Fishing in saltwater can be a real challenge. The constant rocking of waves and strong currents can make it hard to stay in one spot. This is where a saltwater trolling motor comes in handy for your fishing kayak.
These electric trolling motors are built to withstand the harsh saltwater environment. They help you move quietly through the water without scaring away fish. With a saltwater trolling motor, you can focus on fishing instead of paddling.
Jump Straight To Saltwater Trolling Motors
Many anglers are now choosing saltwater trolling motors for their fishing kayaks. These motors offer better control and allow you to cover more water. They’re powered by lithium batteries, which last longer than traditional ones.
Saltwater trolling motors come in different sizes and strengths. Some are perfect for small fishing kayaks, while others can power larger kayaks. They’re easy to use and can make your fishing trips more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best saltwater trolling motors for fishing kayaks. We’ll help you find the right one for your needs and budget.
Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust
The Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust saltwater trolling motor stands out as a top choice for fishing kayak enthusiasts. This motor packs a punch with its 55 pounds of thrust, making it suitable for various kayak sizes and water conditions.
During our tests, we found the Newport Vessels Kayak Series to be remarkably quiet, allowing for stealthy approaches to fishing spots. Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb ‘s power impressed us, easily propelling a fully loaded fishing kayak through choppy waters. We covered significant distances without draining the battery, thanks to its efficient power consumption.
The Newport Vessels Kayak Series offers five forward speeds and three reverse speeds, providing excellent control for different fishing situations. The variable speed control is smooth, allowing for precise maneuvering when needed.
One of the standout features is Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb’s durability. Built to withstand saltwater environments, the Newport Vessels Kayak Series resists corrosion well. The shaft is made of composite materials, adding to its longevity in harsh conditions.
We appreciated the LED battery meter on the motor head, though it’s worth noting that it’s not always 100% accurate. For more precise readings, we recommend using a separate battery meter.
Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb ‘s weight might be a concern for some kayakers, especially when side-mounting. However, when placed on the stern, it balances well with batteries stored in the bow. The Newport Vessels Kayak Series is particularly suited for anglers with larger fishing kayaks or those who prioritize power over ultra-light setups.
Installation is straightforward, but some users might need to make modifications based on their specific kayak model. The tilt mechanism, while functional, could be more robust. It’s adequate for most uses but might wear over time with heavy use.
Here’s a quick pros and cons table:
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful 55lb thrust | Relatively heavy for some kayaks |
| Quiet operation | Tilt mechanism could be sturdier |
| Efficient battery usage | LED battery meter not always accurate |
| Durable in saltwater | May require modifications for some kayaks |
| Multiple speed options |
The Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust is ideal for serious kayak anglers who fish in various water conditions, including saltwater environments. It’s a solid choice for those who need reliable power and don’t mind a bit of extra weight for improved performance.
While not perfect, the Newport Vessels Kayak Series offers excellent value for its price point. It combines power, durability, and efficiency in a package that meets the needs of most kayak fishing enthusiasts.
Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova stands out as a top-tier saltwater trolling motor for fishing kayaks, particularly as a bow mount option. This 55lbs thrust saltwater trolling motor impressed us with its advanced features and robust performance in various marine conditions, making it an excellent choice for anglers seeking a reliable bow mount saltwater trolling motor.
The Riptide Terrova’s standout feature is its i-Pilot GPS system, a key component of this advanced 55lbs thrust saltwater trolling motor. This technology allows for precise boat control, including the Spot-Lock function, which is especially valuable in a bow mount configuration. We found this particularly useful when trying to hold position over a productive fishing spot. The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova, as a 55lbs thrust bow mount saltwater trolling motor, kept our kayak steady even in choppy waters, showcasing its ability to maintain position in challenging conditions.
Power is another strong suit of this bow mount saltwater trolling motor. With 55lbs thrust, the Riptide Terrova easily propelled our fully-loaded fishing kayak. The Digital Maximizer technology impressed us with its efficient power management, extending our time on the water significantly and demonstrating the energy efficiency of this 55lbs thrust saltwater trolling motor.
We appreciated the Terrova’s corrosion-resistant design, a crucial feature for any bow mount saltwater trolling motor. The grit-blasted, aluminum-coated, and powder-painted lower unit of this 55lbs thrust model held up well against saltwater exposure during our extended testing period, proving the durability of this saltwater trolling motor.
The AutoPilot feature of this bow mount saltwater trolling motor proved invaluable for longer trips. It maintained our heading automatically, compensating for wind and currents. This allowed us to cover more water with less effort, enhancing our overall fishing experience and showcasing the advanced capabilities of this 55lbs thrust saltwater trolling motor.
One minor drawback we noticed was the plastic depth-adjustment knob, which felt less durable compared to the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova’s overall build quality. However, this didn’t significantly impact the performance of this bow mount 55lbs thrust saltwater trolling motor.
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced GPS features (Spot-Lock, AutoPilot) | Higher price point |
| Powerful and efficient | Plastic depth-adjustment knob |
| Excellent corrosion resistance | May be overkill for casual anglers |
| Long battery life | Requires some technical know-how |
| Compatible with mobile app |
While the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova comes at a premium price, its advanced features and robust performance make it a worthwhile investment for dedicated saltwater kayak anglers who demand the best from their equipment.
MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor
The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater stands out as a versatile option for fishing kayak enthusiasts. During our testing, we found its compact design and lightweight construction particularly suitable for smaller vessels like kayaks. MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater’s corrosion-resistant materials held up well in saltwater environments, giving us confidence in its longevity.
One of the Xi3’s standout features is its wireless remote control. This allowed us to operate the motor from anywhere on the kayak, enhancing our fishing experience. The GPS anchor mode, while not perfect, proved useful in maintaining position in moderate conditions. However, we noticed some hunting in stronger currents or winds.
MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater’s quiet operation impressed us, allowing for stealthy approaches to fishing spots without disturbing the water. Its variable speed control offered smooth transitions, essential for precise maneuvering in tight spaces often encountered in kayak fishing.
We appreciated the Xi3’s efficient power consumption, which extended our time on the water. The LED dashboard on the mount provided easy monitoring of battery life and other key functions, a thoughtful feature for long fishing sessions.
The SecureStep system made deploying and stowing the motor a breeze, an important consideration for kayak anglers who frequently transition between paddling and motor use. However, we found MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater slightly heavier than some ultra-light kayak-specific options, which might be a concern for some users.
Here’s a quick pros and cons table:
| Pros | Cons |
| Wireless remote control | GPS anchor mode can hunt in strong conditions |
| Corrosion-resistant design | Heavier than some kayak-specific motors |
| Quiet operation | May be overkill for casual kayak anglers |
| Efficient power consumption | |
| Easy to deploy and stow |
The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater is best suited for serious kayak anglers who fish in various saltwater conditions and value advanced features. Its versatility shines in different environments, from calm bays to choppy coastal waters. While it may be more than casual users need, those who spend significant time kayak fishing in saltwater will appreciate its robust performance and feature set.
Despite some minor drawbacks, the Xi3 Saltwater proves to be a reliable and capable trolling motor for fishing kayaks. Its combination of advanced technology and durable construction makes it a solid choice for anglers looking to enhance their saltwater kayak fishing experience.
Garmin Force Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Garmin Force is a cutting-edge saltwater trolling motor that has revolutionized kayak fishing. This powerful Saltwater Trolling Motor offers impressive thrust options of 80 lbs at 24V or 100 lbs at 36V, delivered through an efficient brushless motor for quiet operation and extended battery life. Garmin Force Saltwater Trolling Motor’s versatile control system includes a wireless foot pedal, handheld remote with gesture steering, and integration with Garmin chartplotters.
Built specifically for saltwater environments, the Garmin Force features corrosion-resistant materials and construction, ensuring durability in harsh marine conditions. It incorporates advanced technology such as GPS-enabled Spot-Lock for precise position holding, integrated CHIRP sonar, and wireless connectivity for seamless navigation and autopilot functions.
Key features of this saltwater trolling motor include:
- Powerful brushless motor with high thrust options
- Multiple control options for versatile operation
- Advanced GPS and sonar integration
- Excellent corrosion resistance for saltwater use
- Long battery life and efficient power consumption
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful and efficient brushless motor | Higher price point |
| Advanced GPS and sonar integration | Heavier than some competing models |
| Multiple control options | Learning curve for advanced features |
| Excellent corrosion resistance | May be overkill for casual anglers |
| Long battery life | Requires compatible Garmin electronics for full functionality |
The Garmin Force saltwater trolling motor is ideal for serious anglers who demand top performance in challenging marine environments. While it comes at a premium price, its advanced features and robust performance make it a worthwhile investment for dedicated saltwater kayak fishing enthusiasts.
Minn Kota Powerdrive Spot Lock Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota Riptide Powerdrive is the best saltwater trolling motor with spot lock. Our testing revealed impressive performance and features tailored for serious kayak anglers seeking advanced GPS-enabled trolling capabilities.
The Spot-Lock GPS anchoring system is a standout feature of this saltwater trolling motor. This innovative GPS-based function maintained our kayak’s position with remarkable precision, even in challenging conditions with winds up to 25 mph and strong tides. The Spot-Lock technology allows anglers to stay fixed on productive fishing spots without constant manual adjustments, enhancing the overall fishing experience.
Another noteworthy GPS feature is the autopilot function, which significantly simplifies navigation. We could set a course and focus more on fishing rather than constantly steering. This GPS-guided trolling capability is particularly valuable when covering extensive water areas or during trolling sessions.
The Riptide Powerdrive’s power and efficiency are notable strengths. This saltwater trolling motor effortlessly propelled our larger fishing kayak, even when fully loaded with gear. The variable speed control offered smooth transitions, though we observed some increased noise at higher settings.
Built for saltwater environments, the corrosion-resistant construction of this trolling motor held up well during our marine tests, instilling confidence in its long-term durability. However, we recommend rinsing after each use to maximize its lifespan in saltwater conditions.
Here’s a quick pros and cons table:
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent Spot-Lock GPS anchoring | Higher price point |
| Effective autopilot feature | Some noise at highest speeds |
| Powerful and efficient | Learning curve for some features |
| Durable saltwater construction | May be overkill for smaller kayaks |
| Wireless control options |
The Minn Kota Riptide Powerdrive is the best saltwater trolling motor with spot lock. Especially for serious kayak anglers who fish in larger bodies of saltwater and value advanced features. Its combination of power, precision control, and durability make it a top choice for those willing to invest in a premium saltwater trolling motor for their fishing kayak.
Watersnake T18 ASP Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Watersnake T18 ASP stands out as a compact and lightweight option for fishing kayaks, particularly suited for anglers who prioritize portability. During our testing, we found the Watersnake T18 ASP’s 18 lbs of thrust adequate for most small fishing kayaks and inflatable boats in calm to moderate conditions.
One of the key advantages of the Watersnake T18 ASP is its incredibly light weight at just 4.85 lbs. This makes the Watersnake T18 ASP easy to transport and install, which is ideal for kayak anglers who frequently move between different fishing spots. The 24-inch shaft length is suitable for most kayak setups, though some users may need to shorten it for optimal performance.
The Watersnake T18 ASP offers basic but functional controls with high and low speed settings, as well as forward and reverse options. While not as sophisticated as some higher-end models, this simplicity contributes to the Watersnake T18 ASP’s reliability and ease of use. The extendable tiller handle allows for comfortable operation from various positions in the kayak.
We appreciated the Watersnake T18 ASP’s quiet operation, which is crucial for stealthy approaches to fishing spots. The 2-blade propeller design performed reasonably well, though some users reported issues with weeds and suggested improvements could be made in this area.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The mounting bracket received mixed reviews, with some users reporting issues with stability and durability. We found that careful installation and occasional adjustments were necessary to maintain a secure fit. Some users also mentioned the need for modifications or additional components for optimal performance.
The Watersnake T18 ASP’s power, while sufficient for calm waters and light currents, may struggle in more challenging conditions. It’s best suited for anglers who fish in protected waters or those who don’t require high speeds.
Here’s a quick pros and cons table:
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely lightweight and portable | Limited power for larger kayaks or strong currents |
| Simple, easy-to-use controls | Basic speed control (only high/low settings) |
| Quiet operation | Mounting bracket may require adjustments |
| Affordable price point | Not suitable for extended trips or heavy loads |
| Compact design ideal for kayaks | Some users reported durability concerns |
The Watersnake T18 ASP is ideal for kayak anglers who prioritize portability and simplicity, and who primarily fish in calm to moderate conditions. The Watersnake T18 ASP is particularly well-suited for those who frequently transport their kayaks or fish in different locations. While the Watersnake T18 ASP may not offer the advanced features of more expensive models, its combination of lightweight design, adequate power, and affordable price make it a solid choice for many recreational kayak anglers looking for a compact saltwater trolling motor.
| Model | Thrust | Shaft Length | Control | Battery | Weight |
| Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb | 55 lbs | 24″ | Tiller | 12V | 23 lbs |
| Minn Kota Riptide Terrova | 55-80 lbs | 45″-60″ | Remote/Foot | 12V/24V/36V | 56-65 lbs |
| MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater | 55-70 lbs | 48″-60″ | Remote/Foot | 12V/24V | 47-52 lbs |
| Garmin Force | 80-100 lbs | Not specified | Remote/Foot/Gesture | 24V/36V | Not specified |
| Minn Kota Riptide Powerdrive | 55-70 lbs | 48″-60″ | Remote/Foot | 12V/24V | 56-61 lbs |
| Watersnake T18 ASP | 18 lbs | 24″ | Tiller | 12V | 4.85 lbs |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much thrust do I need for my fishing kayak?
For most fishing kayaks, a trolling motor with 30-55 lbs of thrust is sufficient. The exact thrust needed depends on your kayak’s size, weight, and the water conditions you typically encounter. Heavier kayaks or those used in strong currents may require more thrust.
What’s the difference between a transom mount and a bow mount trolling motor?
Transom mount motors attach to the rear of the kayak and are generally easier to install. Bow mount motors attach to the front and offer better control and maneuverability, but may require more complex installation.
How long will a trolling motor battery last?
Battery life depends on factors like motor power, usage intensity, and battery capacity. On average, a fully charged 12V deep cycle battery can last 4-8 hours of continuous use at moderate speeds. Using the motor intermittently can extend this time significantly.
Do I need to register my kayak if I add a trolling motor?
In most cases, yes. Adding a motor to your kayak typically classifies it as a motorized vessel, requiring registration in most states. Check your local regulations for specific requirements.
How do I maintain my saltwater trolling motor?
Regular maintenance includes rinsing with fresh water after each use, checking and tightening connections, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting the propeller for damage. Store the motor in a dry place when not in use.
Can I use a lithium battery with my saltwater trolling motor?
Yes, lithium batteries are becoming increasingly popular for trolling motors due to their lighter weight and longer lifespan. However, ensure your motor is compatible with lithium batteries and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
How fast can a kayak go with a trolling motor?
Most kayaks equipped with trolling motors can reach speeds of 3-5 mph. However, speed depends on factors like kayak design, motor power, and water conditions.
Is it difficult to install a trolling motor on a fishing kayak?
Installation difficulty varies depending on your kayak and the motor type. Many kayaks now come “motor-ready” with pre-installed mounts. For others, you may need to purchase or create a custom mounting system. Some anglers prefer professional installation for more complex setups.
Are saltwater trolling motors waterproof?
While saltwater trolling motors are designed to be water-resistant, they are not fully waterproof. The motor head should be kept above water at all times. Some models offer additional waterproofing features, but it’s always best to avoid submerging the motor completely.