Gas trolling motors are changing the game for fishing kayaks. These powerful engines can transform your regular fishing kayak into a long-range fishing machine. Unlike electric motors, gas trolling motors for kayaks offer more power and can run for hours on a single tank of fuel.
In recent years, gas powered trolling motors for kayaks have seen big improvements. They’re now quieter, more fuel-efficient, and easier to use. Many new models are made just for fishing kayaks with trolling motors. This makes them a great choice for anglers who want to cover more water without losing the stealth of their kayak with gas motor.
Jump Straight To Best Trolling Motors
Picking the right gas trolling motor for kayak can really boost your fishing success. It’s not just about how much power it has. You also need to think about things like weight, noise, and how easy it is to use. The best fishing kayak with trolling motor will depend on what kind of fishing you do and what type of kayak motor gas setup you prefer.
This guide will show you some of the best gas powered trolling motors for kayak fishing. We’ll look at what makes each kayak gas motor special, what’s good about them, and what could be better. This will help you find the perfect gas trolling motor for canoe or kayak to match your fishing style.
Top 7 Gas Trolling Motors for Kayak
Gas trolling motors can significantly enhance your fishing kayak’s performance. Here are seven top-rated options that stand out for their power, reliability, and suitability for kayak fishing.
1. Honda Gas Trolling Motor
The Honda gas trolling motor is a compact powerhouse that’s perfect for fishing kayaks. This lightweight gas motor kayak engine packs a punch without weighing down your kayak.
Key features:
- Lightweight design at just 29 pounds
- 360-degree steering for excellent maneuverability
- Air-cooled system for consistent performance
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Honda gas trolling motor excels on fishing kayaks, providing smooth and quiet operation. Its compact size doesn’t interfere with casting or fish landing, while still offering enough power to navigate various water conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight design | Slightly more expensive than some competitors |
| 360-degree steering | May be overpowered for very small fishing kayaks |
| Air-cooled system | |
| Fuel-efficient operation | |
| Easy to start and operate | |
| Reliable performance in fresh and saltwater |
The Honda gas trolling motor’s combination of power, efficiency, and reliability makes it a top choice for kayak anglers looking to upgrade their fishing experience with a gas motor on kayak.
2. Suzuki Gas Trolling Motor
The Suzuki gas trolling motor is a compact and efficient powerhouse designed for fishing kayaks and small watercraft. This lightweight gas powered trolling motor offers reliable performance and easy operation, making it an excellent choice for kayak anglers looking to cover more water.
Key features:
- Lightweight design at 13.5 kg (29.8 lbs)
- OHV (Overhead Valve) engine for improved efficiency
- 68cc displacement
- Digital CDI ignition system for reliable starts
- F-N (Forward-Neutral) gear shift for easy control
- 360-degree steering for excellent maneuverability
- Integral 1.0L fuel tank
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Suzuki gas trolling motor excels on fishing kayaks, providing smooth and quiet operation. Its compact size doesn’t interfere with casting or fish landing, while still offering enough power to navigate various water conditions. The motor’s lightweight design ensures it doesn’t significantly affect the kayak’s balance or handling.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight and portable | Slightly louder than electric trolling motors |
| Excellent fuel efficiency | Requires regular maintenance |
| Easy to start and operate | May be overpowered for very small fishing kayaks |
| 360-degree steering | Higher initial cost compared to some electric options |
| No battery required | Fuel and oil need to be carried on board |
| Long run times on a single tank |
The Suzuki gas trolling motor’s combination of power, efficiency, and portability makes it a top choice for kayak anglers looking to upgrade their fishing experience with a gas powered trolling motor option.
3. Yamaha Gas Trolling Motor
The Yamaha gas trolling motor is a reliable and user-friendly option for fishing kayak enthusiasts. This compact gas powered trolling motor for kayak offers a good balance of power and portability, making it suitable for a wide range of kayak fishing applications.
Key features:
- 72cc displacement
- Single-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV design
- 2.5 horsepower output
- 360-degree steering capability
- Built-in fuel tank (0.9 liters)
- CDI ignition system for easy starts
- F-N (Forward-Neutral) gear shift
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Yamaha gas trolling motor performs admirably on fishing kayaks, offering smooth and quiet operation. Its lightweight design allows for easy mounting and dismounting, while the 360-degree steering provides excellent maneuverability in tight spots. The motor’s power output is sufficient for most kayak fishing scenarios, allowing anglers to cover significant distances with ease.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight and easy to transport | Slightly heavier than some competitors |
| Excellent fuel efficiency | Regular maintenance required |
| User-friendly controls | May be too powerful for very small kayaks |
| 360-degree steering | Higher initial cost than some electric options |
| No battery required | Fuel and oil need to be carried on board |
| Long run times on a single tank | |
| Quieter operation compared to some gas motors |
The Yamaha gas trolling motor’s combination of reliability, ease of use, and efficient performance makes it a popular choice among kayak anglers seeking a gas powered trolling motor solution for their fishing adventures.
4. Mercury Gas Trolling Motor
The Mercury gas trolling motor is a powerful and reliable option for fishing kayak enthusiasts looking for extra thrust. This gas trolling motor for kayak offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for a variety of kayak fishing scenarios.
Key features:
- 85cc displacement
- Single-cylinder, 4-stroke design
- 3.5 horsepower output
- 360-degree steering capability
- Integrated fuel tank (1.1 liters)
- CDI ignition system for quick starts
- F-N-R (Forward-Neutral-Reverse) gear shift
- Shallow water drive system
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Mercury gas trolling motor delivers impressive performance on fishing kayaks, providing ample power for navigating various water conditions. Its 360-degree steering allows for excellent maneuverability, while the shallow water drive system helps protect the propeller in low-depth areas.
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful 3.5 HP output | Heavier than lower HP models |
| Excellent fuel efficiency | Regular maintenance required |
| User-friendly controls | May be too powerful for smaller kayaks |
| 360-degree steering | Higher initial cost than some options |
| No battery required | Fuel and oil need to be carried on board |
| Long run times on a single tank | |
| Reverse gear for added versatility |
The Mercury gas trolling motor’s combination of power, efficiency, and versatility makes it an excellent choice for kayak anglers who need extra thrust for challenging conditions or larger fishing kayaks with trolling motor setups.
5. Tohatsu Gas Trolling Motor
The Tohatsu gas trolling motor is a robust and efficient option for fishing kayak enthusiasts seeking reliable performance. This gas powered trolling motor offers a good balance of power and portability, making it suitable for various kayak fishing applications.
Key features:
- 86cc displacement
- Single-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV design
- 3.5 horsepower output
- 360-degree steering capability
- Built-in fuel tank (1.5 liters)
- CDI ignition system for easy starts
- F-N-R (Forward-Neutral-Reverse) gear shift
- Shallow water drive position
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Tohatsu gas trolling motor performs exceptionally well on fishing kayaks, offering smooth operation and ample power. Its 360-degree steering provides excellent maneuverability in tight spots, while the shallow water drive position helps protect the propeller in low-depth areas.
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful 3.5 HP output | Heavier than lower HP models |
| Excellent fuel efficiency | Regular maintenance required |
| Easy-to-use controls | May be too powerful for very small kayaks |
| 360-degree steering | Higher initial cost than some electric options |
| No battery required | Fuel and oil need to be carried on board |
| Long run times on larger fuel tank | |
| Reverse gear for added versatility | |
| Known for durability and reliability |
The Tohatsu gas trolling motor’s combination of power, efficiency, and reliability makes it a popular choice among kayak anglers who need a versatile and dependable gas powered trolling motor solution for their fishing adventures.
6. Sea Eagle Gas Trolling Motor
The Sea Eagle gas trolling motor is a versatile and compact option designed specifically for inflatable boats and fishing kayaks. This gas powered trolling motor for kayak offers a good balance of power and portability, making it an excellent choice for kayak anglers who prioritize ease of transport and setup.
Key features:
- 2.5 horsepower output
- Air-cooled, 2-stroke engine
- Lightweight design (approximately 20 lbs)
- 360-degree steering capability
- Integrated fuel tank (1.2 liters)
- Easy-pull recoil starter
- Shallow water drive position
- Foldable tiller handle for compact storage
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Sea Eagle gas trolling motor performs admirably on fishing kayaks, offering smooth and quiet operation. Its lightweight design allows for easy mounting and dismounting, while the 360-degree steering provides excellent maneuverability in tight spots.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely lightweight and portable | Less powerful than some competitors |
| Easy to install and remove | 2-stroke engine requires oil mixing |
| Good fuel efficiency | May not be suitable for larger kayaks |
| 360-degree steering | Limited availability compared to major brands |
| No battery required | Regular maintenance required |
| Compact design for easy storage | |
| Suitable for inflatable kayaks |
The Sea Eagle gas trolling motor’s combination of portability, ease of use, and compact design makes it an attractive option for kayak anglers who frequently transport their gear or use inflatable kayaks with gas motor setups.
7. Coleman Powersports Gas Trolling Motor
The Coleman Powersports gas trolling motor is a robust and affordable option for fishing kayak enthusiasts. This gas powered trolling motor offers reliable performance and user-friendly features, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced kayak anglers.
Key features:
- 2.6 horsepower output
- 4-stroke OHV engine
- 53cc displacement
- 360-degree steering capability
- Built-in fuel tank (1.0 liter)
- CDI ignition system for easy starts
- F-N (Forward-Neutral) gear shift
- Vibration reduction system
Performance on fishing kayaks:
The Coleman Powersports gas trolling motor delivers solid performance on fishing kayaks, providing sufficient power for most fishing scenarios. Its 360-degree steering allows for good maneuverability, while the vibration reduction system ensures a smoother and quieter operation.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price point | Slightly heavier than some competitors |
| Good fuel efficiency | Limited brand recognition in marine motors |
| Easy-to-use controls | May lack some advanced features |
| 360-degree steering | Regular maintenance required |
| No battery required | Fuel needs to be carried on board |
| Vibration reduction for smoother operation | |
| Suitable for both fresh and saltwater use |
The Coleman Powersports gas trolling motor’s combination of affordability, reliable performance, and user-friendly features makes it a good choice for kayak anglers looking for a budget-friendly gas powered trolling motor option without sacrificing quality.
Electric vs. Gas Trolling Motors: Which is Right for Fishing Kayak?
Choosing between electric trolling motor vs gas depends on your specific needs and fishing style.
| Feature | Electric Trolling Motors | Gas Trolling Motors |
| Power Output | Lower power, suitable for smaller waters | Higher power, good for larger kayaks and challenging conditions |
| Weight | Lighter and more compact | Heavier due to engine and fuel tanks |
| Noise Level | Very quiet operation | Noisier, may spook fish |
| Fuel Efficiency | More efficient, uses rechargeable batteries | Requires fuel, but can run longer without refueling |
| Maintenance | Less maintenance required | Regular maintenance needed |
| Cost | Lower initial cost, but batteries can be expensive | Higher initial cost, but potentially lower long-term costs |
| Environmental Impact | No emissions, eco-friendly | Produces emissions |
| Run Time | Limited by battery life | Longer run times with fuel refills |
| Speed | Generally slower | Typically faster |
| Maneuverability | Excellent for precise control | Less precise, but more powerful |
Electric trolling motors are ideal for anglers who prioritize quiet operation, ease of use, and environmental friendliness. They’re perfect for freshwater fishing in calm conditions and shorter trips.
Gas trolling motors, on the other hand, offer more power and longer run times, making them suitable for larger kayaks, longer fishing trips, or challenging water conditions. However, they require more maintenance and produce noise and emissions.
Ultimately, the choice between electric vs gas trolling motor for your fishing kayak depends on your specific needs, fishing environment, and personal preferences. Consider factors such as the type of water you’ll be fishing in and the features you’re looking for in a kayak to make the best decision for your fishing style. Whether you choose a gas trolling motor for canoe or kayak, or opt for an electric model, both options can significantly enhance your fishing experience.