The Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer Trolling Motor redefines offshore angling with raw power, GPS-guided precision, and a stripped-down design built for customization. Garmin prioritizes adaptability by omitting the built-in transducer, empowering anglers to pair it with their preferred LiveScope or sonar systems.
Corrosion-resistant construction, marathon battery life, and a pivot-style mount cater to tech-driven fishermen who demand reliability without compromise. Discover how this motor blends industrial strength with smart navigation to dominate open waters.
Key Points of Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer
- Most powerful trolling motor on the market with 100 lbs of thrust (in compliance with ISO standard 13342)
- Anchor lock provides our most precise boat positioning, thanks to multi-band GPS and integrated AHRS for heading hold
- Wireless integration with Garmin chartplotters allows you to create routes, patterns and tracks for the trolling motor t…
Specifications of Garmin Force Kraken Without Transducer
| Features | 48″ White Model | 63″ White Model | 75″ White Model | 90″ White Model |
| Shaft Length | 48 in (122 cm) | 63 in (160 cm) | 75 in (190.5 cm) | 90 in (228.6 cm) |
| Thrust | 80 lbs (24V) / 100 lbs (36V) | 80 lbs (24V) / 100 lbs (36V) | 80 lbs (24V) / 100 lbs (36V) | 80 lbs (24V) / 100 lbs (36V) |
| Weight | 22.6 kg (50 lbs) | 24 kg (53 lbs) | 24.5 kg (54 lbs) | 25 kg (55 lbs) |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Voltage Range | 20–45 Vdc | 20–45 Vdc | 20–45 Vdc | 20–45 Vdc |
| Power Consumption | 2160 W (max at 36V) | 2160 W (max at 36V) | 2160 W (max at 36V) | 2160 W (max at 36V) |
| Cable Management | LiveScope-compatible | LiveScope-compatible | LiveScope-compatible | LiveScope-compatible |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 (shaft cap) / IPX8 (propeller motor) | IPX5 / IPX8 | IPX5 / IPX8 | IPX5 / IPX8 |
Features of Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer
Engineered for Anglers Who Demand Control, Adaptability, and Resilience Over Pre-Packaged Solutions. Here are its standout features in detail:
Power & Performance
The Garmin Force Kraken delivers 80 lbs of thrust on 24V or 100 lbs on 36V, making it ideal for Kayaks up to 10,000 lbs. Its brushless motor ensures near-silent operation while maximizing energy efficiency, providing up to 20+ hours of runtime at low speeds. Dual-voltage compatibility allows anglers to tailor power output to their needs, balancing raw strength with battery conservation.
Saltwater-Ready Design
Built for harsh marine environments, the Kraken features a corrosion-resistant aluminum housing and a reinforced composite shaft. With an IPX5 rating on the shaft cap and IPX8 waterproofing on the propeller motor, it withstands saltwater, rain, and submersion. Four shaft lengths (48″, 63″, 75″, 90″) accommodate Kayaks of all sizes, from compact bass Kayaks to offshore vessels.
GPS-Enabled Precision
Integrated GPS technology powers the Anchor Lock and Autopilot systems. Anchor Lock holds the Kayak within 3 feet of a designated spot, even in currents or wind, while Autopilot follows pre-set routes hands-free. These features rely on Garmin’s chartplotter integration for unmatched navigational accuracy.
Wireless Control & Customization
The included floating wireless remote offers gesture-based steering, speed adjustments, and one-touch anchor mode. For tech-savvy anglers, the ActiveCaptain app syncs with Garmin chartplotters and smartwatches, enabling route planning and motor control from anywhere on the Kayak.
LiveScope & Sonar Compatibility
Though sold without a transducer, the Kraken supports seamless integration with Garmin’s LiveScope Plus or other sonar systems. Its internal cable-routing system minimizes deck clutter, allowing anglers to customize their fish-finding setup without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
Pivot-Style Mount & Installation
The pivot-style mounting system simplifies installation on Kayaks with limited bow space. A gas-assisted stow-and-deploy mechanism ensures smooth operation, while pre-drilled bolt patterns and reinforced deck recommendations guarantee stability in rough waters.
Pros and Cons for the Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer
| Pros | Cons |
| High thrust-to-power efficiency (80–100 lbs) | No built-in transducer (requires separate purchase for sonar) |
| GPS-guided Anchor Lock & Autopilot | Premium pricing (costs more than MotorGuide Xi5/Lowrance Ghost) |
| Saltwater-ready construction (IPX5/IPX8, corrosion-resistant) | Complex installation (requires reinforced deck and precise wiring) |
| Wireless remote & smartwatch control | Limited app integration (fully optimized only with Garmin chartplotters) |
| Brushless motor (silent, energy-efficient, 20+ hour runtime) | Heavyweight design (50–55 lbs, depending on shaft length) |
| Dual-voltage flexibility (24V/36V) | Manual stow/deploy (no power-assist for lifting) |
Key Takeaways of Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer
Who Should Buy
Offshore/Saltwater Anglers: The Kraken’s corrosion-resistant build, 100 lbs of thrust, and IPX8-rated motor thrive in harsh marine environments.
Tech-Driven Customizers: Anglers who prefer pairing the motor with their own LiveScope or third-party sonar systems will appreciate the clutter-free cable routing and adaptability.
GPS Precision Enthusiasts: Fishermen needing pinpoint anchor lock and autopilot routing for competitive fishing or open-water trolling.
High-Power Seekers: Owners of large Kayaks (up to 10,000 lbs) requiring dual-voltage flexibility (24V/36V) and marathon battery life.
Who Should Skip
All-in-One Sonar Fans: Anglers who prioritize built-in transducers should opt for Minn Kota Ultrex or MotorGuide Xi5 models.
Small-Kayak Owners: The 48” shaft’s minimum length and heavyweight design (50+ lbs) may overwhelm compact bass Kayaks or kayaks.
Convenience-First Users: Lack of auto stow/deploy and manual lifting mechanics frustrate those valuing hands-free operation.
User Experience and Reviews
| Positive Reviews | Negative Reviews |
| The GPS-guided anchor lock holds position within 3 feet even in heavy currents, making offshore fishing stress-free | The lack of auto-stow/deploy as a default feature frustrates users who prioritize convenience |
| Wireless remote gesture steering feels futuristic and enhances control from any spot on the Kayak | Installation requires reinforced deck modifications, adding unexpected costs for larger Kayaks |
| Saltwater-ready build shows minimal corrosion after months of use in harsh marine environments | White models lack transducer integration, forcing anglers to spend extra on LiveScope setups |
| Dual-voltage flexibility (24V/36V) extends battery life, allowing full-day fishing without recharging | Heavyweight design (50–55 lbs) complicates manual lifting for solo anglers |
| LiveScope cable routing keeps decks clutter-free, a game-changer for forward-facing sonar users | Limited color options (white-only for non-transducer models) disappoint anglers seeking aesthetics |
Is the Garmin Force Kraken Worth Its Premium Price Without a Transducer?
The Garmin Force Kraken excels as a powerhouse for serious anglers prioritizing raw thrust, GPS precision, and saltwater durability over integrated sonar. Its brushless motor, wireless controls, and LiveScope compatibility cater to tech-savvy users willing to invest in customization.
However, casual fishermen or those needing built-in transducers may find better value elsewhere. For offshore warriors and Garmin loyalists, the Kraken delivers unmatched performance, but its steep cost and manual features demand careful consideration of long-term fishing needs.
FAQs About Garmin Force Kraken Without Transducer
Can the Force Kraken work with non-Garmin sonar systems?
Yes, it’s universal cable routing supports third-party transducers, though LiveScope integration is optimized for Garmin units.
Is 24V or 36V better for the Kraken’s performance?
36V unlocks 100 lbs of thrust for heavy Kayaks, while 24V (80 lbs) suits smaller vessels and extends battery life.
Does it require professional installation?
DIY installation is possible with basic tools, but reinforcing the deck and wiring 24V/36V systems may need expert help.
How does it compare to the Minn Kota Ultrex?
The Kraken offers superior saltwater durability and GPS precision, but the Ultrex includes auto stow/deploy and costs less.
What happens if the shaft breaks?
Garmin’s lifetime shaft warranty covers defects, but physical damage from misuse or accidents is excluded.
Recommended Accessories for Garmin Force Kraken without Transducer Trolling Motor
Equip your Garmin Force Kraken without a transducer with essential accessories for enhanced performance. Consider a quick-release plate for easy removal, a compatible lithium-ion battery for extended power, a robust circuit breaker for protection, and a prop wrench kit for maintenance. Adding a remote control lanyard and a motor cover will further optimize your trolling experience.