteries for trolling motors are still lead-acid batteries. They are the least expensive alternative and can withstand the repeated draining and recharging that come with the trolling motor operation. Lead acid batteries typically last between two and three years, depending on quality.
These batteries are easily accessible at many retail locations and may be purchased for less than $100. Lead acid batteries have a few drawbacks, including the need for sporadic maintenance (top-off water), susceptibility to vibration, and leakage.
AGM Batteries
Lead acid batteries of the AGM (absorbed glass mat) variety are sealed, often last longer on a charge, and normally have a longer lifespan. AGM deep-cycle batteries have a longer lifespan than conventional deep-cycle batteries, which can last up to three or four years.
AGM batteries can cost up to two times as much as regular lead acid wet-cell batteries, so they might not be a choice for people on a low budget.
They are more costly, but provide better performance and lifespan on the water. AGMs also have the benefit of being completely maintenance-free. The good news is that over the past few years, AGM prices have been steadily declining.
Lithium Battery
Several factors are causing the popularity of lithium batteries to rise:
- Extremely Lightweight – Lithium batteries offer an average weight reduction of 70% when compared to conventional batteries, making them ideal for smaller boats and vessels where weight might be a significant problem.
- Significantly Longer Battery Life – Lead acid wet-cell and AGM batteries typically last 2-4 years, however, lithium batteries can last up to 10 years. Even though lithium batteries cost more upfront, they might end up saving you money over time. You’ll probably end up spending less on batteries overall if you figure out the cost of changing your batteries every 2-3 years as compared to every 10 years with lithium.
- 100% Depth of Discharge: This simply implies that no matter how much charge is in the battery, you will have full power. As their charge decreases, traditional batteries tend to lose strength and capacity. By the way, lithium batteries may be charged with the new Minn Kota Precision chargers.
- More Power: Because trolling motors constantly and abruptly change speeds, they need a substantial amount of starting torque (aka thrust). Since lithium batteries barely experience a voltage drop when sudden acceleration is necessary, they provide greater power.
- Smaller surface area: lithium batteries are not only lighter, but they also occupy less room. You may get a 24-volt lithium battery, for instance, which is the same size as a 12-volt group 27 deep cycle battery.
In the end, high-quality batteries with the appropriate specifications will offer enough power for a full day of fishing.
Your final decision will be influenced by your priorities, installation requirements, and financial constraints.
Important Factors To Note When Buying Good Batteries for Trolling Motors
Warranty
The majority of batteries come with an initial “no questions asked” replacement period and a subsequent prorated warranty period. Consider the conditions around replacement, but also account for that in case they fail at a bad moment.
Is it available over-the-counter at the nearby store, or do you have to ship it back and await a month for an evaluation and replacement?
Durability
The fact that robust batteries last longer is obvious. So, keep a lookout for characteristics that highlight a battery’s robustness. For instance, AGM batteries have a case that is completely sealed. This reduces their vulnerability to leaks, damage, and issues brought on by shock or vibrations.
AGM batteries cost more than their wet cell equivalents, though. In the end, enhanced endurance has a price. Spending more money, however, results in a battery that lasts longer and pays for itself over time.
Maintenance
Wet cell batteries may require some maintenance. It requires filling them back up with filtered water, checking for corrosion, and then cleaning them as necessary. Corrosion may be easily removed by mixing baking soda and water into the ideal “cocktail.” Yes, the battery is less valuable because of this trouble.
But keep in mind that wet-cell batteries are wonderfully inexpensive. Therefore, for those looking to save money, the requirement for little maintenance may be worthwhile. AGM and lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, don’t require any kind of maintenance.
So the least of your concerns should be checking the battery’s inside or water levels for harm. They cost more than their wet cell equivalents, but they require no maintenance at all.
Lifespan
From one trolling motor battery to another, it differs significantly. For instance, wet cell batteries have the shortest life expectancy, which, with ideal maintenance, can reach 2 years. AGM batteries, on the other hand, have a longer lifespan that may last up to 5 or 6 years, depending on the quality.
And the longer-lasting lithium-ion alternatives top the list with up to ten years. Remember that a longer lifespan has a higher cost.
My Recommendations And Specifications: Best Batteries for Trolling Motors
| Products | Weight | Product’s Dimension | Voltage | Manufacturer |
| Interstate Batteries DCM0055 12V Deep Cycle Battery | ‎37 pounds | 9.02 x 5.43 x 8.27 inches | ‎12 Volts | ‎Interstate Batteries |
| Optima OPT8016-103 Deep Cycle Marine Battery | 43.5 pounds | 10 x 6.88 x 7.8 inches | ‎12 Volts | ‎Optima Batteries |
| Mighty Max Battery Power Boat Pontoon Deep Cycle Electric Trolling Motor Battery | 64 pounds | 9.06 x 5.43 x 8.98 inches | ‎12 Volts | Mighty Max Battery |
| WEIZE Deep Cycle AGM SLA VRLA Battery | ‎60 pounds | 12.99 x 6.73 x 8.34 inches | ‎12 Volts | WEIZE |
| Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery | ‎60 pounds | 12.17 x 6.61 x 9.16 inches | ‎12 Volts | Universal Power Group |
5Interstate Batteries DCM0055 12V Deep Cycle Battery
The 5th best battery on this list of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors is the Interstate Batteries DCM0055 12V Deep Cycle Battery.
Designed for deep discharge applications, Interstate’s DCM0055 12V 61AH Lead Acid-AGM Deep Cycle Insert Terminal battery is a quality battery with a long lifespan.
This professional battery is spill-proof, maintenance-free, rechargeable, and compatible with 12V battery applications. It also has valve regulation technology.
The DCM0055 operates admirably under high demand and has a longer lifespan for deep discharge applications. Make the proper choice in rechargeable, sealed lead acid batteries to power your performance.
Invacare batteries, Hoveround, ATVs, Bruno wheelchairs, and many more leading wheelchair and electric scooter manufacturers are compatible with Interstate Batteries’ Deep-Cycle Mobility offering, the DCM0055 Replacement battery. Golf cart batteries cannot be replaced by this product.
Because of the AGM and VRLA (valve-regulated) technology, which prevent spills and overpressure, the device is rechargeable, maintenance-free, and spill-proof.
A product of exceptional quality designed exclusively for wheelchairs and scooters; the finest performance for high-demand wheelchairs and mobility devices with a longer lifespan for deep discharge usage.
Pros
- Even more, it has confirmed dependability.
- It features a spill-proof, sealed design.
- This battery is both small and light.
- Also, it is suitable for smaller crafts like kayaks.
- Even more, it is pocket-friendly.
- It can also function for up to 4 years without problems.
- Moreover, it doesn’t require upkeep.
Cons
- There aren’t any threaded posts for a simple setup.
- Not appropriate for bigger vessels.
- Lastly, it is heavier than lithium by a small amount.
4Optima OPT8016-103 Deep Cycle Marine Battery
The 4th best in his list of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors is the Optima OPT8016-103 Deep Cycle Marine Battery.
Professional racecar drivers and tournament anglers agree that Optima batteries are the best option for dependable power in the harshest circumstances. A marine battery with dual functions starts and maintains the boat motor. The OPT 8016 battery from Optima does both jobs best.
The performance of the well-known blue-top battery is enhanced by its exclusive Spiralcell and Pureflow architecture. Spiralcell increases vibration resistance by using stronger linkages between the battery’s cells.
The best lead cells are used by Pureflow for maximum power efficiency.
The Optima 8016 may be put in any place because it is sealed. Additionally, the battery requires no upkeep for many years of consistent power. Optima 8016 is one of the best AGM deep-cycle marine batteries available.
Unlike the sometimes cumbersome AGMs from other manufacturers, the Optima Bluetops blend AGM design into a frame that is far lighter and more compact.
This implies that you receive the long runtime and several recharges that this category offers but without the competitor’s space-stealing footprint.
There are four variants to accommodate different power requirements and space restrictions for fishermen, but each one has the same established dependability.
A replacement or exchange should not be a problem if you do have a problem, but their trouble-free model makes that uncommon. They are also readily accessible, so that shouldn’t be a problem either. They are plug-and-play.
Put them in the boat and be ready to operate your trolling motor for whatever length you can tolerate being outside.
Pros
- This battery endures countless recharges.
- Almost any position may be used for mounting.
- Dual-use.
- Furthermore, it enables quick charging.
- Even more, it is ideal for startup and deep-cycle applications.
- Also, it can be put to use in cold climates.
- 100% upkeep-free.
- Additionally, it features a low internal resistance.
- Zero leaks.
- Long-lasting.
- Lastly, it is both small and light.
Con
- More expensive than other comparable-sized models
3Mighty Max Battery Power Boat Pontoon Deep Cycle Electric Trolling Motor Battery
Making it to this list of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors as the 3rd best is the Mighty Max Battery Power Boat Pontoon Deep Cycle Electric Trolling Motor Battery.
The Mighty Max 12V 100Ah is the Holy Grail of trolling motor batteries if you’re searching for a strong one. It offers adequate power for any kind of boating adventure. Keep in mind that your motor’s power affects how long it runs.
Therefore, the battery can last you up to 12 hours before a recharge is required if you’re running the trolling motor at modest speeds, for example. However, this works with several motors that have thrusts of 60 lbs, 30 lbs, 50 lbs, or 40 lbs.
You may get an astonishing 7 hours when you set it at medium power. On the other hand, you may get up to 2.5 hours of charging at the fastest speeds.
Even though this Mighty Max battery can accomplish a lot, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. It adds a huge amount of weight to your boat because it weighs roughly 64 pounds.
Second, it has large proportions, measuring 12.17″ x 6.61″ x 8.30.” Therefore, if there isn’t enough space on your boat, this battery could not work well.
The Mighty Max 12V battery is sealed since it is an AGM, which improves performance and durability while ensuring no charge loss or vibration leaks. Additionally, there is no requirement for fluid refills, extending the lifespan to up to 4 years.
Pros
- This battery may be mounted in any location.
- Even more, it has a long lifespan.
- There is no upkeep necessary.
- Additionally, it operates without a hitch at a variety of temperatures.
- Further, it is ideal for bigger trolling motors.
- Also, it ensures that there are no leaks or charge losses due to vibrations.
- Affordable.
- Lastly, it uses the lowest speed settings for up to 12 hours of operation.
Con
- This battery is hefty and massive in size.
- Also, it is ideal only for larger trolling motors.
2WEIZE Deep Cycle AGM SLA VRLA Battery
The 2nd best battery on this list of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors is the WEIZE Deep Cycle AGM SLA VRLA Battery.
One of the leading producers of high-quality batteries is Weize. The firm offers batteries for all applications, whether you need one for solar panels, RV camping, or household usage. However, not all of their batteries may be appropriate for your requirements.
Low self-discharge rates, or 3.3% per month or 40% per year, are characteristic of SLA batteries. When fully charged, these batteries can be kept without being charged for up to 5–6 months, however, doing so is not advised.
You ought to top them off at least once every two to three months. SLA batteries need to be carefully kept and maintained to extend their shelf life.
It is a true deep cycle battery and should NOT be used as a starting or cranking battery, with the possible exception of very small internal combustion engines whose starters require less than 100 Amps or something comparable. The Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle AGM battery is designed for both standby and deep cycle applications.
Charge voltage should be kept between 14.50 and 14.90 volts when used in cyclic applications and between 13.50 and 13.80 volts when used in standby applications.
No matter the application, the charging current should not exceed 30 amps. Although it has good recovery characteristics and is a true deep-discharge battery, its calcium-lead alloy grid ensures a low self-discharge rate and a long service life.
However, the actual number of cycles may be substantially increased as long as the battery is not discharged below 50% DoD, especially if not below 80% DoD.
Pros
- It is well constructed.
- Furthermore, the customer service is excellent.
- It is also simple to install.
- The battery has a very long lifespan.
- Additionally, it is reasonably priced.
Con
- Not available.
1Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery
The overall best battery on this list of the 5 best batteries for trolling motors is the Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery.
Are you trying to get a reliable trolling motor that was made with adaptability in mind? The Universal Power Group 12V Battery completes your search at that point. It’s ideal for a variety of thrilling outdoor pursuits, including camping and fishing, and it works with RVs.
This battery, which offers a stunning 100 Ah, can charge both big and small trolling boats.
The Universal Power Group 12V’s AGM battery makes maintenance the smallest of your concerns. It won’t require fluid refills because it is completely sealed. It also suggests that the battery can tolerate vibrations and shocks without losing performance.
Therefore, the battery’s performance won’t suffer while you’re cruising or accelerating over rough water. Leaks will also become the least of your worries.
Compact in size, the Universal Power Group 12V Battery is just 64 pounds in weight and is 12.17″ X 6.61″ X 9.16″. It may thus be mounted in various places, which is fantastic news for fishermen who need to maximize space on their boats.
It is advised to deplete the battery to 50% to increase its lifespan by up to 5 years.
Pros
- There is no upkeep necessary.
- Even more, it has a high 100 Ah capacity.
- Furthermore, it doesn’t require fluid refills.
- Also, it is versatile.
- Additionally, it is movable to conserve space at various locations.
- Up to 5 years can be added to the battery’s lifespan.
Con
- Heavy compared to other models.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Batteries for Trolling Motors
I advise using a 12-volt marine deep cycle battery rated at least 110 amp hours. Usually, at least Group 27 size. Your trolling motor will have greater run time if its amp-hour rating is higher.
The battery’s amperage-hour rating determines the runtime. Most 55-pound thrust motors can theoretically operate continuously at their greatest speed for an hour on a 50-AH battery.
A 100Ah lithium battery will power the trolling motor at maximum speed for 1.85 hours, or 1 hour and 51 minutes.
The quick response is no. This battery appears to be suitable for powering a trolling motor, however, it is not.
Even while a vehicle battery and a battery specifically designed for a trolling motor have a similar appearance and operate on 12V systems, their internal structures and approaches to power delivery and deep discharge are completely different.
Remember that the pace and conditions of your battery will determine whether it draws more or fewer amps. You’ll consume a lot more amps if you’re moving upstream at full speed than if you’re moving downstream at a modest pace. Generally speaking, a 100Ah battery will be sufficient for trolling motor configurations.
My Final Thoughts: Best Batteries for Trolling Motors
A dead trolling motor battery forces everyone to end their boat excursions, which is not what they wanted. Fortunately, batteries are now more advanced than ever, giving improved performance, little to no maintenance, and many other benefits. So, place your purchase now!
Most fishermen don’t think twice about their trolling motor batteries until they start to significantly deteriorate or fail. That is incorrect since, in many cases, you cannot fish without them; they serve as the belt loops for your jeans and the belt for your belt.
In the kayaking industry, where long days are in high demand right now, this is becoming more and more true.
Larger boats are also important since people tend to pick an area apart rather than sprint from one location to another as a result of high gasoline expenses. To operate to their fullest capacity, the best trolling motors require the best trolling motor batteries.
The Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM SLA Deep Cycle VRLA Battery is the best trolling motor battery, balancing performance, design, and price. One or more of these recognizable batteries may be found within the hatch and under the hood of many of the best professional drivers and fishermen.
The Universal Power Group Solar Wind AGM SLA Deep Cycle VRLA Battery is the finest trolling motor battery available thanks to its robust design and superior performance.
All you have to do to make a purchase is click the Buy Now buttons located beneath each product.
I hope you find our shopping advice for the top 5 trolling motor batteries useful. Please rate this buying guide if you found the review useful by using the “Leave a Reply” box at the bottom of this page.
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