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Home » Best Trolling Motors For Small Boats 2022

Best Trolling Motors For Small Boats 2025

December 12, 2022 by Editor

You can spend a lot of money on a trolling motor, but luckily for budget-conscious anglers, you don’t have to. The reality is that a good trolling motor doesn’t have to cost a fortune, it just needs to do its job well.
The most important thing to consider is how, where and what you fish, because that will determine what kind of trolling motor you’ll need. There are a lot of different types of trolling motors, and they vary in their range, durability and ease of use. Some are designed for inshore fishing and others for offshore, and some are more durable than others. But regardless of the size of your boat, there is a trolling motor out there that will fit your fishing needs.

Here are our best trolling motors for small boats.

# Preview Product Price
1 Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30 Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft $239.99 Buy on Amazon
2 Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor (30-Pound Thrust, 30-Inch Shaft, 12-Volt) Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor (30-Pound Thrust, 30-Inch Shaft, 12-Volt) $139.99 Buy on Amazon
3 Watersnake T24 ASP - 24 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Transom Mount Watersnake T24 ASP – 24 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Transom Mount Price not available Buy on Amazon
4 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft) $239.99 Buy on Amazon
5 Intex 68624EP Motor Mount Kit for inflatable Boats Intex 68624EP Motor Mount Kit for inflatable Boats $30.90 Buy on Amazon
6 Newport Vessels X-Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (36 Newport Vessels X-Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (36″ Shaft) $324.99 Buy on Amazon
7 Watersnake Venom 34lb Thrust Electric Motor (Fresh & Saltwater) Watersnake Venom 34lb Thrust Electric Motor (Fresh & Saltwater) No products found. No products found.
8 XRRX Recessed Boat Trolling Motor Pan, Trolling Motor Foot Pan, Applicable To Most Size- matched Trolling Motor Foot Pedal Pan, Replaces Minn Kota 100RTMP XRRX Recessed Boat Trolling Motor Pan, Trolling Motor Foot Pan, Applicable To Most Size- matched Trolling Motor Foot Pedal Pan, Replaces Minn Kota 100RTMP $73.99 Buy on Amazon
9 GaiRen Trolling Motor Battery Cable Extension Kit 10 Feet 8AWG Cable Extension 50Amp with Terminals for Fishing Boat Trolling Motor Solar Panel Automotive( Red & Black) GaiRen Trolling Motor Battery Cable Extension Kit 10 Feet 8AWG Cable Extension 50Amp with Terminals for Fishing Boat Trolling Motor Solar Panel Automotive( Red & Black) $28.98 Buy on Amazon
10 MotorGuide 8M4000954 Trolling Motor Power Receptacle, 2-Prong 12V, 24V or 36V Trolling Motors, for Bow-Panel Installation MotorGuide 8M4000954 Trolling Motor Power Receptacle, 2-Prong 12V, 24V or 36V Trolling Motors, for Bow-Panel Installation $19.91 Buy on Amazon

Our Editor’s Best Trolling Motors For Small Boats Reviews


Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft

 Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30

Key Features:

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and provides an excellent power output of 55lbs of thrust. It is made from high quality materials and components that allow it to run all day long without overheating or making noise that could spook fish.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and features a 30 inch shaft, a 5 LED battery meter, a 6 inch telescoping tiller handle, and 3 blade propeller. The mount angle, height, and direction can all be adjusted and locked into place when needed.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats. It has 8 speeds, 5 forward and 3 reverse. The top speed of this motor is about 4mph, but it depends on your boat shape, weight, water, wind, and other factors. The 3 blade propeller gives the motor great low end torque to get the boat moving.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and requires one 12V lead-acid deep cycle or lithium deep cycle battery (battery not included). It also includes a 50Amp circuit breaker which is recommended at all times to protect from battery voltage surges. Max Amp Draw: 52A

$239.99 Buy on Amazon


Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor (30-Pound Thrust, 30-Inch Shaft, 12-Volt)

 Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor (30-Pound Thrust, 30-Inch Shaft, 12-Volt)

Key Features:

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and includes five forward speeds and two reverse speeds. This allows the user to tailor the speed of the motor to their needs, whether they are looking for a slow and steady trolling speed or a quicker speed for getting around the lake.

  • This trolling motor is designed to help your boat move easily through the water and weeds. The weedless two-blade propeller helps to prevent your boat from getting stuck in weeds or other debris.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small watercraft including kayaks, canoes, inflatables, Jon boats, and more. It is a versatile and affordable option for those looking for a trolling motor for their small boat.

  • The trolling motors for small boats is a 30-inch telescopic chrome plated steel shaft that is extendable and has a tiller operating. It has 30lbs of thrust.

  • The trolling motors for small boats are created by anglers to be used by anglers and comes with a satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can contact the distributor for assistance.

$139.99 Buy on Amazon


Watersnake T24 ASP – 24 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Transom Mount

 Watersnake T24 ASP - 24 Pound Thrust 12v Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Transom Mount

Key Features:

  • The Watersnake electric trolling motor is a lightweight and portable option for small boats. It is ideal for kayaks, canoes, small dinghies, and inflatable boats. It only weighs 4.85 lbs (2.2kg) making it easy to carry and maneuver.

  • The Watersnake trolling motor is designed for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. It is a salt water motor with anti-corrosive paint and stainless steel external and internal parts.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and is easy to attach and steer. It has a hand tiller with an extendable handle, high and low-speed control, forward and reverse switch, and a two-blade mini weedless propeller.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and features an adjustable transom mount fitting, anti-impact clip system, high and low-speed control, forward and reverse switch, and extendable hand tiller steering.

  • This trolling motor is for small boats and has 24 lb. of thrust. It is 12V and has a 9-20 amp draw. The shaft is 24″ (61cm) and the prop is a 2 blade weedless design.

  • The trolling motor is light weight, making it perfect for small boats. It has a six-pound thrust and is made of durable materials.

Price not available Buy on Amazon


Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft)

 Newport Vessels Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24

Key Features:

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats, and features a 24-inch fiberglass shaft that allows for variable depth placement. The motor offers a lifetime of dependable performance.

  • This trolling motor for small boats has 8 speeds (5 forward and 3 reverse) and a 6-inch telescoping handle for easy control.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and is made from durable materials that can resist corrosion from saltwater. It has a lead-acid DC 12V power source.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and comes with extra long cables that allow for versatile battery placement. This is beneficial for optimizing weight distribution.

$239.99 Buy on Amazon


Intex 68624EP Motor Mount Kit for inflatable Boats

 Intex 68624EP Motor Mount Kit for inflatable Boats

Key Features:

  • The trolling motor is designed to be used with Index inflatable boats. It is a motor mount kit that allows the user to mount the trolling motor to the boat.

  • The trolling motors for small boats lets you attach up to 3.5-horsepower motors. This is a great option for those who want to have more control over their boat, and it’s also great for fishing or other activities where you need to be able to move around easily.

  • This trolling motor is made of plastic with aluminum support arms. It is designed for small boats and is easy to install.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and can be easily attached and detached. It can also be disassembled for easy storage.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and is compatible with most newer model Index boats. It is ideal for fishing or cruising and features a durable construction and a powerful motor.

$30.90 Buy on Amazon


Newport Vessels X-Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (36″ Shaft)

 Newport Vessels X-Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (36

Key Features:

  • This trolling motor is ideal for small boats because it provides 55lb of thrust while being efficient with its power usage. The high quality components allow it to run all day without any issues.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and features a 36 inch fiberglass shaft, 10 LED battery meter, 6 inch telescoping tiller handle, 30 degree adjustable head, and 3 blade propeller. The tiller angle, as well as mount, height, angle, and direction can all be adjusted and locked into place when needed, making it a versatile and easy-to-use trolling motor.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and has 8 speeds, 5 forward and 3 reverse. The motor’s top speed is 4mph, but this may vary depending on the boat’s weight, water conditions, wind, and other factors. The motor is equipped with a 3 blade propeller for low end torque.

  • This trolling motor is for small boats and requires one (1) 12V Lead-Acid Deep Cycle or Lithium Deep Cycle battery (battery not included), 50ah recommended. The motor also includes a 50amp circuit breaker which is recommended at all times to protect from battery voltage surges. Max Amp Draw: 52A

  • The trolling motors for small boats are designed for use in small boats. They are made in the USA by Newport Vessels and come with a full in-house customer service team.

  • Newport trolling motors are made with high-quality stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc hardware to withstand fresh water and salt water environments. They offer industry-leading customer service and a 2-year warranty.

$324.99 Buy on Amazon


Watersnake Venom 34lb Thrust Electric Motor (Fresh & Saltwater)

 Watersnake Venom 34lb Thrust Electric Motor (Fresh & Saltwater)

Key Features:

  • The trolling motors for small boats are designed for saltwater anglers and are loaded with clever features. The shafts on all motors are an extra-tough composite constructed specifically for use in saltwater marine environments. The tiller handles are telescopic for versatility, comfort and control.

  • This is a description of trolling motors for small boats. The motors are available in 34lb and 54lb sizes, and each size has a different number of blades on the propeller. The motors are 12V and have 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds.

  • This is a trolling motor for a small boat. It has a thrust of 54 lbs and a 12 volt motor. The battery is not included. This motor is suited for boats ranging from small tenders and tinnies up to dedicated estuary and inshore sportfishing boats.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and features a transom mount, digital voltage meter display, and upgraded grips on the transom mount. The motor also has a fast multi-tilt positioning bracket that makes it easy to attach and secure the motor.

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and comes with a satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the trolling motor, you can contact the distributor for help.

No products found. No products found.


XRRX Recessed Boat Trolling Motor Pan, Trolling Motor Foot Pan, Applicable To Most Size- matched Trolling Motor Foot Pedal Pan, Replaces Minn Kota 100RTMP

 XRRX Recessed Boat Trolling Motor Pan, Trolling Motor Foot Pan, Applicable To Most Size- matched Trolling Motor Foot Pedal Pan, Replaces Minn Kota 100RTMP

Key Features:

  • The trolling motor is designed for small boats and has dimensions of 12 inches wide by 19-⅜ inches long. The cutout or hole size in your boat deck is 10-1/2” wide by 17-3/4 inches long. The inside mounting area is 9-3/4” wide by 17“ long by 4” inches deep.

  • This trolling motor is designed to fit any brand of trolling motor foot control, and provides a solid, recessed foundation for your trolling motor pedal. This product is ideal for small boats, and makes it easy to control your trolling motor while out on the water.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and comes with pre-drilled mounting holes for easy installation. It includes 10 #8 screws for securing the motor to the boat.

  • The trolling motor is UV protected so it will not rust or fade easily. It is relatively lightweight and will not add much weight on your boat.

  • The trolling motor is made of aluminum alloy and is brand new. It is designed for small boats and comes with the highest quality.

$73.99 Buy on Amazon


GaiRen Trolling Motor Battery Cable Extension Kit 10 Feet 8AWG Cable Extension 50Amp with Terminals for Fishing Boat Trolling Motor Solar Panel Automotive( Red & Black)

 GaiRen Trolling Motor Battery Cable Extension Kit 10 Feet 8AWG Cable Extension 50Amp with Terminals for Fishing Boat Trolling Motor Solar Panel Automotive( Red & Black)

Key Features:

  • This is a battery cable extension kit for use with trolling motors on small boats. It is available in 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V versions, and allows the user to extend the battery cable between the battery and the trolling motor.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and comes with a 10-foot extension cable, connecting hardware, and copper screws and nuts. It also includes 2 safe electrical tape and 2 free heat shrink tube for added safety.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats, and comes with an extension kit to lengthen the cable without impacting performance.

  • This is a trolling motor for small boats that comes with an 8 AWG cable. The cable is made with a rugged PVC insulation jacket that is resistant to abrasion and can withstand the rigors of use. The maximum operating current for this trolling motor is 50 amps.

  • The trolling motors for small boats come with 2 red and black electrical tape for safety.

$28.98 Buy on Amazon


MotorGuide 8M4000954 Trolling Motor Power Receptacle, 2-Prong 12V, 24V or 36V Trolling Motors, for Bow-Panel Installation

 MotorGuide 8M4000954 Trolling Motor Power Receptacle, 2-Prong 12V, 24V or 36V Trolling Motors, for Bow-Panel Installation

Key Features:

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats, and it expands the options for where you can mount the trolling motor on the boat.

  • A trolling motor for a small boat that has a two-pronged receptacle that can be used with 12-, 24- or 36-volt power sources.

  • This trolling motor is designed for small boats and installs in the bow panel.

  • The trolling motors for small boats are constructed from durable materials that will withstand years of use. They are designed for small boats and can handle all of the challenges that come with trolling.

  • This trolling motor for small boats includes a hinged, spring-loaded cover that protects the receptacle when not in use.

$19.91 Buy on Amazon


Best Trolling Motors For Small Boats Buying Guide

Before choosing the best trolling motor you should consider following options:

1. Power Source: Electric or gas? Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Electric motors are generally cheaper and lighter. Gas models are more powerful and you can be more selective in choosing the exact type of motor you want.

2. Shaft Design: The shaft of the trolling motor is the part that connects the motor to the boat. There are three basic types of shafts that are used in most boats.

3. Straight: Straight shafts are the most common type of shaft and are used in most boats. Straight shafts are typically between 15 and 20 feet long and are more efficient at moving the boat forward.

4. Angled: Also known as offset, angled shafts allow the motor to be closer to the water and are typically used in smaller boats.

5. Tomcar or oblique: Tomcar or oblique shafts are similar to straight shafts except there is a bend in the shaft that allows the motor to be closer to the water. These shafts are typically used in smaller boats.

6. Width: The width of the boat is an important factor to consider when choosing a trolling motor. The motor needs to be wide enough and powerful enough to move the boat.

7. Horsepower: Horsepower is a measure of the raw power that a motor has. It is typically rated in ‘stern drive’ horsepower. This means that it is the total horsepower of the motor and drive combined.

8. Torque: Torque is the measure of the twisting power of the motor. Higher torque is better because it means the motor has the ability to move through thick and thin water.

9. Speed: The speed of the trolling motor is something that is often overlooked. The speed of the motor is important because it determines how quickly the boat can maneuver.

10. Thrust: Thrust is the measure of how much force the motor can push on the water. Thrust is typically measured in pounds per horsepower.


Trolling Motors For Small Boats FAQs

1.What is the difference between a trolling motor and a regular outboard motor?

A trolling motor is a type of outboard motor that is specifically designed for use while trolling, or moving slowly through the water. A regular outboard motor is designed for use while the boat is moving at a faster speed.

2.How do you determine the size trolling motor you need for your boat?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including the size and weight of your boat, the type of water you’ll be fishing in, and your personal preferences. However, as a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to choose a trolling motor that is powerful enough to move your boat at a slow, steady speed – around 2-3 miles per hour. Additionally, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the trolling motor when choosing one for your boat, as you’ll need to make sure it can be properly mounted and secured.

3.What are the benefits of using a trolling motor on a small boat?

Some benefits of using a trolling motor on a small boat include being able to move the boat around in tight spaces, being able to fish in areas with little or no wind, and being able to control the speed and direction of the boat with ease.

4.How do you install a trolling motor on a small boat?

There are a few different ways that you can install a trolling motor on a small boat, but the most common way is to mount it on the back of the boat. You will need to drill holes in the boat to mount the trolling motor.

5.How do you operate a trolling motor on a small boat?

There is a battery operated trolling motor that is affixed to the bow of the boat. The trolling motor is used to propel the boat and steer it in the water.


Conclusion

There are many great trolling motors for small boats on the market. Our list of the best trolling motors for small boats will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.

Filed Under: Trolling Motor

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