Our Guide to Buying the Right Trolling Motor for Your Boat

Trolling Motors

Trolling motors offer fishers a cross between boat control and effortless spot hopping. Because of these characteristics, anglers can be more dexterous and strategic in terms of fishing, which is why an increasing number of enthusiasts are starting to purchase this upgrade.

As a fisher, you want to secure the best spot before you make your cast. Normally, a fishing boat with a normal motor will only go straight and not towards an angle. With trolling motors, you can easily make the boat go towards a direction without having to point the nose of the boat towards it.

If you’re interested in buying a trolling motor for your boat, you may want to read further to ensure that you’re making the right purchase.

Consider the thrust

Trolling motors have different power ratings, which you will need to consider. Electric motors use battery power to push or propel the boat. This strength is called the thrust and is one of the most important aspects of choosing a trolling motor. You want to make sure that the thrust of the motor is sufficient to propel your boat, or else, you’re going to have a hard time navigating the waters.

That said, the weight of the boat is not the only thing you need to take note of when choosing the motor with the right power rating. Things such as the length of the boat, the weight of your gear, the number of fishers who will use the boat at the same time, and the common weather conditions, need to be factored into determining the adequacy of the motor’s power rating.

Consider the voltage and batteries of the motor

Trolling motors operate using batteries and come in different power systems. You have a 12-volt, a 24-volt, and a 36-volt trolling motor. While it may be a no-brainer, the higher the volts, the more powerful the motor is; the lower the volts, the more inexpensive it is.

The 12-volt motors are adequate for boats that measure 16 feet in length. More than 16 feet and the 12-volt motor will have a hard time propelling the boat, which is where 24- or 36-volt motors come into play.

There aren’t really limitations when it comes to buying the motor that runs more volts except for the price. That means if you can afford a 36-volt motor, then it’s best to go for that one as it will greatly improve your fishing experience overall.

Consider the trolling motor shaft length

Your motor’s shaft length is what allows you to control the boat and make it go toward a direction. As a general rule, the shorter shaft may not resist adverse water conditions, while the longer one will make it hard to navigate shallow waters.

Determine the conditions you’re likely to encounter during fishing and purchase the motor with the appropriate shaft length.

Conclusion

Now that you know what to look for in a trolling motor, it’s time to browse the market and choose the right model. Remember the above aspects and factor them in when making your decision. Additionally, you want to consider external factors, such as weather and water conditions, to help you pick the right motor.

The Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor provides a good balance between stability and speed. If you’re looking for the best trolling motor in Oklahoma, the Minn Kota will not let you down. Check us out to learn more about this product.