Best Trolling Motor Batteries

Trolling motors are compact, electric motors that can be fitted quickly and easily to kayaks, canoes, and small boats. They’re perfect for fishing because they’re very quiet. While some people might view a trolling motor as cheating, they’re actually very useful and can help you travel further and faster, even in rougher waters.

Of course, any trolling motor is only as good as its power source, so you need to get the best trolling motor battery.

Trolling motor batteries need to fit the intended watercraft and hold enough charge to get you to where you want to go. They also need to be easy to charge, simple to maintain, and reliable in all weathers and temperatures. There are lots of different models to choose from, so picking the right one is not always easy.

For this guide, we’ve tried and tested the 12 best trolling motor batteries so you can buy with absolute confidence.

11 Best Trolling Motor Batteries

1. Universal 12V 100Ah

If you need a battery that will work in all weathers, even in extreme cold, you need an AGM battery – short for absorbed glass mat. Leakproof and maintenance-free, this Universal Power Group battery will keep working when many others fail.

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 12.17” x 6.61” x 9.16”
• Weight 69.93lbs
• 12 volts
• 100 amp-hour capacity
• Works in all temperatures – from very hot to extreme cold
• Shock and vibration proof
• Built-in carry handle
• 1-year warranty

This trolling motor battery is one tough customer. It’s made to be maintenance-free and can be used in any position. With its 100 amp-hour capacity, this big, vibration, and shock-resistant battery will run and run.

Pros

• Large capacity
• Well-priced
• 3 to 5-year lifespan
• Requires no maintenance

Cons

• Maybe too large/heavy for some kayaks
• Slow to charge

This battery is a great trolling motor option if you use a tandem fishing kayak or a small boat. But, at 60lbs, it may be too big and bulky for smaller, lighter watercraft. But, if you need a battery with a big, long-lasting capacity, and its size is not an issue, this model is a good option.

2. NorthStar NSB-AGM31M

This high capacity NorthStar AGM battery is a hefty brute! Its large capacity will keep you trolling all day long, and it’s made to last. Backed by a three-year warranty, this is a marine battery you can buy with confidence

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 14” x 11” x 10”
• Weight 75lbs
• 12 volts
• 103 amp-hour capacity
• 4 amp-hour reserve
• Fully sealed and leak proof
• Dual connection terminals
• 3-year warranty

This big battery maybe too much for smaller kayaks, but if your trolling motor is mounted on a tandem kayak or a boat, this product could be just what you are looking for. With a fast-charging time and huge capacity, this is a very reliable trolling motor battery.

Pros

• Made in the USA in a state-of-the-art battery manufacturing plant
• Large capacity
• Maintenance-free
• Durable, highly shock and vibration-resistant housing

Cons

• Very heavy

At 75lbs, this is not a light battery. It’s not very compact, either. Make sure you consider this size and weight before buying. But, if it fits your craft, this battery will provide years of reliable use.

3. Battle Born LiFePO4 

Some large-capacity trolling motor batteries are so large that they are too big for use on kayaks. This lithium-ion battery from Battle Born weighs just 31lbs, making it much more suitable for kayak use, and yet, it still has 100 amp-hours capacity.

Key Features

• Lithium-ion battery
• 12 volts
• 100 amp-hour capacity
• Dimensions 12.75” x 6.88” x 9”
• Weight 31lbs
• Built-in smart battery management system
• Good for over 3000 charging cycles

This compact, long-lasting battery will provide many years of reliable use. The built-in management system protects against lithium-ion battery issues such as overheating and unsafe operating conditions. If you need a compact battery that won’t let you down, this is the trolling motor battery you want.

Pros

• Light and compact
• Charges quickly
• Built to last
• Large capacity

Cons

• Expensive
• Prone to overheating

Lithium-ion batteries are small and light but more expensive than AGM and FLA models. They also generate a lot of heat. This battery is perfect for open areas but should not be housed in an enclosed space. Light and long-lasting, this is an ideal kayak trolling motor battery.

4. VMAX MR137-120 AGM

This heavy-duty battery is made to last, and last, and LAST! With an expected lifespan of 8-10 years, this big, high-capacity battery may well outlive your trolling motor. It may, however, be too large and heavy for use on a kayak.

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 13” x 6.8” x 8.8”
• Weight 75lbs
• 12 volts
• 120 amp-hour capacity
• Built-in handle
• Shock and vibration-resistant housing
• 1-year warranty

This is a big, powerful battery. With 120 amp-hours to call on, you won’t even need to charge this battery after every trip. This reliable battery is a big unit, but it’s a very reliable option if you’ve got the space.

Pros

• Large capacity
• Charges quickly
• Long lifespan
• Well-priced
• Robust

Cons

• Very large and heavy

AGM batteries are robust and reliable, which is what makes them ideal for use with trolling motors. This sealed marine battery has a massive 120 amp-hour capacity, so it’ll keep you moving through the water all day long!

5. Optima 8052-161 

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• 12 volts
• 81” x 6.56” x 9.38”
• Weight 59.8lbs
• 75 amp-hour capacity
• 2 ½ amp-hours reserve
• Vibration and shock-resistant housing
• Dual connection terminals
• 24-month warranty

With a capacity of 76-amp hours, this medium-range battery is ideal for lightweight boats and tandem kayaks. It’s tough and maintenance-free and charges quickly too. It’s quite heavy, but it’s compact enough to fit most small watercraft.

Pros

• Very reliable
• Tough and well-made
• Charges quickly

Cons

• Quite heavy
• There are cheaper batteries with a longer charge available

Optima are battery specialists, and their blue top products are made especially for deep cycle use. This model is ideal for powering a trolling motor and should provide many years of reliable service.

6. Mighty Max ML55 12V

Trolling motor batteries can be very expensive. Lithium-iron models can cost as much as $1000 or even more. This Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery, which is another name for AGM, is much cheaper but still powerful enough to power your trolling motor over reasonable distances.

Key Features

• SLA-type battery
• Dimensions 9.02” x 5.43” x 9.13”
• Weight 35lbs
• 55 amp-hour capacity
• 12 volts
• Maintenance-free
• 1-year warranty

If all you need is a reliable battery at a reasonable price, this battery is worth considering. It’s well-made and robust but is quite heavy and only has a medium capacity. That said, it’s excellent value for money and ideal for powering a kayak trolling motor.

Pros

• Well-priced
• Rugged and strong
• Reliable
• Charges quickly

Cons

• Quite heavy

This big, basic battery won’t win any beauty contests, but it’s good value for money and should provide years of reliable service. There are, however, similarly priced batteries that have a larger capacity.

7. Banshee D27M 

This compact battery packs a lot of power into its relatively small size. It’s one of the few products on review with a built-in battery life indicator. However, like all FLA-type batteries, this model must be kept upright to work correctly and prevent leaking.

Key Features

• FLA-type battery
• 12 volts
• 77 amp-hours
• 2 amp-hours reserve
• Weight 37lbs
• 2” x 6.8” x 8.9”
• Flip-up carry handle
• Dual connection terminals
• Hydrometer to indicate battery life
• 2-year warranty

This isn’t the heaviest battery but, at 37lbs, it’s heavy enough that the flip-up handle is really useful. Combined with the dual connection terminals and battery life indicator, this is a very easy battery to use.

Pros

• Well-designed
• Robust and reliable
• Good warranty

Cons

• Must be kept upright, or it may leak
• Requires maintenance

FLA-type batteries can leak if not kept upright. They’re powerful and reliable, even in very hot or icy environments. Still, if you anticipate using your trolling motor on rough water, a leakproof AGM or lithium-ion battery would be a better choice. It’s okay for calm waters, though.

8. Optima OPT8016-103

Optima makes some of the best deep cycle batteries around. Their blue top range is especially good for marine usage and trolling motors. This dual-purpose model is not the longest-lasting battery on review, but it still holds enough charge for a full day out on the water.

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 10” x 6.9” x 8.0”
• Weight 43.5lbs
• 55 amp-hour capacity
• 2 amp-hour reserve
• Vibration and shock-resistant housing
• Dual connection terminals
• Two-year warranty

Optima batteries feature spiral-wound cells, which, they say, produce more power than flat-plate cells. Manufacturing arguments aside, this is a good mid-range battery that is both reliable and durable. It’s an ideal battery for powering a small trolling motor.

Pros

• Can be mounted in any position
• Maintenance-free
• Robust and reliable
• Works even in extreme temperatures

Cons

• Quite expensive

Optima makes top-quality batteries, and that’s reflected in the price. You can buy cheaper, but you won’t be able to buy much better quality. If you want the most reliable batteries around, choose Optima.

9. Interstate 12V 35AH 

Do you only use your trolling motor for short periods? Is it more of a backup than your main mode of transport? If so, you don’t NEED a large capacity battery. Save money, space, and weight with this small, light, well-priced trolling battery.

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 5.16” x 6.42” x 7.68”
• Weight 22lbs
• 35 amp-hours capacity
• 12 volts
• Maintenance-free
• Spill/leakproof
• Removable carry handle
• 1-year warranty

This small but powerful battery can be mounted in any orientation. It won’t leak, even if it’s upside down. Don’t let its small size put you off; this battery still has plenty of power and will drive your trolling motor for 4-5 hours.

Pros

• Compact, lightweight battery
• Strong and reliable
• Well-priced
• Ideal for small, light watercraft, e.g., single-seater fishing kayaks

Cons

• May not last long enough for some users

If you only have a small kayak or don’t need to use your trolling motor for more than a couple of hours between charges, you don’t want to need a big, powerful battery. This compact model is ideal for smaller watercraft and motors, and buying it won’t break the bank either!

10. Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST

Odyssey batteries have a reputation for longevity. This model is rated for extreme temperatures and should provide many years of reliable usage. There are cheaper trolling batteries you can buy, but very few are as robust as this model.

Key Features

• AGM-type battery
• Dimensions 13.35” x 11” x 9.5”
• Weight 49.5lbs
• 12 volts
• 68 amp-hour capacity
• 2 amp-hours reserve
• Flip-up carry handle
• Dual connection terminals
• 12-month warranty

For its charge capacity, this is quite an expensive battery. However, it’s made to last, and the manufacturer states that it should have three times the life of other marine batteries. It’s a big, robust unit and is perfect for tandem kayaks and small boat trolling motors.

Pros

• Made to last
• Maintenance-free
• Can be used in any position
• Easy to handle

Cons

• Maybe too big for solo kayaks and smaller boats

This is quite a big battery, so make sure it will fit your watercraft before buying. It’s also heavy, but the built-in handle means it’s easy to carry. All-in-all, this is a powerful, versatile battery that should last many years.

11. Mighty Max ML100-12V

Longevity matters when you buy a trolling battery. After all, whatever model you buy, you want to get many hours of use from it. This powerful unit from Mighty max lives up to its name and is expected to last for ten years or more.

Key Features

• SLA-type battery
• 12 volts
• 100 amp-hours
• 17” x 6.61” x 8.3”
• Weight 60lbs
• Dual carry handles
• Vibration and shock-resistant housing
• 1-year guarantee

This sealed, maintenance-free battery has a high capacity, making it ideal for longer trips and heavier-weight watercraft. It’s quite big and bulky, so make sure you’ve got the space and weight capacity to carry it.

Pros

• High capacity
• Very robust and durable
• Handy carrying handles
• Maintenance-free
• Long service life

Cons

• Big and heavy
• Quite expensive

This is a powerful product aimed at demanding users who want a battery that lasts for many years. There are cheaper batteries to choose from, but this one will probably outlast most of them by a considerable margin.

Trolling Motor Battery Buyers Guide

Consider the following information before buying or using a trolling motor battery.

Battery Types

There are three main types of trolling motor battery:

Flooded lead-acid (FLA) batteries – an older technology that is gradually being phased out. FLA batteries are cheap but also prone to leaking, making them less than ideal for trolling motors.

However, performance doesn’t deteriorate with repeated discharging/recharging. On the downside, this is the least environmentally friendly type of battery.

Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries – this is the most common type of trolling motor battery.

They are sealed and don’t leak or require special maintenance. They also tend to hold their charge well and discharge slowly.

AGM batteries can be big and bulky, especially those with a large charging capacity.

AGM batteries work well in the cold but are not so reliable in hot environments.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries – this is the smallest type of trolling battery. It’s the same type of battery that’s in your phone or laptop.

They charge quickly, retain their charge for longer, and are very light and compact.

On the downside, li-ion batteries get very hot with long periods of use. They are also very expensive.

Battery Run Time

Battery run time depends on a few different factors. The main indicator of expected battery life is the amperage per hour rating.

Trolling motors can range from 30 amp-hours to 100+ amp-hours. The higher the number, the longer your trolling motor battery will last.

However, things like weather and speed will also affect how long your battery lasts.

The harder your motor has to work, the faster you’ll deplete your charge. Most users should buy the battery with the highest amp-hour capacity they can afford. However, larger capacity batteries are usually larger, heavier, more expensive, and take longer to charge.

What is the right size battery for a trolling motor?

All review specifications include battery dimensions and its weight. That’s because the size of the battery depends on where you are going to use it.

If you have fitted a lightweight trolling motor to a single-seater kayak, you won’t have space or the weight capacity for a large battery that weighs 75lbs.

However, if your motor is fitted to a boat, space and weight are less important. Measure the space available and determine how much weight you can carry to choose the correct size trolling motor battery.

What is a deep-cycle battery?

A deep cycle battery is designed to be fully discharged and then recharged. Their performance does not degrade with repeated charges or, if it does, any degradation is very small. This ensures the battery has a long life.

In contrast, “cranking” batteries, like those found in a car, are designed for a high-power output but minimal discharge, such as when starting an automotive engine.

The level of discharge is very small, and they’re then recharged by the alternator soon after. You should not use a cranking battery to power a trolling motor. Instead, you should connect a deep cycle or dual-mode battery to your trolling motor.

Battery Maintenance

Most trolling motor batteries are maintenance-free. They’re sealed to keep their contents in and the water out.

The only exception to this is flooded lead-acid (FLA) batteries, which periodically need to be topped up with distilled water. However, this type of battery is prone to leaking, not very environmentally friendly, and not all that common. FLA batteries are not the best choice for trolling motors.

How to Charge the Battery

Battery charging differs between types of battery and models.

Li-ion batteries are often just plugged directly into an AC outlet and charge in a matter of 2-3 hours.

Other batteries will need a special charger and can take 8-12 hours to fully recharge. Refer to and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to charge your battery safely and to maximize performance.

What is the best battery for a Minn Kota

According to Minn Kota, the best battery for one of their trolling motors is “any lead-acid, deep cycle marine 12-volt battery.” They also recommend that any battery has at least a 110 amp-hour capacity (1).

From this review, that means only #5 is suitable, although you could conceivably link and “daisy chain” two or more batteries to achieve this standard.

How to avoid corrosion

Keep your battery in good condition by storing it properly between uses. Wipe any water from it, paying extra attention to the terminals, and then store it in a cool, dry place.

Cover the terminals in a thin layer of dielectric tune-up grease to prevent corrosion, but only once you’ve removed all traces of water. Store your battery with at least a 50% charge.

This will not affect corrosion but will maximize battery life.

Bottom Line

With so many options available, choosing the best trolling motor is not an easy process. Hopefully, our reviews have made things easier! To narrow down your choice, consider the following:

• Battery type
• Amperage per hour rating
• Budget

The battery type means choosing between an FLA, AGM, or li-ion battery. FLAs are becoming increasingly rare, while li-ion batteries tend to be very expensive, although they are small, light, and charge quickly.

AGM batteries hold the middle ground between FLA and li-ion batteries and, for most people, are the best choice. The amperage per hour rating determines how long your trolling motor battery will run before it needs recharging. In the main, a higher amp-hour rating is better as it means you’ll be able to go further per charge.

On the downside, higher amp-hour ratings usually mean bigger batteries, a higher cost, and slower recharging times.

The final thing to consider is your budget. Trolling motor batteries can range from under $100 to over $1000, and more expensive doesn’t always mean better. Set your budget and then stick to it. You should be financially comfortable with your purchase and not worrying about what your bank manager will say!

Armed with this information, you should have much less trouble tracking down the best trolling motor battery. Use our reviews to help you make an informed decision.

For more expert product reviews visit the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage.

References:

1. Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. 2020. Battery and Wiring Installation. https://www.minnkotamotors.com/sites/minnkotamotors_site/files/min_productmanual_batt-wire-selct-gde.pdf