The 7 Best Kayak Or Canoe Trolling Motors

Trolling motors are popular in the canoe-kayak world for one main reason – they eliminate the need for paddling. Even if you have perfected your J-stroke, you will find it quite hard to manually troll for fish for more than an hour. A kayak trolling motor will be a must if you have decided to step up your fishing game or just want to get to the best lake spots before anyone else. Here are our picks for the seven best trolling motors suitable for canoes and kayaks.

1. Best Rated

Some people prefer going for an investment that will pay off for years to come. The Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC is the trolling motor that stands out above the rest. It is faster and quieter than any other motor you will find out there.

The Torqueedo Ultralight features a built-in GPS, solar charging, and the equivalent of 3HP. With its mere 15kg of weight, this trolling motor fits on almost all types of canoes and kayaks.

2. Best for Travelling

It’s no secret that kayaking and traveling go hand in hand. If you like exploring different spots, the Torqeedo Travel 1003 S might be the option for you. Apart from weighing as little as 14kg, it is also very convenient for transportation as it dismantles in order to save space.

This trolling motor is an environmentally-friendly option, thanks to its solar battery. An on-board computer with a GPS is another benefit of this versatile product. Overall, we recommend this motor for people who are constantly on the move.

3. Lightest

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a trolling motor. If lightness is your highest priority, then the Torqeedo Ultralight 403 Trolling Motor might be perfect for you. In its essence, it is a 1HP motor that weighs only 8.9 kg, including battery.

The motor can adapt to most popular types of canoes and kayaks. It will take you through inland waters or the sea with its maximum speed of 10km/h. This option is suitable for you if you want to carry as little weight as possible.

4. Best for Saltwater

Anyone who has used a trolling motor in the sea knows that the salt can be very corrosive for this type of equipment. If you prefer fishing in the sea or the ocean, you will need a motor that can handle saltwater.

The Newport Vessels L-Series is a series of trolling motors with thrust ranging from 62lbs to 86lbs, depending on your specific needs. These motors are ready to hit the salty water thanks to their stainless steel, zinc, and magnesium hardware. If this is not enough to convince you, the LED display and eight different speeds will surely persuade you to give this motor a chance.

5. Best Transom Mount Motor

There are many different ways to mount a motor to your canoe or kayak. A transom-mounted trolling motor is the go-to choice for canoe fishing. The Minn Kota Endura is a great example of this specific type of motors.

This indestructible motor features a 10-position bracket with a quick-release lever lock that resists flexing, warping, and UV damage. The motor is easy to mount to the transom of your canoe, and with its eight speed settings, it will make your fishing experience a real breeze.

6. Best Foot-operated kayak trolling motor

To those fishing enthusiasts who prefer a hands-free experience, we would recommend a great foot-operated trolling motor such as the Motorguide 940200060. The foot-control unit with heel/toe design and the directional indicator will allow you to focus on what really matters – having a good time.

7. Most versatile

If you want a trolling motor you can mount to kayaks, canoes, and inflatable fishing boats, the YUEWO Trolling Motor is the one you should go for. It is suitable for saltwater conditions, thanks to magnesium, zinc, and stainless-steel hardware.

Apart from being highly functional, the YUEWO is also easy to use as it features an ergonomic extendable handle and a colorful power display. This motor is a reliable multipurpose option.

Wrap up

Trolling motors can transform your kayaking or canoeing experience by letting you relax and enjoy the views around you. These pieces of equipment are essential for serious fishing as they can help you troll for fish more efficiently. The seven motors on this list are the best and most trustworthy motors you can find on the market. We hope we have made your search for your kayak trolling motor easier.