Our Top Pick:
Sea Eagle Torqeedo Travel 1103CS
★★★★★
Best Value:
Sea Eagle Watersnake ASP T24 Saltwater and Freshwater Motor
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Sea Eagle Riptide 55s 55lb Thrust Motor
★★★★★
There are so many best electric trolling motors for kayaks that it can be overwhelming to make a choice. There are quite a few factors for consideration before buying the best motor, which is suitable for the kayak size and also as per the power output of the motor besides other crucial considerations for the best kayaking experience. Hand or foot controlled motor and other factors which make an electric trolling motor superior to the rest, are discussed below.
| Best Electric Trolling Motors for Kayaks | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Sea Eagle Torqeedo Travel 1103CS | Check Price » |
| #2 Sea Eagle Watersnake ASP T24 Saltwater and Freshwater Motor | Check Price » |
| #3 Sea Eagle Riptide 55s 55lb Thrust Motor | Check Price » |
| #4 Endura C2 30 Trolling Motor by Minn Kota | Check Price » |
| #5 Endure C2 40 Trolling Motor by Minn Kota | Check Price » |
| #6 Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor by Minn Kota | Check Price » |
| #7 NV Electric Trolling Motor (46 lb) by Newport Vessels | Check Price » |
| #8 NV Electric Trolling Motor (55 lb) by Newport Vessels | Check Price » |
| #9 Kayak Series Electric Trolling Motor by Newport Vessels | Check Price » |
| #10 Transom Mount Trolling Motor by Watersnake | Check Price » |
| #11 Electric Trolling Motor (Bow-Mount) by Haswing | Check Price » |
| #12 Endura Max 55 by Minn Kota | Check Price » |
| #13 Electric Transom Trolling Motor by Gorplus | Check Price » |
Electric Trolling Motors for Kayaks Reviews
#1. Sea Eagle Torqeedo Travel 1103CS
This short shaft kayak trolling motor is part of the Travel motor series by Sea Eagle. It is a high-efficiency motor and comes with a 915 Wh lithium battery that is integrated with the motor. It is rate quiet for such a powerful motor.
Product Specifications
- Power: 1100 W
- Thrust level: 70
- Shaft length: 24.6 inches
- Shipping Weight: 32.4 pounds
- Warranty: Two-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This is a top-of-the-line trolling motor for kayaks. It is extremely quiet. It comes with a high-capacity lithium battery of 915 Wh. This motor is designed to offer 10% more power and you expect 1,100 W. It is waterproof and also boasts a stronger aluminum pylon for protection against damage due to impact. It has an immediate throttle response.
Pros
- Enhanced battery power
- Quiet motor emitting just 33 dB
- Durable and long-lasting
- Comes with a computer that has GPS
- Easy to install and dismantle
- Has a transom mount
- Can be used in saltwater and freshwater
Cons
- Has a learning curve to use all the features
Tip: The motor comes with an emergency kill switch that is magnetic.
Info alert: The motor can achieve a maximum propeller speed of 1,450 rpm.
#2. Sea Eagle Watersnake ASP T24 Saltwater and Freshwater Motor
This motor is lightweight and can be used in salt water, brackish water, or freshwater. It is also inexpensive compared to similar motors on the market. It has an adjustable transom mount and a two-blade propeller design.
Product Specifications
- Power: 12 volts
- Thrust level: 18 pounds
- Shaft length: 24 inches
- Shipping Weight: 4.85 pounds
- Warranty: Two-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This motor is lightweight and hence, it is easy to transport and carry. The design is simple and there is more emphasis on performance and quality. It is resistant to corrosion, thanks to the anti-corrosive paint as well as stainless steel internal and external components. The shaft is adjustable and the motor is easy to steer. It also has a bracket mount for kayaks. The motor offers a thrust of 18lb.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Has a thrust of 18lb
- Two-blade propeller
- Adjustable shaft
- Easy to steer and maneuver
- Comes with an extendable hand tiller
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- The battery has to be bought separately as it is not included
Tip: It is advisable to have a spare propeller on board so that you can change it if a problem arises.
Info alert: The motor has a low speed of around 2.5 to 3.5 mph while the high speed is about 3.5 to 4.5 mph.
#3. Sea Eagle Riptide 55s 55lb Thrust Motor
This trolling motor is made from marine-grade alloy and that means you do not have to worry about corrosion, especially if you are using it in saltwater. It is designed for saltwater but can also be used in freshwater.
Product Specifications
- Power: 12 volts
- Thrust level: 55 pounds
- Shaft length: 36 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 25 pounds
- Warranty: Two-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This trolling motor for kayaks is designed for saltwater use. It is made from a marine-grade alloy so there is no risk of corrosion. It comes with a covered control board and the cam depth is adjustable. You can lock the cam depth adjuster after you choose the required depth for the motor. It comes with a tilt hand tiller that can be extended up to 6 inches. It requires just a single battery.
Pros
- Designed for saltwater use
- Adjustable cam depth
- Powerful and performance-oriented
- Easy to steer and maneuver
- Has a thrust of 55lb
- The tiller handle can be tilted and extended
- Easy to install and stow away
Cons
- Does not come with a battery
Tip: You should be able to get two hours of usage from this motor if you go full throttle on a fully charged battery.
Info alert: The tiller handle can tilt up to 45 degrees and extend up to six inches to adjust to any fishing style.
#4. Endura C2 30 Trolling Motor for Kayaks by Minn Kota
One of the best available in the market, the Endura C2 30 has a powerful transom-mounted electric motor with five forward and three reverse speed controls. It comes equipped with an ergonomically designed, sensitive handle, tilt twist tillers for efficient steering and controlled speeds. It also features a powerful yet silent motor to enable anglers and avid fishers to get their catch due to reduced levels of motor noise.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Thrust level: 30
- Shaft length: 30 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 17 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This Endura C2 30 is one of the best available and performs true to its words. It comes with a silent motor and ample thrust at 30 pounds and a 30-inch shaft. It delivers five forwards and three reverse speeds, making kayaking a dream for amateur, as well as established anglers.
Pros
- Extremely stable mount with lever lock bracket
- Ergonomic speed control and steering with superbly designed handle
- Enhanced battery power with a quiet motor
- Offers three reverse speed and five forwards speeds
- Equipped with a two-year warranty
Cons
- The power of the motor is less than what is expected
- Very few service centers for repairs
Tip: The speed pick-up can be up to 5 miles per hour; however, this is completely dependent on the weight onboard.
Info alert: Best suited for boats with lengths not exceeding fourteen feet.
#5. Endura C2 40 Trolling Motor for Kayaks by Minn Kota
This is another fantastic product by Minn Kota, the Endura C2 40 belongs to the same series as the C2 30. However, the main differences in the two models are the thrust power and the shaft lengths. It comes equipped for optimal performance in water with a silent motor that does not overheat with constant use, enabling experienced and amateur anglers the best catch.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Thrust level: 40
- Shaft length: 36 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 17 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
The Endura C2 40 comes equipped with 40- pounds of thrust, which is well suited to large kayak and boats. This transom-mounted electric motor for trolling is silent and powerful, with ample battery backup. It also has superior five speeds for moving forward, with three speeds for reversing, and is a dream for kayak fishing enthusiasts.
Pros
- Powerful propeller ensures that there is less battery drainage with the Weedless Wedge 2
- Easy and efficient speed control with telescoping tiller
- Silent power motor for enhanced performance in water
- Reliable battery with a minimum of 3 hours
- Comes with a warranty for two-years
Cons
- The motor is not as silent, as expected.
- The number of service stations for repairs are fewer than expected
Tip: It does not come with a battery indicator so an external one is required.
Info alert: Adjustable shaft, and advised by the manufacturer to keep at 12 inches below the water.
#6. Endura C2 55 Trolling Motor for Kayaks by Minn Kota
Endure C2 55 is a notch above the first two and comes with 55 pounds of thrust. The smooth and noiseless motor exerts 55 pounds of thrust. Not just that it has superior systems to dissipate heat, to enable the battery to optimally function for longer hours.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Thrust level: 55
- Shaft length: 36 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 17 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This is one of the most powerful models from Minn Kota and is considered one of the best electric trolling motors for kayaks in terms of power with a thrust capacity of 55 pounds. This fabulous product comes with a two-year guarantee and immense power suitable for large kayaks and canoes. The optimally cool and noiseless motor is streamlined to ensure longer and stable battery power that will last of hours.
Pros
- Powerful thrust of 55 pounds with 12-volts motor
- It comes with a 36-inch shaft length
- Reliable battery with a minimum of 3 hours
- Smooth and soundless motor for a silent operation
- Large windings and commutators ensure dissipated heat, enabling the battery to operate for longer hours
Cons
- The shaft is uncovered from both sides, exposing it to water
Tip: This product is made for freshwater use.Tip:
Info alert: Adjustable shaft, and advised by the manufacturer to keep at 12 inches below the water.
#7. NV Electric Trolling Motor for Kayaks (46 lb) by Newport Vessels
This NV series motor for kayaks with a 46-pound thrust is one of a kind, with superior performance. The motor comes equipped with an adjustable composite shaft made from fiberglass, which ensures durability and sturdiness for the best performance in the water. This trolling motor is suitable for kayaking, transom boats, dinghies, Jon boats, and other types of personal watercraft.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Propeller blade size: 8.9-inch diameter, small
- Thrust level: 46 pounds
- Shaft length: 30 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 20 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This NV series trolling motor comes with 46 pounds thrust. It is also equipped with a battery indicator with a 5-point LED light, which means that you will never run out of battery and be stranded. This product is also suitable for saltwater use, with stainless steel, zinc, and magnesium hardware.
Pros
- Equipped with a three-blade propeller for gliding through water
- The thrust of the motor is a 46 pounds
- This motor is suitable for freshwater, as well as saltwater use
- Smooth and soundless motor for a silent operation
- This product comes with a circuit breaker which ensures the longevity and durability of the propellers
- Comes with a battery meter with a 5-point LED
Cons
- It does not come with a battery for operation
Tip: This comes with eight speeds; 5 forward and 3 reverse
Info alert: Get an additional waterproof case for the fuse box.
#8. NV Electric Trolling Motor for Kayaks (55 lb) by Newport Vessels
This electric trolling motor with a 55-pound thrust is a powerful motor, virtually inaudible, so make kayaking and fishing experience, smooth and peaceful. It comes equipped with a battery meter with LED lights, which ensure that you are up-to-date with charge level. Attach it to a kayak, canoe, dinghy, and other types of personal watercraft to glide through the water with a premium three-blade propeller that lets the craft glide through freshwater as well as saltwater with ease.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Propeller blade size: 10 inches diameter
- Thrust level: 55 pounds
- Shaft length: 30 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 23 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This electric trolling motor for kayaks is fabulous with a 55 pounds thrust. The motor comes with a fiberglass composite shaft, measuring 30 inches and can be used in both saltwater, as well as freshwater without noticeable adverse effects. With ergonomically designed handle and tiller for precise steering, and a 50-amps circuit breaker to protect the motor from electrical damage, this equipment is one of the best electric trolling motors for kayaks available in the market with optimal performance.
Pros
- The superior motor power comes with 55-pound thrust
- Made from stainless steel, zinc, and magnesium for saltwater and freshwater use
- The powerful motor can effortlessly glide through the water, noiselessly
- Comes with a 5-point LED battery meter to gauge the battery charge level
- Nylon transom mount is suitable for most small and medium-sized watercraft
- Comes with an extra-durable composite fiberglass shaft
Cons
- The shaft is not watertight sealed, making the motor corrode after saltwater use
- The transom mount is plastic, and not very durable
Tip: 3 blade propeller, with 10-inch diameter for optimal performance
Info alert: Works best with a marine or deep cycle, Lithium-based battery of 12-volts.
#9. Kayak Series Electric Trolling Motor for Kayaks by Newport Vessels
The Kayak Series from Newport combines practicality, functionality, and affordability in a great powerful package. This silent and capable motor exerts thrust of 55 pounds to smoothly cut through the water for a superior kayaking and boating experience for amateur and experienced anglers, alike.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Propeller blade size: 10 inches diameter
- Thrust level: 55 pounds
- Shaft length: 24 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Shipping Weight: 23 pounds
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This fantastic electrical trolling motor from the Kayak Series by Newport offers superior performance, whether in saltwater or freshwater. It is fast and efficient and comes with an extra-long battery cable of 5 feet 6 inches for optimal placements for the right weight distribution. This is a great product at a reasonable price, with fantastic performance.
Pros
- The exceptional performance of the 55 pounds noiseless motor for efficient fishing
- Adjustable height, 24-inch shaft for the optimal depth for an efficiency
- Equipped with extra-long cable, to enable anglers to choose correct battery placement even weight distribution
- Comes with a 5-point LED battery meter to gauge the battery charge level
- Nylon transom mount is suitable for most small and medium-sized watercraft
- Comes with an extra-durable composite fiberglass shaft
Cons
- The reverse speed is inefficient and does not always work
- The terminals can be loose in the switch
Tip: Stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc-coated shaft to ensure durability for saltwater and freshwater use.
Info alert: Bright blue LED display for battery consumption level.
#10. Transom Mount Trolling Motor for Kayaks (T18S) by Watersnake
This Watersnake electric transom mount trolling motor is not the strongest available; however, it does a neat job and smoothly glides across the water. It has an extra-strong and powerful 2-blade propeller, which enables it to navigate through underwater grass, weeds, and marshes, efficiently and fast. This simple motor has only a double sped motor, which means that there are only high and low speeds for navigation.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Propeller blade size: 2-blade, 6 inches diameter
- Thrust level: 18 pounds
- Shaft length: 24 inches
- Shipping Weight: 11.2 pounds
- Warranty: One-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
The Watersnake T18S is one of a kind, small yet powerful electric transom-mounted trolling motor for fast and efficient movements in the water. Although small, it can zip around in freshwater, as well as saltwater, without hassle. The motor is very efficient as well and does not consume excess power, like many other motors available in the market.
Pros
- Designed specifically for small dinghies, kayaks, and inflatable boats
- Double-bladed propeller for cutting through the toughest underwater weeds, grass, and marsh
- Equipped with extra-long cable, to enable anglers to choose correct battery placement even weight distribution
- Extremely powerful, durable and silent analog, with 2-speed control
- Anti-corrosive coating for saltwater, as well as freshwater
- An alloy shaft build for smooth and easy operation
Cons
- The bracket to secure the motor is faulty and break easily
- Does not perform well with opposing currents
Tip: Extremely efficient and can easily carry three people with minimal battery usage.
Info alert: It comes with a durable clip for the motor release, when not in use. The clip is extra-hard and does not get displaced on impact.
#11. Electric Trolling Motor for Kayaks (Bow-Mount) by Haswing
If you are looking for superior performance from the electric motor, one that is reasonably priced and works well then this electrical trolling motor is perfect for the medium-sized boat. It has a tremendous weight capacity and has remote-controlled speed control, which is fabulous for anglers. It can easily change the depth of the motor, for easy and hassle-free navigation. A reliable option for smooth operations, it has the distinction of being one of the best electric trolling motors for kayaks that is invaluable and available for a great price.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Propeller blade size: 3-blade, 9.3 inches diameter
- Motor weight capacity: 2750 pounds
- Thrust level: 55 pounds
- Shaft length: 48 inches
- Shipping Weight: 34 pounds
- Warranty: Two-year warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This Haswing model is perfect for anglers, whether amateurs or experienced; it has superior performance in water and with remote-controlled operations, within 164 feet from the motor makes it extremely convenient. It has a superb weight capacity of up to 2750 pounds, which means, it is suitable for large capacity kayaks and other types of watercraft.
Pros
- Comes with an easy to use design for the depth collar for changing the depth in the water
- An ergonomically designed handle for easy use
- The sacrificial anode protects during use in saltwater; suitable for freshwater use as well
- The wireless remote controlled operation, cruising speed control, for optimal convenience
- Anti-corrosive coating for saltwater, as well as freshwater
- Noiseless motor for optimal fishing
Cons
- Wireless remote may lose connection and can require uncomplicated resetting.
- The caps for the motor may become loose, causing the wires to pinch
Tip: The remote control has to be vertical, upright, for it to respond.
Info alert: Any technical problems will be dealt with by the manufacturer and they are prompt and helpful.
#12. Endura Max 55 by Minn Kota
Another fantastic option for an electric trolling motor for kayaks and other watercraft, the Endura Max 55 is a silent and efficient system which comes with a 10-lever bracket for quick release latch; it is suitable for use both in saltwater and freshwater, although it requires a thorough rinse and drying to ensure longevity. The shaft for the motor is indestructible, making it a great investment for your watercraft.
Product Specs
- Power: 12-volts
- Thrust level: 55 pounds
- Shaft length: 36 inches
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
An easy-to-use product, the Endura Max 55 offers ample thrust for large boats of up to 17 feet. It also comes with an intuitive telescopic tiller which enables fast and easy movements gliding through the water. It is affordable and works efficiently, and comes with a Digital Maximizer for the battery, making it last up to five times longer on a single charge.
Pros
- Equipped with a 10-lever bracket for the quick-release latch
- An ergonomically designed 6-inch handle for easy use
- Telescopic tiller for comfortable and efficient trolling
- Equipped with Digital Maximizer, which enables the battery to last five times longer on a single charge, reducing energy consumption drastically.
- Delivers power only as per requirements, reducing energy consumptions
Cons
- The motor is not very silent
- The power prop cannot navigate through thick weeds.
Tip: Rinse and dry well after use in saltwater.
Info alert: Comes with an in-built battery meter for accurate reports on battery consumption.
#13. Electric Transom Trolling Motor for Kayaks by Gorplus
This Gorplus electric trolling motor offers high-powered performance. It is fast and efficient and is reasonably priced for its performance. This is a must-have for people who are looking to boost the speed with more power. It comes with 8 variable speeds, with 5 forward and 3 reverse for optimal control with the six-inch telescopic handle.
Product Specs
- Power: 24-volts
- Thrust level: 86 pounds
- Shaft length: 36 inches
- Propeller: 3 blades
- Telescoping tiller: 6”
- Warranty: Two-years warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
This is a motor that is frequently bought for its high thrust capacity. It is fast and efficient and priced moderately for it to be accessible to all. The adjustable propeller depth, alongside variable speed, and the adjustable shaft angles, enables the user to change sped and direction easily without hassle.
Pros
- Extremely fast with high power
- The 3-blade propeller can glide through thick marshes, grass, and weeds underwater
- Equipped with a 10-point LED battery indicator for longevity of the batteries
- Easily adjustable depth propeller
- The angle of the shaft is adjustable
Cons
- The switch for the motor can break easily
- The motor overheats and drains the battery
Tip: Marine battery of 80 Amp-hours should be used for the best performance.
Info alert: Extra propellers for this trolling motor can be found on eBay, relatively affordable for its performance.
Make sure you also check out our list of best 12 Volt trolling motors, and other upgrades to your kayak.
Buying Guide for the Best Electric Trolling Motors for Kayaks in 2023
Choosing the right motor for the kayak or other types of watercraft is not difficult, although requires a thorough understanding of the technicalities for the best buy. An efficient, quiet trolling motor is highly desirable for anglers as it should not scare the fish away. Power and stability are two very important factors for the best value for money, depending on the frequency of use and also the weight capacity of the boat.
Power
Each type of motor can handle a specific size watercraft and have weight capacity which must be followed for the best performance. The common rule is 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of loaded capacity.
Batteries
The types of batteries will determine the power as well, to a certain extent. The common range for trolling motor battery capacity is between 12-volts to 34-volts. The thrust to weight ratio must be maintained for optimal performance.
Mounting
There are two types of mounting available, for bow-mounted motors and transom-mounted motors. Transom mounted are the most popular as they can be fitted to most kayaks and watercraft, fitting the scuppers behind the cockpit.
Length of the shaft
As a general rule, the length of the shaft underwater must be at least 12 inches long to not suck air from the top for optimal performance. For choppy water, it is prudent to add another 5 to 6 inches to the 12 for adequate and comfortable movements.
Motor control
What matters is the trolling motor is controlled with a foot pedal or by hand with the tiller; there are some remote controlled options, however the most basic ones for kayakers are the ones with simple tiller control for optimal movements.
Weight
The battery, the mounts, the tolling motor, and kayak weight must be considered, before the best electric trolling motor for kayaks is chosen. The cumulative weight has to be factored in for the best performance in the water.
Legalities
Some states have laws that require trolling motorboats to be registered; any boat with an engine can fall into this category and hence, you must check this before buying an electric trolling motor for your kayak.
Our Verdict
While these are some of the best electric trolling motors for kayaks, the Endura C2 30 Trolling Motor by Minn Kota is no doubt the best available for its price and its performance. It comes with variable speed options, ergonomically designed telescopic tiller control, and offers silent operations. It comes with a two-year warranty and a superior lever lock system to clamp securely to the kayak or other watercraft.
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Updated: October 27, 2022
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