Best Fishing Kayak with Trolling Motor

How We Chose the Best Fishing Kayaks with Trolling Motor?

Top 5 Best Fishing Kayaks with Electric Motors

What to Look For When Choosing the Best Fishing Kayak with Motor?

When choosing what motor fishing kayak to buy, there are certain features that you need to look out for to make sure you’re getting the best one according to your needs, preference, and fishing style. By checking such features, you can also ensure a safe, more convenient, and comfortable fishing experience.

So what are the features that you need to consider when choosing a kayak built in trolling motor? Well, here’s a complete guide to help you out.

Size

Size matters when it comes to fishing kayaks with trolling motors. This will give you an idea of how efficient it will be on the water and how long it can run on batteries. See, with the right motor size, it won’t work as hard. Thus, it won’t drain your batteries as fast. 

So how will you know what motor size you need? Well, here are some of the most important features you should check out:

• Thrust: This is a motor’s power whereas the bigger it is, the more thrust and power it has. So how much power do you need? Well, it depends on your kayak’s weight, including your own weight and gear. The general rule is that for a 100-pound vessel, you’ll need at least 2 lbs of thrust. This means that if you’re hauling a 50-pound gear and you’re around 200 lbs on a 50-pound kayak, then you’ll need an electric fishing kayak motor with at least 6 lbs of thrust. 

If you usually go fishing where there’s a strong current or wind, then you’ll need more thrust. 

• Volts: This will tell you how much battery the motor needs. Generally, a 12V motor will require 1 battery, whereas 12V has about a 55-pound of thrust or less. So if you need more power, you may need more batteries. That said, keep in mind that you’re using a kayak. So space will be limited. 

Water Type

The type of water you are planning to fish from can greatly affect the kayak and motor that you should buy. If you frequently go to saltwater, then you have to look for something that’s saltwater-ready. This means that its materials are more resistant to rusting. Thus, making it more durable. For fishing excursions in the ocean, it is vital that you get the most durable and efficient motor possible. That said, a saltwater motor will also work in freshwater. 

On the other hand, if you only fish in slow-moving waters, ponds, and lakes, you can go with a fishing kayak with built in trolling motor designed for freshwater use. 

Steering

Fishing kayaks with motors can be steered in different ways. Some are equipped with a tiller handle, which you’ll need to control by hand. Some use cables that are connected to the motor and the foot pedal for steering. Finally, newer models can be controlled by a remote. 

So which one should you go with? Well, it depends on what you need. If you’re looking for a kayak with a motor that you can quickly install and remove, then you may want to consider a hand-controlled one. For a completely hands-free experience while going to your destination or while fishing, then choose a cable-steered model. 

On the other hand, if you want the most advanced fishing kayak motor, then you can go with a remote-controlled type. It offers the easiest way to control your vessel and a lot of extras to make your fishing experience more efficient. Take note, however, that this type is also the most expensive motor on the market. 

Technologies

When choosing which kayak with built in trolling motor to get, you should consider what technologies matter to you. See, some motors, especially those from Minn Kota, offer lots of advanced functions to make your fishing more efficient and comfortable. 

For instance, Minn Kota has an i-Pilot feature where the motor uses GPS to record and retrace your path, common speed and steering, lock onto your favorite fishing spots, and more. There are also motors with an Autopilot feature, which allows you to stay in the right direction while automatically and intelligently steering your boat for you. 

Furthermore, newer models feature the Spot-Lock technology, which helps hold your vessel in the same spot despite the current or wind. This is incredibly useful for anglers as you’re able to keep your hands free to fight a fish, cast, or change lures. 

Now, if a simple motor with no technologies already work for you or you’re only starting with fishing kayaks with motor, then there’s no reason for you to go with the most advanced and feature-packed model available. Besides, keep in mind that with more features, the more expensive it will be. 

Length

Aside from the motor, you should also check a kayak’s length. This will give you an idea of its performance as well as the type of water it’s best suited for. Long kayaks (12ft and longer), for example, are ideal for open and large bodies of water. This is because they’re faster and more efficient in cutting through waves and currents. Meanwhile, short kayaks (11ft and less) are better for small bodies of water as they are easier to control and maneuver. 

Weight

You should also check the kayak’s weight and consider how you’ll take it from your home to the water and back. For instance, if you are planning to put it on top of your SUV, then you have to look for a lighter model. On the other hand, if you’re transporting it with a trailer or truck, then the weight won’t matter as much. 

Speaking of a kayak’s weight, you have to keep in mind that a fishing kayak motorized model will always be heavier than a traditional paddle type. It gets even worse when you have to put in all your gear. This is why most of them are too heavy to be carried by hand by one person. So if you don’t have a kayak cart or landing gear, then consider investing in one. 

Comfort

One of the most important things you need to look out for is the kayak seat. Since you will be sitting for an extended time, you’ll need a seat that will provide you with the most support and comfort. Ideally, it should be elevated as this will make it easier for you to shift from sitting to a standing position. This will also give you a better vantage point for fishing. Aside from that, make sure to look for a seat that is breathable and well-ventilated. 

Fishing-Specific Features and Storage Options

Lastly, consider looking for a fishing kayak motorized model with as many features for fishing. This can help make your fishing excursions and trips more efficient and comfortable. Rod holders, for example, are a great way to organize and keep your fishing rods protected while you’re cruising the water. They can also help you keep your rods out of the way or set up multiple fishing rods simultaneously. 

Other handy features that you should look out for include tracks or mounts for adding your accessories like camera, GPS, camera, and others. A transducer mount will also make it easier for you to install a fish finder without drilling holes in your vessel. 

Additionally, keep an eye out for a kayak’s storage options. The more places where you can keep your fishing gear safe and dry, the better. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How fast can a kayak go with a trolling motor?

A: The fastest a kayak can go with a trolling motor is typically 5 miles per hour. This depends on how heavy the vessel is, its design, and the water’s condition. To reach this ideal speed, you want about 10 lbs of thrust per 100 lbs of weight.

Q: Do trolling motors scare fish?

A: No, trolling motors do not scare fish when in regular operation. For instance, if you keep the motor running consistently at 50% power, then it won’t have that much effect on the fish you’re trying to catch. However, if there’s a change in the wind or the current suddenly switches direction, then the motor will try to correct the kayak’s position. As it does, the vibration and thrust that it will create can spook out the fish in the area.