10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

The Minn Kota Ulterra Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor is a strong choice for serious freshwater anglers looking for power and advanced controls. Its 80-pound thrust and 24-volt system provide solid propulsion for maneuvering a range of boats efficiently. The 45-inch composite shaft is durable and suitable for various water depths, giving good flexibility for different fishing environments. This motor stands out with its smart features like Auto Stow & Deploy and Power Trim, which let you control the motor easily using a wireless remote, foot pedal, or smartphone app—convenient for staying focused on fishing without constant manual adjustments.

One of the biggest advantages is the built-in Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, which offers clear fish and bottom structure readings without extra equipment clutter. The advanced GPS trolling system with Spot-Lock and Drift Mode helps maintain your position precisely, even in windy or current-heavy waters, which is a big help for staying on productive spots. The digital maximizer extends battery life by adjusting power use efficiently, making it possible to fish longer on a single charge. The bow-mount setup is ideal for anglers who want better boat control and visibility while fishing.

The motor is on the heavier side (over 67 pounds), so installation or removal might require some effort. It’s designed primarily for freshwater, so saltwater users might need to confirm compatibility or take extra care. While the tech features are excellent, they can have a learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with GPS and app integration. Also, at this price point, it’s a significant investment more suited to dedicated anglers who want advanced control and durability. The Minn Kota Ulterra delivers powerful thrust, smart GPS features, and excellent battery management, making it a great option for anglers who value precision and convenience on freshwater fishing trips.

The Minn Kota 1363585 Riptide PowerDrive is a robust trolling motor designed for saltwater fishing, offering a significant 70 lb. thrust and a 54-inch shaft, making it suitable for larger boats. One of its standout features is the Advanced GPS Trolling System, allowing for precise navigation, speed, and steering control via a simple micro remote. This is particularly beneficial for anglers who require consistent boat positioning.

The Deploy-Assist Lever simplifies getting in and out of the water, while the Advanced Corrosion Protection ensures the motor's durability in harsh saltwater conditions. Additionally, the Digital Maximizer technology helps extend battery life by providing only the necessary amount of power, making it possible to fish for extended periods without frequent battery changes. The Push-to-Test Battery Meter is a handy feature for quickly checking the battery's charge status.

On the downside, this motor requires a 24-volt battery system, which means additional investment if you don't already have one. Weighing around 20.87 kilograms, it might be on the heavier side for some users, making installation and handling a bit cumbersome. The product is backed by a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind. It's a solid choice for serious anglers who need a reliable and feature-rich trolling motor for saltwater use.

The Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a robust trolling motor designed for serious anglers looking for reliability and advanced features. With an 80 lb. thrust and a 60-inch shaft, this motor is ideal for heavier boats. Its 24-volt electric engine ensures strong performance and efficiency.

One standout feature is the advanced GPS trolling system, which offers precise navigation, speed control, and the ability to hold your position with Spot-Lock. This is perfect for maintaining your position over productive fishing spots without constant manual adjustments. The Drift Mode is a handy addition, allowing automatic speed and course control, which is great in variable water conditions. The Digital Maximizer is another highlight, extending battery life significantly by providing only the necessary power, ensuring you can fish all day long without worrying about running out of battery.

The indestructible composite shaft, guaranteed for life, adds to the motor's durability, making it a long-term investment. However, it does come with a few drawbacks. The 24-volt system might require dual battery setups, which can be more cumbersome and expensive than a single 12-volt system. At 23.59 kilograms, it's relatively heavy, which may be a consideration for some users when mounting or transporting the motor. Additionally, while loaded with features, the Riptide Terrova is positioned at a higher price point, which might be a barrier for some budget-conscious buyers.

In summary, the Minn Kota 1363786 Riptide Terrova is a feature-rich, durable trolling motor suited for advanced anglers who value top-notch navigation and extended battery life but may require a larger budget and dual battery setup.