10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor is a solid choice for anglers looking for powerful and precise control on freshwater boats. Its brushless motor offers excellent thrust and runs quietly on 24V or 36V, which means you get strong, smooth performance without disturbing the water too much. The 72-inch shaft length is good for medium to larger boats, providing plenty of clearance in various water conditions.

One of the standout features is the FreeSteer joystick remote with a color LCD, allowing easy and intuitive steering. Additionally, the wireless foot pedal offers flexible, hands-free control, which is great for multitasking while fishing. The HDI nosecone helps with improved positioning accuracy, thanks to built-in GPS technology, making it easier to hold your boat steady or follow precise routes. The motor weighs about 74 pounds, so it may be a bit heavy for those who want a very lightweight setup or need to frequently remove the motor. The carbon-fiber infused composite materials make it durable yet not overly bulky.

This motor is designed for serious freshwater fishermen who value power, precision, and versatile control options, though it might be more than casual or budget-conscious users require.

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.

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.