Introduction
Like hunting, fishing requires stealth, which has not been achieved in the past years with engine boats. However, with the invention of trolling motors, anglers can now own the waters and go fishing in stealth mode. There are several trolling motors on the market, but not all offer the complete adventure feel. Therefore, one must go for the best mini trolling motors.
The best mini trolling motors consist of high-quality materials that last for a long while to provide the propelling force that every angler’s boat needs. The GPS also provides top-notch features that locks the boat in place even through high currents and tides, keeping the boat owner assured at all times.
This review walks boat owners through the best mini trolling motors and what makes them special.
Why Choose The Best Mini Trolling Motors
Since the emergence of mini trolling motors, boat owners have been able to gain complete control of their boats. This is especially true for fishermen, as this device allows the swift sail, even in harsh waters, to get a nice catch of their desire. Also, the added GPS feature has taken the experience to a whole another level. Sailors and fishermen can now fix boats’ positions without fear of the current.
Some of the reasons to get a mini trolling motor are:
It provides more fishing possibilities
Trolling motors are ideal for fishing. With a trolling motor, one can move on water smoothly without scaring away the fish. There are fishes like Blackfish, and Scup that are fond of staying in one place; which makes it harder to catch. Therefore, one must be able to move quickly and precisely. It’s also not a problem if one needs to change locations during the trip. There’s no need to use the loud main engine for this; remove the anchor and replace it.
It has multiple control features
The control features of a trolling motor are straightforward to operate. Also, The variety of options available with a trolling motor makes boat control more enjoyable. It is possible to steer with feet, hands, co-pilot, etc.
It has GPS to lock on the position
This is an excellent feature of a trolling motor. There is a GPS in the motor and it locks in the position of the boat at will to allow the boat owner to concentrate on other things. This means that the boat cannot move out of its position even when affected by wind or current. This is a good investment.
It works in shallow and deep waters
There are shallow water spots that are excellent for fishing but are tough to maintain silence in. For loud boats, stealth fishing is out of the question, so installing a trolling motor on the boat makes it easier.
It is easy to install and take off
It does not take a special skill to install a trolling motor on a boat. Even a novice can do it with detailed instructions. Although every motor comes with a different manual to install, it depends on the brand. The main criterion for selection is the part of the boat on which it will be mounted. Smaller boats, such as kayaks, use the type that is installed on the transom, whereas larger boats, which require the most benefit from the motor, are installed on the bow.
It helps the environment
Trolling motors are simple to operate, produce no harmful spills, and emit no noise. One does not also harm the ecosystem in which the fish lives. As a result, the boat does not cause any disturbance to the local flora, fauna, and other boat owners.
It is very powerful
These days, powerful trolling motors are available that can keep even a large boat in saltwater in an exact location. Strong winds and currents are also no longer an issue as the motor can work in harsh waters. Nowadays, motors are designed specifically for the saltwater environment, which poses a serious threat to the durability of many materials.
The Best Mini Trolling Motors
These mini trolling motors consist of a very fine and sleek, durable design made of Aluminium, plastics, and glass. This compilation consists of trolling motors high in demand by boat owners.
Some of the best mini trolling motors are:
MotorGuide Xi3 Wireless Freshwater Trolling Motor:
This motor is very convenient and simple, even though one of its downsides is that it is restricted to only freshwater. MotorGuide Xi3 has high-tech features like on-screen control displays, integrated sonar, and advanced precision pinpoint GPS.
The pinpoint GPS provides excellent navigation features like cruise control, heading lock, and precise anchoring. The remote control is also very functional; and it makes it easy to steer.
Features of the MotorGuide Xi3 Wireless Freshwater Trolling Motor
- It weighs 44 pounds.
- It is a bow mounting type.
- It runs on 12V.
- It has a wireless remote control.
Pros
- It has a wireless remote control.
- It is energy efficient.
- It has innovative mounting features.
- It is simple to store and deploy the boat.
Cons
- The motor only moves in one direction at top speed.
- It is used only in freshwater.
Newport Vessels L-series Trolling Motor:
This motor provides top-tier performance with an adjustable 40-inch shaft made of fiberglass composite material. It is ideal for all Newport vessels, personal watercraft, inflatable boats, and other small boats with transom mounts.
It also has an 8-speed option for a decent speed. The motor weighs 62 pounds and has three blades that propel the boat forward. The 10-point LED battery meter helps to monitor the motor’s energy and keep the sailor prepared at all times.
Features of the Newport Vessels L-series Trolling Motor
- It has an electric mode of operation.
- It is made with fibre glass, aluminium, and plastic.
- It runs on 12V.
- It has 2-years warranty.
Pros
- It has a bright LED display that shows the battery reading.
- It is highly durable.
- The hardware is compatible with saltwater.
- It has a telescopic handle and eight speeds.
Cons
- Most of the parts are not waterproof.
- There are no brackets.
- It is basically built for Newport’s vessels.
Seamax PowerMax 2HP Brushless Trolling Motor:
This is one of Seamax’s best creations. It works smoothly and operates quietly; this provides an excellent experience from offshore to lake use. The motor is also highly resistant to corrosion thanks to the anode built in the motor.
Another thing that makes it stand out is its adjustable motor shaft, which allows it to fit nearly all small to medium-sized watercraft. The technology behind the motor definitely meets the 21st century standards.
Features of the Seamax PowerMax 2HP Brushless Trolling Motor
- It is made of Aluminum, Alloy steel.
- It runs on 12V.
- It is a transom mounting type.
- It weighs 65 pounds.
- It has 2-year warranty.
Pros
- It works on an advanced technology system.
- It is highly durable and can stay for a long while.
- It operates smoothly.
- It has an anti-theft feature.
Cons
- It is not completely waterproof.
- When it runs at a fast speed, it becomes loud.
U-BCOO 8 Speed Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor:
This motor is multi-purposed and has a high quality. The lightweight is also one of its perks that makes it stand out from quite a number of motors out there. Over the years, many people have made this the motor of choice for some reason. It is used for entertainment, fishing boats, and several other activities.
The extendable 4-inch handle is also very convenient. It makes it easy so that the users can relax and sail with ease. This also aids in easy control.
Features of U-BCOO 8 Speed Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
- It is made of Stainless-steel and Aluminum materials.
- It has an electric mode of operation.
- It is a transom mounting type.
- It runs on 12V.
Pros
- It doesn’t generate much heat.
- It is made of stainless-steel hardware suitable for saltwater.
- It has a very nice LED display.
- It is highly durable.
Cons
- It causes too much vibration, especially at high speed.
- It is best for saltwater.
- The control shaft deviates from the path.
Newsport Vessels Mossy Oak Camouflage Trolling Motor:
This motor boasts a 55 pounds thrust that is efficient and ultra-quiet, providing one with an enjoyable boating experience. The design of this motor is quite beautiful. This is definitely worth checking for anyone that loves a different design.
Furthermore, this trolling motor comprises a hardware that makes it compatible with saltwater and freshwater. The hardware is made of magnesium, zinc, and stainless steel.
Features of Newsport Vessels Mossy Oak Camouflage Trolling Motor
- It is made of Zinc, Aluminum, and Magnesium.
- It has 2-years warranty.
- It runs on 12V.
- It is a transom mounting type.
Pros
- It has a battery meter to check energy.
- The motor is highly compatible with saltwater.
- It has an efficient handle and eight-speed options that ensures maximum control.
- It has a sleek design.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a battery.
- The handle and the head are not waterproof.
Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor:
The Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor is designed to meet one’s needs. It provides toughness, easy control, and instant response. It also includes a lever lock bracket that allows one to lift and rotate the directional indicator up to 180 degrees and begin back trolling.
The 8-speed setting is also awesome. It makes it simple to switch speeds at intervals all through the sail. This significantly helps to conserve battery life.
Features of Minn Kota Endura Transom Mount Trolling Motor
- It weighs 27 pounds.
- It runs on 12V.
- It is a ransom mounting type.
- It has a lever-lock bracket.
Pros
- It is completely soundproof.
- The telescoping tiller is convenient for steering.
- It has an unbreakable composite shaft.
- It is easy to control.
Cons
- It is suitable for only freshwater.
- It doesn’t come with a battery.
AQUOS Haswing Transom Trolling Motor.
The AQUOS Haswing Transom Trolling Motor is promising. The motor provides excellent control, with five forward and three reverse speeds that enable one to dial in the perfect amount of speed suitable. Aside from that, as one of the best trolling motors for small boats, it has more to grant.
The 110-degree folding handle provides a movable helm for smooth fishing movement. There is also a readable power indicator display that one can use to check the motor’s energy. Because of the rock-solid gear lock bracket made of Aluminium, it is possible to tilt the motor into ten different positions. This makes it easy to deploy and pack up the small boat.
Features of AQUOS Haswing Transom Trolling Motor
- It weighs 26 pounds.
- It is made of Aluminum.
- It runs on 12V.
- It has an electric mode of operation.
- It has a wireless remote.
Pros
- It works perfectly well on both saltwater and freshwater.
- It is very portable and light.
- It is not hard to install.
- It can is easy to adjust.
Cons
- It is very noisy.
- The control can easily be damaged.
Watersnake Saltwater Trolling Motor.
The Watersnake saltwater trolling motor is a must-pick when it comes to power and functionality. This motor has a sturdy yet simple design that is flexible with the tiller-steer transom-mounting options. It is also suitable for use in saltwater. Because of the multiple propellers, it gives complete control.
Each propeller shaft is made of stainless steel and features weedless design props to help one enjoy their sail. Furthermore, the motor runs on 12V and has five forward and three reverse speeds that are controlled by the tiller handle throttle.
Features of Watersnake Saltwater Trolling Motor
- It weighs 11 pounds.
- It runs on 12V.
- It is an electric lift type.
- It is made with very light materials.
Pros
- It is highly compatible with small boats.
- The handle is extendable.
- It is easy to attach.
- It is easy to steer.
- It is very portable.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a battery.
- It doesn’t come with brackets.
Final Thoughts
Fishing can be physically demanding, although it doesn’t have to be. The best mini trolling motors use cutting-edge technology to give anglers the best fishing experience possible.
