8 Best Batteries for Trolling Motor

The right type of trolling motor can make a big difference whether you are an avid angler or a casual boater. To run these motors, you need batteries that are enough to offer a reliable power supply without any security risk. However, with so many options, types, and sizes, one can easily get puzzled.

So, are you wondering how to find the best battery for a trolling motor and don’t have a clue about it? No worries. This guide explores some popular reviews based on weight, size, runtime, maintenance, and energy efficiency, so you are better equipped to make a decision.

Best Battery for Trolling Motor

1. VMAX MR127 AGM Maintenance Free Battery

VMAX is undoubtedly the best choice for battery brands, all thanks to the quality it provides and this MR127 is no different. It is a maintenance-free, deep-cycle battery that works perfectly with your trolling motor. The fact that it comes with a 200-minute reserve capacity adds to its value.

The first thing to note about the battery is that it weighs around 68 pounds. Though it is not heavy, I would definitely cast it a little on the bulky side, given that it will be used in the water. That said, you are also getting a high reserve capacity and a higher runtime for better efficiency.

It is a 100 amp hour battery setup that I typically use the motor with this battery for around eight hours and even then, it does not use an entire ten percent of the battery. Plus, it has an AGM design, which means better energy efficiency and no chances of spillages,

Final thoughts: This VMAX MR127 is Best Battery for Trolling Motor for anyone in search of something durable and spill resistant. Its absorbed glass mat or AGM design helps you save energy and feel secure about its performance in the water. Plus, the long-running time makes it worth the money.

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2. Interstate Batteries Deep Cycle Mobility Battery

The runner-up on my list of the best batteries for trolling motors is the Interstate mobility battery for its small size. It is specifically designed for kayaks and small fishing boats with a decent run time and reasonable weight. Moreover, the AGM style makes it suitable for outdoor use.

At first sight, you will see it has a sealed Lead acid design that is necessary to make it maintenance-free and spill-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about actively checking distilled water. It also weighs around 22.9 pounds, which is fairly light and allows for easy mounting.

Now, with the small size, do note that you will be cutting down on power and capacity. This one is a 12V battery with 35 AH runtime, which is more than enough to run your kayak trolling motor for an entire day. Lastly, I would say charging it also doesn’t require a lot of time.

In conclusion, this Interstate AGM battery is a popular choice for many anglers who are restricted by their budget and need above-average performance. It has a compact and lightweight sealed design that offers a 35 amp hour run time and a quick-charging facility.

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3. OPTIMA OPT 8016-103 Deep Cycle Marine Battery

If you are an angler who wants a medium-heavy marine battery for their trolling motor, there is nothing better than Optima OPT 8016. It is a dual-purpose battery with an unusual spiral design. In addition, the portable size and lightweight make it easy for anglers to handle.

First, this battery weighs around 43.5 pounds, which is lighter than usual, so you won’t have issues handling them. Next, it is a dual-purpose battery that offers 750 CCA output, both cranking and ignition amp. Thus, you can use it in extreme weather conditions without any ignition issues.

Similarly, it has a 55AH power that can last you during tough and lengthy motor boating days. In case you are running low on the battery, this one also comes with a 120-minute reserve capacity that works wonders for your trips. Finally, installing it is equally easy, even for new anglers.

Wrapping up, this Optima deep-cycle marine battery is a lighter version of VMAX MR127, owing to its dual-purpose AGM design. It comes with a 120-minute reserve time and 55 amp hour power time that serve you well. Also, it is perfectly apt to survive icy cold weather.

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4. VMAX MR137 AGM Sealed Marine AGM Battery

Coming from VMAX, this MR137 is a perfect choice for running trolling motors under extreme conditions. This AGM-sealed marine battery is maintenance and spill-free, suitable for us lazy anglers out there. It further has tin alloys for extra margins of energy efficiency when in action.

The first thing to appreciate about the battery is its smart electrolyte suspension mechanism. This makes the seal relatively high in porosity, making the battery effective in resisting shocks and absorption despite the harsh conditions. For this, they have used no silica gel.

Here, the battery has a 120 AH runtime, which is pretty long for kayaks of almost all sizes. It also recovers quickly from repeated discharges, so you can use it for extended periods without replacing it. The only downside is that its installation can be tricky with a heavy structure.

In conclusion, this VMAX MR137 trolling motor battery is a great choice for big and heavy fishing boats. It comes with an AGM design and high porosity that resists shock and helps anglers in countering spill damage. Simply put, this battery is all set for harsh, icy conditions.

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5. Universal Power Group AGM DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery

Here comes yet another sealed AGM battery for better energy output and no maintenance from Universal Power Group. This deep-cycle battery operates on Lead Dioxide, providing you with a quick and straightforward experience. Despite the price, it also has a large reserve capacity.

At first sight, it is a slightly bulky battery that can go anywhere around 60 pounds. So, it is better if you pair it with a heavy kayak or a boat that is extremely stable. Similarly, this battery has a 100 Amp Hour running time, which can readily operate a heavy and lengthy kayak trolling motor.

In addition, this Universal Power battery uses lead oxide plates and is submerged in sulfuric acid solution to produce electric energy, making it a maintenance-free alternative. Hence, you do not have to worry about checking distilled water constantly. Plus, there is no spill damage.

Final thoughts: This Universal Power battery is an appropriate choice for anglers who do not want to keep up with the battery continuously. The highlights of this model are its 10 amp hour running time and lead dioxide electrolyte solution. Plus, the entire thing is sealed, preventing any spill damage.

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6. Dakota Lithium – LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery

This Dakota battery is a well-suited alternative for anglers who want a compact and lightweight battery to power their kayak motor. Despite the size, this battery can easily handle 2,000 cycles at 80% discharge, which is pretty decent. It also charges up quickly with the charger included.

The first thing to note about this battery is its 17.6-pound weight, which is incredibly stable and balanced for kayaks. It is equally easy to install in a space-restricted kayak or boat. The entire battery is also sealed, so you don’t have to worry about maintaining it for future spills.

Despite the size, this battery has a 54 amp-hour running time, which is completely at par with the Optima OPT 8016. Typically, this Lithium battery can easily handle 2000 cycles at an 80% discharge, lasting for around 30 minutes. However, do note that this set of features also comes with a hefty investment.

In essence, this Dakota Lithium battery is ideal for boats and kayaks where space and weight can be an issue. It has a compact size that weighs around 17.6 pounds, perfect to balance the kayak. Also, the high running time and quick-charge facility make it worth the money.

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7. Weize 12V 35AH Rechargeable Battery

For anyone restricted by the budget, this Weize rechargeable battery might be a better choice. It is the cheapest SLA battery on this list with decent running and reserve time. One thing I like best about this battery is that it is sealed, so it doesn’t burn off liquid or toxic gas.

Weize is an SLA Sealed Lead Acid battery that uses liquid electrodes to function. Here, to prevent the burning of toxic liquid or gas, the manufacturers have sealed the battery, eliminating the need for constant refills. It also resists the chances of spill damage, making it apt for outdoor use.

Another thing to appreciate about the battery is its 35 amp hour running time, which may not be the best, but definitely does the job. It can ideally power a 14-ft long boat or kayak. The only drawback is that this Weize battery needs improvement in its scope for reserve time.

In essence, this Weize SLA/ AGM battery is a pocket-friendly alternative for anglers restricted by their budget yet desire reasonable performances. It comes with a portable and sealed design that prevents liquid from getting out for better efficiency. Plus, it is equally easy to install.

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8. Deka 9A34R AGM Intimidator Battery

Lastly, I am ending my list of the best batteries for trolling motors with this Deka battery, all credit to its lightweight and protective design. Despite the lower price, this battery offers protection against deep discharge and acid leaks. Plus, it is a fairly reasonable runtime for a small fishing boat.

Speaking of the design, this one weighs only five pounds, which means it is perfect for small fishing boats and kayaks. It also makes it easy to mount, given anglers can conveniently handle this. However, if you are just starting out, it is better to get someone else’s help.

The AGM style of this Intimidator Battery makes it resistant to frozen ice and vibrations, especially if you like to fish in a colder environment. The 9-amp hour runtime is also pretty nice for such a small battery. It also comes in different sizes, so you can choose a preferred option.

In essence, the Deka 9A34R battery is an all-in-one solution for anglers just starting out with kayaks. It is a popular choice for its decent runtime and small size that works reasonably well in frozen conditions. Plus, the battery is sealed, so you won’t experience discharge or leak issues.

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How to Find the Right Battery for Trolling Motor: A Complete Guide

Choosing the best battery for a trolling motor involves thinking of multiple factors, from the type of battery you need to the design, construction quality, and run time. If you are confused and don’t know where to begin, keep on reading.

Type of Batteries

Here are the three commonly used batteries by anglers to run their trolling motor.

• Lead Acid Battery

Lead acid batteries are the most common and most affordable marine battery alternatives. These batteries operate on lead electrolyte solutions, which means they must always have the right amount of distilled water to resist corrosion. Hence, they will need maintenance and a separate battery to crank over the engine.

• Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

Almost everyone is aware of Lithium batteries, as they are by far the most efficient. These batteries are best known for their lightweight, longer lifespan, and high security as compared to the other two. Moreover, they charge quickly and last longer in one cycle; however, all this comes at the expense of high prices.

• Absorbent Glass Mat/ AGM Battery

AGM batteries are a modern alternative that uses fiberglass instead of lead acid plates. These batteries have a high cycle life and better resistance to shock and vibrations. The AGM batteries are also maintenance-free and spill-resistant, so you won’t have to refill and check them repeatedly.

Size

Now that we have discussed some common types of batteries, the first thing you need to look into while buying a battery for a trolling motor is its size. Now, it all comes down to space and distribution of the kayak or boat. For instance, if you have a smaller kayak, a compact battery would be better and vice versa.

Weight

Like size, weight is also determined by the size and weight of your boat or kayak. Let’s say you have a small fishing boat, it is better that you go for batteries ranging from 20 to 30 pounds. In comparison, for heavy fishermen’s boats, something over 30 to 60 pounds might be a better choice.

Run Time

The next thing to look into when buying the right battery for a trolling motor is its run time. Now, it is specific to the angler and the battery you are going for, and there is no one formula. But, before choosing, you should always be mindful of your fishing style in perspective, as it will determine how much time you can spend in the boat.

Maintenance Requirements

The last factor to consider here is battery maintenance, which includes battery water levels, battery storage, and voltage. In this case, I would advise you to go for sealed batteries if you have no budget restrictions. This is because these batteries are maintenance-free and don’t require you to constantly check on each thing individually.

FAQs

What kind of battery does a trolling motor use?

Typically, lead acid batteries are used to run trolling motors, as they are affordable. However, recently, the trend is shifting, and more and more anglers are turning towards lithium-ion batteries or AGM batteries, considering they are convenient and maintenance-free.

How long will a 100Ah battery run a trolling motor?

If taken care of properly, a 100Ah battery is more than capable of running a heavy (50-60 pounds thrusting) trolling motor for an entire day. However, it depends on other factors like the motor’s power consumption and the energy output of the battery.

How long will a 50Ah battery run a trolling motor?

On average, a 50Ah battery can last you for five hours when it is properly taken care of. However, do note that it also depends on the motor’s power consumption and the energy output of the battery.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right battery for a trolling motor can be challenging when you are just stepping into the fishing world. In this case, it is better that you evaluate your individual requirements and make an assessment for the right alternative. If you are still confused, here are some of my favorites from the list.

• Dakota Lithium – LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery has an easy setup and reasonable running time.
• VMAX MR137 AGM Sealed Marine AGM Battery has a highly porous AGM design that works perfectly well in extreme frozen conditions.
• OPTIMA OPT 8016-103 Deep Cycle Marine Battery is a lighter alternative with high running time and reserve time.

Finally, I hope this guide has been helpful in finding the best battery for trolling motors at a reasonable price.