10 Best Electric Trolling Motors For Kayaks 2025 in the United States

The Newport NV-Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is a solid choice for kayak users looking for efficient and reliable performance. The 36lb thrust provides ample power for maneuvering in various water conditions, ensuring that your kayak can handle both calm and slightly rougher waters. The motor is designed to be quiet, reducing the chance of disturbing fish, which is great for fishing enthusiasts. A key feature is its 30-inch shaft, which is well-suited for most kayaks, providing adequate depth control without being cumbersome.

The motor also comes with a 5 LED battery meter, allowing you to monitor battery life easily and avoid unexpected power outages on the water. However, it's worth noting that the battery is not included, so you'll need to budget for a 12V Lead-Acid Deep Cycle or Lithium Deep Cycle battery. With eight-speed settings (five forward and three reverse), this motor offers good versatility for different trolling speeds, though the top speed is around 3mph, which may be slow for some users. The transom mounting option is straightforward and robust, ensuring a stable attachment to your kayak. The adjustable mount angle, height, and direction add to the motor's flexibility and ease of use.

Constructed with high-quality materials like stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc, it is built to withstand both fresh and saltwater environments, which speaks to its durability. While the motor includes a 40amp circuit breaker for protection against battery voltage surges, some users might find the max amp draw of 29A relatively high, which could impact battery life during extended use. At 18.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The 2-year warranty reflects its reliability. This motor is best suited for recreational and fishing kayakers who value durability, ease of use, and efficient power.

The Minn Kota 1358451 PowerDrive is designed for those who need a reliable and powerful trolling motor for their kayak. With 55 lbs of thrust, it provides ample power to navigate various water conditions, which is essential for effective trolling. The 54-inch shaft is a good length, suitable for most kayaks, ensuring it can reach an optimal depth for propulsion. Its digital maximizer technology promises longer battery life, potentially giving up to five times more run time on a single charge, which is perfect for a full day out on the water without worrying about running out of power.

The push-to-test battery meter is a handy feature for monitoring battery status quickly and easily. The advanced GPS trolling system and micro remote make controlling the motor straightforward and user-friendly, allowing you to focus more on fishing than on maneuvering. The deploy-assist lever improves ease of use, making it simple to get in and out of the water. Mounting this motor is also versatile with its transom mount option, making it adaptable to various kayak setups.

It is worth noting that the item weight is 24 pounds, which may be on the heavier side for some users and could affect portability. Additionally, it is designed to handle both fresh and saltwater, expanding its usability. The motor operates quietly, which is great for not disturbing the fish or the serenity of your fishing experience. This trolling motor offers strong performance, advanced features, and ease of use for kayak enthusiasts, but its weight might be a consideration for some users.