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Best Kayak with Trolling Motor
Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but paddling can be tiring, especially when you’re covering long distances. That’s where a trolling motor can come in handy. A trolling motor is a small electric motor that can be mounted on a kayak to help you move around with ease.
When it comes to choosing the best kayak with a trolling motor, there are a few things you should consider. First, you’ll want to think about the size and weight of the kayak. A bigger kayak will be more stable and have more room for gear, but it will also be heavier and harder to transport. You’ll also want to consider the type of water you’ll be kayaking on. A kayak with a trolling motor is great for calm lakes and slow-moving rivers, but if you plan on kayaking in rougher waters, you’ll want a more stable boat.
Another important factor to consider is the type of trolling motor you want. There are two main types: bow-mounted and stern-mounted. Bow-mounted motors are great for maneuvering in tight spaces, while stern-mounted motors are better for open water. You’ll also want to think about the power of the motor. A more powerful motor will be able to move you through the water faster, but it will also drain your battery more quickly.
After researching and testing various kayaks with trolling motors, I have identified the top models that offer the best combination of stability, maneuverability, and power.
Best Kayaks with Trolling Motors
As an avid kayaker, I know how much of a game-changer a trolling motor can be. It allows you to cover more ground, fish in deeper waters, and navigate strong currents with ease. After testing several kayaks with trolling motors, I’ve narrowed down the top picks based on their performance, durability, and overall value. Below are the best kayaks with trolling motors that I highly recommend.
Newport Kayak Series Trolling Motor
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality trolling motor for your kayak at an affordable price, the Newport Kayak Series Trolling Motor is a great option.
Pros
- The 24-inch fiberglass shaft allows for variable depth placement and offers a lifetime of dependable performance.
- With eight speeds (five forward and three reverse) and a 6-inch telescoping handle, you’re in total control of your ride.
- The durable all-aluminum motor head with corrosion-resistant magnesium, zinc, and stainless-steel hardware makes it suitable for saltwater use.
Cons
- The trolling motor is powered by one 12-volt lead-acid deep cycle or marine battery, which is not included.
- The 2-blade propeller reduces drag, but some users may prefer a 3-blade propeller for increased power.
- The battery indicator only has five LED lights, which may not provide enough detail for some users.
I recently purchased the Newport Kayak Series Trolling Motor for my kayak, and I’m very happy with my decision. The 24-inch fiberglass shaft allows me to adjust the depth placement easily, and the eight speeds give me complete control over my ride. The all-aluminum motor head is durable and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for saltwater use.
One drawback is that the trolling motor is powered by a 12-volt lead-acid deep cycle or marine battery, which is not included. However, I was able to find a suitable battery at a local store without any issues.
The 2-blade propeller reduces drag, which is great for efficiency, but some users may prefer a 3-blade propeller for increased power. Additionally, the battery indicator only has five LED lights, which may not provide enough detail for some users.
Overall, I highly recommend the Newport Kayak Series Trolling Motor for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable trolling motor for their kayak. It’s easy to install, operates quietly, and provides excellent performance on the water.
PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor
I highly recommend the PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor for anyone looking for an efficient and powerful motor for their kayak or inflatable fishing boat.
Pros
- The 36LB thrust provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. The high-quality build allows the motor to run all day long without overheating, and it runs stably with less noise, which will not disturb the fish.
- The 6″ telescoping adjustable handle is comfortable to use, and the 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds make it easy to control.
- The adjustable depth and angle allow you to adapt to different sailing conditions according to your surfing demands. The three-bladed propeller enhances motivation and efficiency, making it easy to get rid of seaweed.
Cons
- The two props that come with the motor don’t do well going through light vegetation. You may have to go high-speed forward and reverse to get the stems and leaves off. Even on low, the unit is loud.
- The wire end may pull off after the first use.
- It may be necessary to reverse the battery leads to go forward.
In my experience, the PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor is a unique and efficient motor that provides excellent power and efficiency. The adjustable depth and angle and the three-bladed propeller make it easy to use and adapt to different sailing conditions. The LED battery indicator lets you keep track of the battery’s capacity, and the 1-10 LED light indicator gives you a big hint. The motor is easy to install and operate, making it perfect for beginners and experienced boaters alike. Overall, I highly recommend the PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor for anyone looking for a powerful and efficient motor for their kayak or inflatable fishing boat.
Newport Trolling Motor Transom Motor Mount
This product is a must-have for anyone who wants to mount a standard transom motor to their kayak.
Pros
- The mount is made of heavy gauge aluminum, which makes it durable and long-lasting.
- It is compatible with both fresh water and salt water, so you can take it anywhere you want to go.
- The mount fits directly to the widely used 3.75 x 4.75 inch bolt pattern, making it easy to install.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the mount is difficult to install on certain kayaks.
- The mount is not adjustable, so you may need to make modifications to your kayak to get it to fit properly.
- The mount is relatively heavy, which may affect the performance of your kayak.
I recently purchased the Newport Trolling Motor Transom Motor Mount for my kayak, and I have to say that I am extremely impressed with it. The mount is made of heavy gauge aluminum, which makes it durable and long-lasting. It is also coated with a glossy black powder coating for salt water and fresh water protection, which is a nice touch.
One of the best things about this mount is that it is compatible with both fresh water and salt water, so you can take it anywhere you want to go. It also fits directly to the widely used 3.75 x 4.75 inch bolt pattern, making it easy to install. I was able to install it on my kayak in just a few minutes, and it has been working great ever since.
While there are a few downsides to this product, I don’t think they are significant enough to outweigh the benefits. Some users have reported that the mount is difficult to install on certain kayaks, but I didn’t have any issues with it. The mount is not adjustable, so you may need to make modifications to your kayak to get it to fit properly. Additionally, the mount is relatively heavy, which may affect the performance of your kayak. However, I haven’t noticed any negative effects on my kayak’s performance since installing the mount.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Newport Trolling Motor Transom Motor Mount to anyone who wants to mount a standard transom motor to their kayak. It is a high-quality product that is built to last, and it is compatible with both fresh water and salt water.
Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount
If you’re looking for a simple and easy-to-install trolling motor mount for your kayak, the Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount is a great option.
Pros
- The mount is made of marine-grade alloy and nylon, making it durable and long-lasting.
- It’s designed to fit most kayaks with dual rod holders, so you don’t have to modify your kayak to use it.
- The mount is adjustable for different hull widths and can fit any angle or inclination flush rod holder.
Cons
- The adjustments that allow for exact angling of the mount once placed also make it harder to tighten down and lock into place permanently.
- The rod holders that come with the mount are not very sturdy and may not hold up well over time.
- The tie-down straps that come with the mount may be too short for some kayaks.
I recently used the Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount on my own kayak and found it to be a great addition to my fishing setup. The mount was easy to install and fit snugly into my kayak’s existing rod holders. The marine-grade alloy and nylon construction of the mount made it feel sturdy and durable, and I was confident that it would hold up well over time.
One thing to note about the mount is that the adjustments that allow for exact angling of the mount once placed also make it harder to tighten down and lock into place permanently. This meant that I had to spend a bit more time adjusting the mount to get it just right, but once I had it set up to my liking, it worked great.
The rod holders that come with the mount are not very sturdy and may not hold up well over time. I found that they tended to wobble a bit when I was using them, which made me a bit nervous about putting my expensive fishing gear in them. However, I was able to replace them with sturdier rod holders that I already had, so this wasn’t a dealbreaker for me.
Overall, I would recommend the Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount to anyone looking for a simple and easy-to-install mount for their kayak. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to add a trolling motor to their kayak without having to do any major modifications.
Watersnake T18 ASP – 18 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Kayak Bracket 18 Pound Thrust Kayak Bracket
If you’re looking for a portable and lightweight trolling motor for your kayak, canoe, dinghy, or inflatable boat, then the Watersnake T18 ASP is worth considering. It’s easy to attach and steer, and it comes with a high and low-speed control, forward and reverse switch, and two-blade weedless propeller design.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Easy to attach and steer
- Comes with a high and low-speed control, forward and reverse switch, and two-blade weedless propeller design
Cons
- Kayak Bracket Mount included, but the battery is not included
- Not ideal for use near weeds or lily pads
- Doesn’t steer kayak well due to placement on the side
I recently used the Watersnake T18 ASP on my kayak, and I was impressed by how easy it was to attach and steer. The motor’s lightweight and portable design made it easy to transport and store, and the adjustable mount fitting made it easy to attach to my kayak.
The high and low-speed control, forward and reverse switch, and two-blade weedless propeller design gave me plenty of options for controlling the motor’s speed and direction. I also appreciated the extendable handle on the hand tiller, which made it more comfortable to steer.
However, I did find that the motor didn’t steer my kayak well due to the placement on the side. I had to use the oar to track the boat straight and steer. Additionally, I had some weeds wound around the propeller, even though it said it was weedless.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and portable trolling motor for your kayak, canoe, dinghy, or inflatable boat, the Watersnake T18 ASP is worth considering. Just be aware that the Kayak Bracket Mount is included, but the battery is not included. Also, it’s not ideal for use near weeds or lily pads, and it may not steer your kayak well due to the placement on the side.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best kayak with trolling motor, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. As an experienced kayaker, I have learned that the following features are essential when choosing a kayak with a trolling motor:
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the kayak are crucial factors to consider when choosing the best product. You need a kayak that is easy to transport and store, especially if you plan to use it frequently. A lightweight kayak is also easier to maneuver on the water, making it more efficient and enjoyable to use.
Motor Power
The motor power is another important factor to consider when choosing a kayak with a trolling motor. It is essential to choose a motor that provides enough power to move the kayak through the water, especially if you plan to use it for fishing or other activities that require speed and agility.
Battery Life
The battery life of the trolling motor is also an essential factor to consider when choosing the best kayak. You need a battery that can last for several hours, especially if you plan to use the kayak for long periods. It is also essential to choose a battery that is easy to charge and replace.
Comfort and Safety
Comfort and safety are also crucial factors to consider when choosing a kayak with a trolling motor. You need a kayak that is comfortable to sit in for long periods, especially if you plan to use it for fishing or other activities that require you to sit for extended periods. It is also essential to choose a kayak that is safe and stable, especially if you plan to use it in rough waters or challenging conditions.
Additional Features
Finally, it is essential to consider any additional features that the kayak may offer, such as storage compartments, rod holders, and other accessories. These features can make your kayaking experience more enjoyable and convenient, so it is important to choose a kayak that offers the features you need.
In summary, when choosing the best kayak with trolling motor, it is essential to consider factors such as size and weight, motor power, battery life, comfort and safety, and additional features. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the best product for your needs and enjoy a safe and comfortable kayaking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good options for a motorized fishing kayak?
If you’re looking for a motorized fishing kayak, some good options include the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120, the Bassyaks Gheenoe, and the Wilderness Systems Radar 135. These kayaks are designed specifically for fishing and come equipped with trolling motors.
Where can I find a kayak with a trolling motor for sale?
You can find kayaks with trolling motors for sale at most outdoor sporting goods stores, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and REI.
What is the maximum speed a trolling motor can push a kayak?
The maximum speed a trolling motor can push a kayak depends on several factors, including the size and weight of the kayak, the strength of the motor, and the conditions of the water. Generally, most trolling motors can push a kayak at speeds of up to 5-6 miles per hour.
Are there any fishing kayaks that come with an electric motor pre-installed?
Yes, there are several fishing kayaks that come with electric motors pre-installed, including the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 360, the Native Watercraft Titan Propel 13.5, and the Perception Pescador Pilot.
Can any kayak be modified to accommodate a trolling motor?
Most kayaks can be modified to accommodate a trolling motor, but it’s important to ensure that the kayak is compatible with the motor before making any modifications. It’s also important to ensure that the kayak is balanced and stable with the added weight of the motor.
What should I consider when choosing a kayak for use with a trolling motor?
When choosing a kayak for use with a trolling motor, it’s important to consider factors such as the size and weight of the kayak, the strength of the motor, and the conditions of the water you’ll be using it in. It’s also important to ensure that the kayak is stable and balanced with the added weight of the motor.