Saltwater fishing challenges kayakers with waves and currents. A saltwater trolling motor solves this problem, keeping their fishing kayak positioned effectively. These electric trolling motors resist harsh saltwater. They move kayakers quietly, preventing spooked fish. Anglers focus on fishing, not paddling.
Many anglers now choose saltwater trolling motors for kayak fishing. These kayak motors provide superior control and cover more water. Lithium batteries power them, lasting longer than traditional options. Saltwater trolling motors vary in size and thrust. Some suit small fishing kayaks; others handle larger kayaks. This guide explores the best saltwater trolling motors for fishing kayaks, helping anglers select the right trolling motor system for their needs and budget.
Choose the best Saltwater Trolling Motor
- Kayak Shaft: 24-Inch Fiberglass Shaft Allows For Variable Depth Placement, While Offering A Lifetime Of Dependable Perfo…
- Variable Speed: 8 Speeds (5 Forward & 3 Reverse) With 6-Inch Telescoping Handle Puts You In Total Control Of Your Ride
- Saltwater Rated: Durable All Aluminum Motor Head W/ Corrosion Resistant Magnesium, Zinc, And Stainless-Steel Hardware Fo…
Newport Vessels Kayak Series Saltwater Trolling Motor
For anglers targeting saltwater environments, the Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Trolling Motor stands out as a purpose-built powerhouse. Designed explicitly for fishing kayaks, it combines a corrosion-resistant aluminum motor head with magnesium, zinc, and stainless-steel hardware to withstand harsh saltwater conditions.
Its compact 24-inch fiberglass shaft adjusts for optimal depth placement, while the 3-blade propeller balances thrust and efficiency, reaching speeds up to 5–7 mph depending on load.
Specifications of Newport Vessels Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Category | Specifications |
| Thrust | 55 lbs (0.83 HP equivalent) |
| Voltage | 12V DC (Requires one 12V deep-cycle marine battery, not included) |
| Shaft | 24-inch fiberglass (adjustable depth) |
| Speeds | 8-speed control: 5 forward, 3 reverse |
| Weight | 23 lbs |
| Propeller | 3-blade design (optimized for efficiency/thrust) |
| Battery Meter | 5-point LED indicator |
| Handle | 6-inch telescoping tiller |
| Battery Cables | 5.5 feet (flexible placement for kayak stability) |
| Water Use | Saltwater & freshwater (corrosion-resistant aluminum motor head with magnesium, zinc, stainless steel hardware) |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
| Mount Type | Transom mount (kayak/canoe compatible) |
| Circuit Breaker | Included 60A breaker |
Features of Newport Vessels Saltwater Trolling Motor
Power & Propulsion
Delivering 55lbs of thrust (equivalent to 0.83 HP), this motor efficiently propels kayaks at speeds of 5–7 mph, depending on load and water conditions. Its 3-blade propeller optimizes thrust and efficiency while minimizing drag, making it ideal for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Saltwater Durability
Engineered for harsh marine use, the motor features a corrosion-resistant aluminum head with magnesium, zinc, and stainless-steel hardware. This design withstands saltwater exposure but requires rinsing with freshwater after each use to prevent long-term damage.
Kayak-Optimized Design
A compact 24-inch fiberglass shaft ensures ideal depth placement for shallow-water fishing, while the transom mount suits most kayaks and canoes. Weighing 23 lbs, it balances portability and stability for medium to large kayaks.
Precision Control
Users get 8-speed options (5 forward, 3 reverse) via a 6-inch telescoping tiller handle, enabling responsive maneuvering in currents or tight spots. The ultra-quiet operation ensures a stealthy approach to fishing grounds.
Battery & Runtime
Powered by a 12V deep-cycle marine battery (not included; min. 50Ah recommended), it includes 5.5-foot battery cables for flexible placement and a 5-LED charge indicator to monitor power levels. Note: Lithium batteries are incompatible due to voltage calibration issues.
Safety & Extras
A built-in 60A circuit breaker protects against electrical surges, and the package includes installation hardware (propeller pin, wrench, washer, and nut) plus a 2-year warranty.
Maintenance Tips
After saltwater use, rinse the motor thoroughly and store it indoors (e.g., garage, shed). Avoid winter storage in freezing temperatures, and check the propeller for debris before reuse.
- Stow/Deploy Lever: Press this lever on the mount and fall-away ramps will effortlessly slide your trolling motor into th…
- Advanced Corrosion Protection: Riptide motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted, then coated in aluminum to prevent ox…
- Advanced GPS Trolling System: The most-trusted navigation system in fishing. Riptide Terrova uses GPS to control your tr…
Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor
Kayak anglers targeting saltwater species demand relentless reliability and precision boat control, qualities the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Bow-Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor delivers uncompromisingly. Designed explicitly for marine environments, this electric motor integrates advanced corrosion protection through grit-blasted aluminum housing.
Its standout Spot-Lock GPS technology revolutionizes fishing efficiency, locking the kayak onto productive coordinates with satellite accuracy and allowing micro-adjustments via “Jog” shifts. Anglers deploy the Drift Mode to maintain consistent speed and course in wind or current, eliminating reliance on drift socks or manual corrections.
Specifications of Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Specifications | Details |
| Thrust Options | 55 lb (12V), 80 lb (24V), 112 lb (36V) |
| Shaft Lengths | 55 lb: 54″, 60″ 80 lb: 54″, 60″, 72″ 112 lb: 60″, 72″ |
| Voltage | 12V (55 lb), 24V (80 lb), 36V (112 lb) |
| Weight | 46–82 lbs (varies by shaft/thrust) |
| Control System | Advanced GPS Wireless Remote (included) One-Boat Network App (iOS/Android) Humminbird Fishfinder Integration Foot Pedal (optional, sold separately) |
| Power Requirements | 55 lb: 1x 12V marine battery (min 50Ah) 80 lb: 2x 12V or 1x 24V LiFePO4 112 lb: 3x 12V or 1x 36V LiFePO4 Max Amperage Draw: 56A |
| Warranty | 2 years (extends to 3 years with registration); composite shaft lifetime guarantee |
Features of Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Saltwater Trolling Motor
Advanced Corrosion Protection
The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova is engineered for harsh saltwater environments with grit-blasted aluminum housing and a triple-layer defense system. This includes an aluminum anti-oxidation coating topped by a rugged powder-coat finish, ensuring critical components resist rust and degradation. The composite shaft, backed by a lifetime guarantee, adds further durability against impacts and salt exposure.
GPS Precision & Autopilot Features
Equipped with Advanced GPS technology, this motor offers unrivaled boat control. Its Spot-Lock function locks onto fishing coordinates via satellite accuracy, while the Jog feature enables micro-adjustments in 5-foot increments. Drift Mode maintains consistent speed and heading in wind or currents, eliminating drift socks.
Effortless Stow/Deploy System
A lever-activated mechanism simplifies lowering and raising the motor. Weight distribution acts like a pendulum to reduce physical strain, while Auto-Park aligns the lower unit automatically for seamless stowing. This design is notably smoother than Minn Kota’s entry-level PowerDrive series.
Digital Maximizer & Battery Efficiency
The Digital Maximizer technology modulates power output based on speed demands, extending battery runtime by up to 5× compared to conventional motors. Integrated real-time battery monitoring alerts users at 20% capacity and suggests eco-modes. The 12V/55lb model draws 50A at full throttle, while the 24V/80lb version uses 56A, both optimized for marine batteries or LiFePO4 alternatives.
Wireless Control & One-Boat Network
Included full-size LCD remotes and Bluetooth smartphone apps (iOS/Android) enable wireless speed/steering adjustments. The motor integrates with Humminbird fish finders via One-Boat Network, allowing control through fish-finder screens or the app. Ethernet cables and adapters are bundled for plug-and-play networking.
Weedless Wedge 2 Propeller
Featuring swept-back, flared blades, this prop minimizes snags in vegetation and reduces power-draining “chopping.” Its design ensures efficient thrust delivery in weedy or debris-heavy waters, enhancing battery conservation.
Kayak-Specific Adaptability
Available in 55lb (12V), 80lb (24V), and 112lb (36V) thrust options, with shaft lengths from 54″ to 87″. Kayak anglers prioritize the 54″–60″ shafts; some retailers offer custom 36″ cuts for compact vessels. The 55lb thrust suits kayaks under 16′, while 80lb handles heavier setups (up to 4,000 lbs). Quick-release brackets (e.g., RTA-17) facilitate easy mounting/dismounting.
- Wireless remote control lets you precisely operate the motor from anywhere on the boat
- Innovative mount features easy-to-read LED dashboard that lets you quickly check the status of four key functions in any…
- Efficient motor provides best-in-class quiet operation that’s up to 40 percent quieter than the leading competitor
MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor
Saltwater anglers require equipment engineered to endure harsh marine conditions while maintaining peak performance. The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Wireless Bow Mount Trolling Motor combines corrosion-resistant materials with advanced wireless technology to deliver precision control in demanding offshore environments. Built for durability, its sealed electronics and stainless-steel components resist saltwater degradation, while integrated GPS anchoring ensures stability against tides and currents.
Specifications of MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Specifications | Xi3-70 lbs | Xi3-55 lbs |
| Peak Thrust | 70 lbs | 55 lbs |
| Voltage | 24V | 12V |
| Shaft Length | 54 inches,60 inches | 36 inches |
| GPS Anchoring | With or without GPS | Pinpoint GPS included |
| Propeller | 3-blade Machete | 3-blade Machete III |
| Wireless Remote | Included | Included |
| SecureStep System | Yes | Yes |
| Max Amp Draw | 42 amps | 52 amps |
| Weight | 47 lbs | Not specified |
| Saltwater Durability | Stainless steel, sealed electronics | Corrosion-resistant design |
Features of MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Wireless Bow Mount Trolling Motor
The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater Wireless Bow Mount Trolling Motor combines ease of use with reliable performance. Its design focuses on durability, quiet operation, and convenient control, making it suitable for saltwater fishing environments. Here are the detailed features:
Wireless Freedom & Intuitive Control
The MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater model eliminates the need for tangled cords with its included wireless remote, allowing anglers to operate the motor from anywhere on the Kayak. This feature is standard, unlike competitors that require costly add-ons for wireless functionality.
Pinpoint GPS Anchoring & Navigation
Equipped with integrated Pinpoint GPS, the MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater locks onto anchor points with triple the precision of traditional systems, even in tidal currents or windy conditions. Users can activate heading lock to maintain a fixed direction or record routes for retracing productive fishing paths.
Stealthy Operation for Uninterrupted Fishing
Designed to avoid spooking fish, the MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater operates 40% quieter than leading competitors. Its near-silent electric propulsion ensures stealth in shallow waters or during slow trolling, making it ideal for targeting wary species like redfish or snook.
Saltwater-Ready Durability
Built specifically for harsh marine environments, the MotorGuide Xi3 Saltwater features stainless steel components and sealed electronics to resist corrosion from saltwater exposure. The composite shaft and 3-blade Machete propeller are engineered to withstand abrasion from sand, oyster beds, and submerged debris.
- Garmin Force Kraken Trolling Motor Black 48″ Shaft with GT56UHD-TR
Garmin Force Kraken Bow Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Garmin Force Kraken 48-inch Bow Mount Trolling Motor combines 100 lbs of thrust, wireless control, and saltwater-ready durability in a compact design tailored for pontoon Kayaks and microskiffs. Its brushless motor ensures quiet, efficient operation, while GPS anchor lock and LiveScope integration provide pinpoint accuracy in currents or wind.
Built with corrosion-resistant materials and engineered to integrate seamlessly with Garmin’s ecosystem, this motor prioritizes power and precision for serious anglers.
Specifications of Garmin Force Kraken Bow Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Specifications | Garmin Force Kraken 48-inch |
| Thrust | 100 lbs (36V system) |
| Shaft Length | 48 inches |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Voltage Compatibility | 24V/36V |
| Anchor Lock | Multi-band GPS + AHRS stabilization |
| Sonar Integration | GT56UHD transducer (black models) + LiveScope compatibility |
| Control Options | Wireless remote, Garmin smartwatch, chartplotter |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Mounting | Pivot-style mount for limited bow space |
| Durability | Composite shaft, saltwater protection |
| Warranty | 3-year limited + lifetime shaft warranty |
Features of Garmin Force Kraken 48-Inch Bow Mount Trolling Motor
A compact, pro-grade motor for small Kayaks, prioritizing precision in tight waters. A strategic upgrade for anglers valuing niche engineering over universal appeal. Here are its standout features in detail:
Power and Maneuverability for Compact Vessels
The Garmin Force Kraken 48-inch model is engineered specifically for smaller Kayaks, such as pontoons and microskiffs, where space and weight constraints matter. Its compact pivot-style mount simplifies installation on tight bows, while the dual-voltage system (24V/36V) delivers up to 100 lbs of thrust.
Advanced Positioning Technology
Garmin’s multi-band GPS and attitude/heading reference system (AHRS) work in tandem to stabilize the motor in challenging conditions. Whether anchoring in wind or maintaining position over a reef, the Kraken adjusts thrust direction and intensity automatically.
Wireless Control and Customization
Operators can manage the Kraken through multiple interfaces: a waterproof wireless remote, Garmin chartplotters, or even quatix smartwatches. The system supports gesture-based steering, route-following, and autopilot modes, reducing manual adjustments during precision tasks like drift fishing. A unique floating remote adds redundancy, ensuring control isn’t lost if devices are dropped overboard.
Saltwater-Ready Construction
Built for harsh environments, the motor features a composite shaft and corrosion-resistant alloys to withstand prolonged saltwater exposure. Sealed electronics and an IPX8 waterproof rating protect against submersion, while the weedless propeller design minimizes snags in heavy vegetation.
- Deploy-Assist Lever: Get in and out of the water easily. Just depress the lever to deploy your trolling motor and when i…
- Advanced GPS Trolling System: The most-trusted navigation system in fishing. Powerdrive uses GPS to control your trollin…
- Push-to-Test Battery Meter: Press a button to get an instant “stage of charge” reading.
Minn Kota PowerDrive Spot Lock Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota PowerDrive Saltwater Trolling Motor delivers exceptional GPS-powered control for kayak anglers battling dynamic saltwater environments. Its Spot-Lock technology acts as a digital anchor, locking the kayak within 2-5 feet of marked fishing spots even in winds or currents, eliminating manual anchoring and maximizing fishing time.
Engineered for corrosion resistance, the motor features an aluminum lower unit and a composite shaft backed by a lifetime guarantee. The 55 lb thrust Power Prop tackles open-water conditions, while the Digital Maximizer system extends battery runtime up to 5× by modulating power output.
Key Specifications of Minn Kota PowerDrive Spot Lock Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Features | Specifications |
| Thrust | 55 lb |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Shaft Length | 54 inches |
| Control System | Wireless Micro Remote (included) |
| GPS Technology | Spot-Lock (holds position within 2-5 ft), AutoPilot |
| Battery Efficiency | Digital Maximizer (up to 5× longer runtime) |
| Corrosion Protection | Triple-layer defense: grit-blasted + aluminum coating + powder paint |
| Propeller | Power Prop (MKP-37) for open-water performance |
| Shaft Material | Indestructible Composite (lifetime warranty) |
| Weight | 44 lbs (20 kg) |
| Mounting | Bow-mount, bolt-on |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Features of Minn Kota PowerDrive Spot Lock Saltwater Trolling Motor
GPS Spot-Lock Anchoring
The Minn Kota PowerDrive’s Spot-Lock technology acts as a digital anchor, locking your kayak within 2–5 feet of a marked fishing spot using GPS precision. This feature combats wind, currents, and tides, eliminating manual anchoring and freeing hands for casting. Dedicated buttons on the wireless remote or Minn Kota app ensure instant activation from anywhere in the kayak.
Advanced Corrosion Protection
Engineered for saltwater durability, Riptide PowerDrive models feature triple-layer defense: grit-blasted housing, aluminum anti-oxidation coating, and powder paint finish. This shields critical components from rust and salt damage, while the indestructible composite shaft carries a lifetime warranty against breakage.
Digital Maximizer Efficiency
The Digital Maximizer system modulates power output based on speed demands, extending battery runtime up to 5× compared to conventional motors. Combined with a push-to-test battery meter, kayak anglers can monitor charge levels and optimize energy use for all-day fishing.
Wireless Control Options
Micro Remote: Compact, waterproof, and lanyard-compatible for neck wear. Controls speed, steering, Spot-Lock, and AutoPilot.
Advanced Wireless Remote: Adds an LCD screen, programmable waypoints, and enhanced navigation (e.g., Drift Mode for path tracking).
Note: Foot pedals are incompatible with GPS-enabled models.
Kayak-Optimized Design
Thrust & Voltage: 55 lb (12V) for smaller kayaks; 70 lb (24V) for larger/heavier craft.
Shaft Length: 54″ standard, ideal for deep-water stability.
Weight: 40–44 lbs, balanced for kayak portability.
Deploy-Assist Lever: Enables one-handed deployment/stowing.
Networking & Sonar Integration
Performance & Propulsion
The Power Prop (MKP-37) delivers optimized thrust for open-water conditions, while quiet operation prevents fish spooking. Electric steering ensures smooth directional changes, and variable speed allows precise speed calibration.
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Watersnake T18 ASP Saltwater Trolling Motor
The Watersnake T18 ASP Saltwater Trolling Motor delivers compact, budget-friendly propulsion for kayak anglers. Weighing just 4.85 lbs, this 12V motor generates 18 lbs of thrust—sufficient for maneuvering kayaks, canoes, or small inflatables in protected saltwater bays and estuaries.
Its 24-inch shaft and integrated kayak bracket simplify transom-mount installation, while the adjustable hand tiller, extendable handle, and 2-speed forward/reverse controls ensure intuitive operation. The aluminum construction and weedless propeller enhance durability in marine environments, though users must rinse them thoroughly after saltwater use to prevent corrosion.
Specifications of Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor
| Features | Specifications |
| Thrust | 18 lbs (8.16 kg) |
| Voltage | 12V DC |
| Shaft Length | 24 inches (61 cm) |
| Weight | 4.85 lbs (2.2 kg) motor only; 10.48 lbs (4.75 kg) shipping weight |
| Dimensions | 13.75″D × 6.75″W × 34″H (35 cm × 17 cm × 86 cm) |
| Material | Aluminum body with stainless steel propeller shaft |
| Mount Type | Transom mount (kayak bracket included) |
| Propeller | 2-blade weedless design |
| Controls | Hand tiller with extendable handle; 2-speed (high/low), forward/reverse switch |
| Compatibility | Kayaks, canoes, inflatable boats, small dinghies ≤ 500 kg |
| Battery | Not included; requires 12V deep-cycle lead-acid or LiFePO4 battery |
| Warranty | 1-year limited manufacturer warranty |
Features of Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor
Compact & Lightweight Design
Weighing just 4.85 lbs (2.2 kg), the Watersnake T18 ASP is engineered for effortless portability and kayak compatibility. Its aluminum body and streamlined build minimize bulk without sacrificing durability, making it ideal for anglers prioritizing easy transport and storage.
Saltwater-Ready Construction
Designed for both freshwater and saltwater use, this motor features a stainless steel propeller shaft, corrosion-resistant aluminum housing, and a sacrificial anode to protect against electrolytic damage. The encapsulated electrical circuits further enhance resilience in marine environments, though thorough rinsing after saltwater exposure is recommended.
Kayak-Optimized Mounting
Included with the motor, the heavy-duty nylon kayak bracket allows quick transom attachment and detachment. The 24-inch shaft ensures optimal propeller depth for kayaks and canoes, while an anti-impact clip system safeguards against underwater obstacles.
Simple Control System
Operators benefit from an extendable tiller handle with intuitive thumb controls: 2-speed settings (high/low) and forward/reverse switching. The low speed draws ~7A for efficient cruising, while high speed (~15A) provides bursts of power. The retractable handle adjusts for comfortable steering positions.
Weedless Propulsion
A two-blade weedless propeller minimizes snags in vegetated or rocky areas. Generating 18 lbs of thrust, it efficiently pushes kayaks or small dinghies (≤500 kg) at speeds of 3–5.5 km/h—sufficient for calm bays and estuaries.
Power & Compatibility
Running on a 12V deep-cycle battery (not included), the motor suits LiFePO4 or SLA batteries (≤100Ah). Its modest amp draw extends battery life, with runtime varying based on speed settings and water conditions.
FAQs About Saltwater Trolling Motors For Fishing Kayaks
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.
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.
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.