The Minn Kota Ulterra is a high-end trolling motor that aims to improve your fishing experience. We took it out on the water for thorough testing to see how it performs.
Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor Review
First Impressions
The Ulterra stands out with its solid build quality. The motor unit and mount are noticeably larger than previous Minn Kota models, hinting at the increased power and features packed into this trolling motor.
The auto stow/deploy feature catches the eye right away. For anglers who find it challenging to manually lower and raise heavy trolling motors, this could be a real help.
Installation
Setting up the Ulterra needs some planning, especially on smaller fishing kayaks. The mounting base is quite large, so it’s crucial to measure your available space before buying.
On our 12-foot fishing kayak, we just managed to fit it. If you’re replacing an existing trolling motor, installation is straightforward. The Ulterra uses standard mounting holes, so in many cases, you can simply bolt it on and connect the wiring. For new installations, you’ll need to drill holes and might want to reinforce the mounting area.
One small issue is that the included instructions could be clearer, especially for first-time installers. We found it helpful to watch some online videos for extra guidance.
Performance On The Water
The Ulterra’s performance on the water is where it really shines, offering a mix of power, control, and useful features that set it apart from many other options.
Power and Speed
We tested the 80 lb thrust, 24-volt version of the Ulterra. On our fishing kayak, it provided plenty of power for most situations. At full speed, we clocked about 3.5 nautical miles per hour in calm conditions. This is pretty good for a trolling motor and lets you move quickly when needed.
The speed control is smooth and responsive, allowing for precise adjustments. The Digital Maximizer technology seems to work well, helping to extend battery life.
Steering and Control
The Ulterra steers quickly and accurately. The motor responds right away to commands from the remote or foot pedal, making it easy to move around obstacles or follow a shoreline.
The included i-Pilot GPS system adds another layer of control. Features like Spot-Lock (which holds your position) and iTracks (for setting paths) work well. We found Spot-Lock could keep us within about 5 feet of a spot, even with some wind and current.
Auto Stow/Deploy
This is probably Ulterra’s standout feature, and it works as advertised. With just a button press, the motor smoothly lowers or raises itself. This is not only convenient but also adds some safety, especially when launching or retrieving your fishing kayak on your own.
The auto-trim function is another nice touch, letting you adjust the motor depth without having to push it down or pull it up manually.
Noise Level
The Ulterra is surprisingly quiet, especially at lower speeds. Even at full power, it only makes a low hum that’s unlikely to scare fish away. This is a big improvement over older trolling motor models.
Features And Technology
The Ulterra comes with advanced features that make it easier to use. From remote control operation to GPS-guided navigation, these technologies set it apart from simpler trolling motors.
Remote Control
The included remote is well-designed and easy to use. All the main functions are easy to access, and the screen is clear and readable even in bright sunlight. The remote’s range is good – we could control the motor from anywhere on our fishing kayak without issues.
Foot Pedal
For those who prefer traditional control, the included foot pedal works well. It offers precise speed and steering control and has buttons for main functions like Spot-Lock and auto stow/deploy.
i-Pilot System
The i-Pilot GPS system is a powerful addition to the Ulterra. Key features include:
- Spot-Lock: Holds your position quite accurately.
- iTracks: Lets you record and retrace paths, great for following a good fishing line.
- AutoPilot: Keeps a constant heading, adjusting for wind and current.
- Cruise Control: Maintains a constant speed, useful for trolling.
These features work well together and add a lot of value to the overall package.
Sonar Compatibility
Our test unit came with Universal Sonar 2, which works with many fish finders. The built-in transducer means you don’t need extra wiring, keeping your fishing kayak neater and more organized.
Durability And Reliability
After several weeks of testing, the Ulterra has held up well. It feels solid, and all parts continue to work smoothly. However, we’ve heard that older Ulterra models had some reliability issues, particularly with the auto stow/deploy mechanism. Only long-term use will show if these issues have been fixed in the latest version.
The shaft seems resistant to bending or breaking, even when we accidentally hit underwater objects. The prop did a good job of clearing weeds without losing power.
Battery Life
With the 24-volt system, we consistently got full days of fishing (8-10 hours) without running out of power. This was with regular use of the motor, including frequent use of Spot-Lock. The Digital Maximizer technology seems to help save power.
Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful and quiet operation | High price |
| Auto stow/deploy feature | Large mounting base |
| Good GPS features (Spot-Lock, iTracks) | Possible reliability concerns based on older models |
| Easy-to-use remote control | Might be too complex for casual anglers |
| Efficient power usage | Needs a good-sized battery |
| Precise steering and control | Might need professional installation |
| Sturdy construction | Some users report issues with the mobile app |
Value for Money
At around $3,000, the Minn Kota Ulterra is a big investment. For serious anglers who spend a lot of time on the water, the advanced features and convenience might justify the cost. The auto stow/deploy feature alone can be a big help for solo anglers or those with physical limitations.
However, weekend fishermen might find it hard to justify the expense. There are cheaper options available that provide basic trolling motor functions without all the extra features.
Comparison to Competitors
The Ulterra’s main competition comes from other high-end trolling motors like the MotorGuide Xi5 and Lowrance Ghost. While these competitors offer similar GPS-based features, none currently have the auto stow/deploy capability.
The Ulterra generally performs better than its competitors in terms of power and control precision. However, some anglers prefer the simpler, potentially more reliable designs of less feature-rich motors.
User Experience
Using the Ulterra is generally enjoyable. The combination of the remote control, foot pedal, and smartphone app (when it works correctly) gives you flexibility in how you control the motor. The auto stow/deploy feature is particularly helpful when launching or retrieving the fishing kayak alone.
The Spot-Lock feature stands out in real-world use. Being able to hold position over a good fishing spot without constantly adjusting the motor or dropping an anchor is very convenient.
One small annoyance is the size of the remote. While it’s well-designed, it’s a bit bulky to keep in a pocket while fishing. A smaller, simpler remote option would be a nice addition.
Who Should Buy the Minn Kota Ulterra?
The Ulterra is best suited for serious anglers who spend a lot of time on the water and like advanced technology. It’s particularly useful for those who often fish alone and can benefit from the auto stow/deploy feature.
The Ulterra is good for:
- Serious anglers who spend a lot of time fishing
- Those who often fish alone and like the auto stow/deploy feature
- Anglers with larger fishing kayaks that need more power
- Tech-savvy users who will use the advanced GPS features
- Those with physical limitations who find manual trolling motors difficult to use
It might not be the best choice for:
- Casual weekend anglers
- Those on a tight budget
- Anglers with very small fishing kayaks where space is limited
- Users who prefer simpler, more basic systems
Final Thoughts
The Minn Kota Ulterra is an impressive piece of fishing gear that mostly delivers on its promises. The auto stow/deploy feature, powerful motor, and advanced GPS capabilities make it stand out from the competition. For many anglers, these features will make their time on the water more enjoyable and efficient.
However, the high price and potential reliability concerns (based on older models) are important to consider. While our testing period went smoothly, only long-term use will show the Ulterra’s true durability.
For those who can afford it and will use its advanced features, the Ulterra represents some of the best current trolling motor technology. It’s not just a motor; it’s a comprehensive control system that can enhance your fishing experience.
Yet, it’s important to remember that at its core, fishing is about the connection between the angler, the water, and the fish. While the Ulterra can certainly make some aspects of fishing easier and more efficient, it’s not a guarantee of better fishing. It’s a tool – albeit a very advanced one – that still requires skill and knowledge to use effectively.
In the end, the decision to buy an Ulterra should be based on your specific needs, fishing style, and budget. For many, it might be more than necessary. But for those who want the latest technology in their fishing gear, the Minn Kota Ulterra is currently one of the top choices.