If you’re an angler like me, you know the importance of having the right gear for every fishing trip. One piece of equipment that can make or break your day on the water is a reliable trolling motor.
Saltwater trolling motors are built to handle the corrosive effects of the ocean while providing smooth, quiet propulsion to keep you on top of the fish.
Over the years, I’ve tested several trolling motors to find the ones that truly stand out. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best saltwater trolling motors of 2026, along with their pros and cons.
Our Top Picks of The Best Saltwater Trolling Motors for Large and Small Boats
- QUEST Series Technology: 24/36V dual-voltage brushless motor with redesigned mounts, propellers, and lift assist systems for superior performance and extended durability on the water; Designed with indestructible carbon-fiber infused shaft
- Effortless Deploy & Stow: Fall-away ramps easily slide your motor into the water and Auto Park technology automatically orients the lower unit into the perfect stow position
- Precision GPS Trolling System with Spot-Lock and Jog: Maintains precise position and allows you to move your locked position 5 feet in any direction; Equipped with drift mode, follow mode, and dodge mode to navigate any environment
- One-Touch Deploy & Stow Lever: Fall-away ramps easily slide your motor into the water
- Precision GPS Trolling System with Spot-Lock and Jog: Maintains precise position and allows you to move your locked position 5 feet in any direction; Equipped with drift mode, follow mode, and dodge mode to navigate any environment
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
- Advanced GPS Trolling System: Set Spot-Lock to maintain your precise position and control speed and steering using the most trusted GPS navigation system in fishing
- Deploy-Assist Lever: Simply push the lever to deploy your trolling motor into the water and when it’s time to move, it stows easily and securely
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
- Advanced GPS Trolling System: Set Spot-Lock to maintain your precise position and control speed and steering using the most trusted GPS navigation system in fishing
- Deploy-Assist Lever: Simply push the lever to deploy your trolling motor into the water and when it’s time to move, it stows easily and securely
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
- Advanced GPS Trolling System: Set Spot-Lock to maintain your precise position and control speed and steering using the most trusted GPS navigation system in fishing
- Deploy-Assist Lever: Simply push the lever to deploy your trolling motor into the water and when it’s time to move, it stows easily and securely
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
- Tilt & Extend Tiller: Customize your operating position with a tiller that tilts up to 45-degrees and extends up to 6-inches for comfortable operation and maximum control; Push-to-test battery meter integrated with motor head
- Latch & Door Bracket: Provides a secure hold while stowing your trolling motor and makes for easy removal at the end of the day
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
- Haswing Cayman T 12V 55LBS Trolling Motor aimed at fishermen who require the versatility of guiding their motor via a hand remote. The trolling motor comes standard with a hand control, sacrificial anode and encapsulated electronics. It’s equipped with one-way stepless speed control. The depth height can easily be adjusted, so you can motor in virtually any water. It’s features 3 levels LED battery power reader. Suitable for both salt and fresh water.
- Offer 0 – 85 degree titling position, so it can easily be tilted in and out of the water when the depth or fishing condition change
- Motor Fin: Separated design for propeller protection
- Built for Freshwater & Saltwater: Designed for all water use, Haswing Trolling Motor features enhanced corrosion resistance, thanks to a sacrificial anode that safeguards critical metal parts. The 26inch aluminum alloy shaft fits a wide range of boat types – just be sure to secure the shaft before adjusting depth to prevent slipping. The underwater adjustable shaft length is approximately 16 in.
- Wireless Remote: Operate with the palm-sized remote that fits comfortably in hand or attaches around neck/belt with the included lanyard. Control your boat from up to 164 feet away, whether on board or along the shore. With USB-rechargeable convenience via power bank for uninterrupted use.
- Efficient Power & Safe Disconnect: 55lbs Thrust – this 12v electric trolling motor provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. Supports boats up to 2750LBS with an 18ft maximum recommended length. The Power Cable features a safe plug-in design for instant emergency disconnection.
- Built for Freshwater & Saltwater: Designed for all water use, Haswing Trolling Motor features enhanced corrosion resistance, thanks to a sacrificial anode that safeguards critical metal parts. The 54inch aluminum alloy shaft fits a wide range of boat types – just be sure to secure the shaft before adjusting depth to prevent slipping. The underwater adjustable shaft length is approximately 44.3 in.
- Wireless Remote: Operate with the palm-sized remote that fits comfortably in hand or attaches around neck/belt with the included lanyard. Control your boat from up to 164 feet away, whether on board or along the shore. With USB-rechargeable convenience via power bank for uninterrupted use.
- Efficient Power & Safe Disconnect: 55lbs Thrust – this 12v electric trolling motor provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. Supports boats up to 2750LBS with an 18ft maximum recommended length. The Power Cable features a safe plug-in design for instant emergency disconnection.
- Built for Freshwater & Saltwater: Designed for all water use, Haswing Trolling Motor features enhanced corrosion resistance, thanks to a sacrificial anode that safeguards critical metal parts. The 48inch aluminum alloy shaft fits a wide range of boat types – just be sure to secure the shaft before adjusting depth to prevent slipping. The underwater adjustable shaft length is approximately 38.4 in.
- Wireless Remote: Operate with the palm-sized remote that fits comfortably in hand or attaches around neck/belt with the included lanyard. Control your boat from up to 164 feet away, whether on board or along the shore. With USB-rechargeable convenience via power bank for uninterrupted use.
- Efficient Power & Safe Disconnect: 55lbs Thrust – this 12v electric trolling motor provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. Supports boats up to 2750LBS with an 18ft maximum recommended length. The Power Cable features a safe plug-in design for instant emergency disconnection.
- Heel-Toe/Cable-Steer Foot Pedal: Ultra-responsive foot pedal that includes speed control, and momentary and constant on/off; Made with a high-impact composite material for durability
- Latch & Door Bracket: Provides a secure hold while stowing your trolling motor and makes for easy removal at the end of the day
- Built-In Directional Indicator: Stay oriented on the water with the easy-to-read directional indicator built into the top of the motor head
- EFFICIENT POWER: 86lb Thrust – this 24v electric trolling motor provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. The high quality build allows the motor to run all day long without overheating, or making noise to spook fish.
- FEATURES: This motor features a 40 inch shaft, a 5 LED battery meter, a 6 inch telescoping tiller handle, and 3 blade propeller. The mount angle, height, and direction can all be adjusted and locked into place when needed.
- SPEED: This motor has 8 speeds, 5 forward and 3 reverse. The motor is designed for trolling, so the top speed of this motor is about 4.5mph, but depends on your boat shape, weight, water, wind, and other factors. Our 3 Blade Propeller gives the motor great low end torque to get the boat moving.
- Telescoping Tiller: This 6-inch telescoping tiller provides easy, comfortable, and intuitive control of your trolling motor for all-day fishing trips; Push-to-test battery meter integrated with motor head
- 10-Position Lever Lock Bracket: Easy-release lever lock system lets you quickly adjust and secure your trolling motor angle; Reinforced composite construction resists flexing, warping, and UV damage for long-lasting durability in marine environments
- Marine Corrosion Protection: Motor lower unit housings are grit-blasted and coated in aluminum to prevent oxidization and rust, with a final layer of powder coat paint providing ultimate protection in saltwater environments
Best Overall
Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest
When it comes to reliability, durability, and cutting-edge features, the Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest takes the crown. This motor offers an impressive combination of power and advanced technology, including GPS-guided navigation and spot-lock functionality. It’s perfect for anglers who want precision and control in every aspect of their fishing experience.
Pros
- GPS-guided autopilot for precise navigation
- Durable construction that withstands harsh saltwater environments
- High thrust capacity, making it versatile for various boat sizes
- Intuitive controls and customizable settings
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other models
- Installation can be complex for first-time users
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
Best for Large Boats
Garmin Force Kraken
If you’re working with a large boat, the Garmin Force Kraken is the powerhouse you need. This motor offers unmatched thrust and efficiency, ensuring you can handle even the heaviest vessels. What sets it apart is its seamless integration with Garmin electronics, giving you unparalleled control and navigation.
Pros
- Exceptional thrust for large and heavy boats
- Compatible with Garmin electronics for seamless integration
- Energy-efficient, maximizing battery life
- Built-in sonar capability
Cons
- Expensive, making it less accessible for budget-conscious anglers
- Large size can be cumbersome for smaller setups
- Requires a learning curve for optimal use
Best for Inshore
Power-Pole Move PV
For inshore fishing, the Power-Pole Move PV is a game-changer. This motor combines stealthy operation with top-notch corrosion resistance, making it ideal for shallow, brackish waters. Its lightweight design and precise maneuverability make it a favorite among inshore anglers.
Pros
- Extremely quiet, perfect for stealthy inshore fishing
- Lightweight and easy to install
- High resistance to corrosion
- Intuitive remote control for effortless operation
Cons
- Limited thrust compared to offshore motors
- Not suitable for large or heavy boats
- Battery consumption could be optimized further
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Fishing enthusiasts, feel free to share your experiences with these motors. Have you used any of these models? What’s your favorite trolling motor for saltwater adventures?
How I Chose the Best Saltwater Trolling Motor
Selecting the best trolling motors required thorough research and hands-on testing. I considered factors like thrust, durability, price, and special features like GPS and anchor modes. Additionally, I looked for motors that could handle the challenges of saltwater environments while delivering consistent performance. Feedback from fellow anglers also played a big role in my evaluations.
The Best Saltwater Trolling Motors: Reviews and Recommendations
Best Overall: Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest
Pros
- Advanced GPS features for unparalleled control
- Rugged design built to last
- Versatile for multiple fishing conditions
Cons
- Expensive compared to similar models
- Slightly heavy for small boats
Best for Large Boats: Garmin Force Kraken
Pros
- Superior thrust for heavy-duty performance
- Compatible with Garmin devices
- Quiet operation despite its power
Cons
- Pricey
- Learning curve for some features
Best for Inshore: Power-Pole Move PV
Pros
- Ideal for shallow waters
- Lightweight and portable
- Durable against corrosion
Cons
- Not powerful enough for heavy boats
- Battery life can be an issue
Best Budget: MotorGuide Xi5
The MotorGuide Xi5 offers reliable performance at an affordable price. It’s a great option for those new to trolling motors or working within a tight budget.
Pros
- Affordable without compromising on quality
- GPS functionality included
- Lightweight and easy to install
Cons
- Limited thrust compared to higher-end models
- Durability in saltwater could be better
Best for Kayak: Newport Vessels Kayak Series
For kayak anglers, the Newport Vessels Kayak Series is a compact yet powerful solution. It’s specifically designed to meet the needs of small vessels.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for kayaks
- Affordable price point
- Highly efficient battery usage
Cons
- Limited to smaller boats
- Lack of advanced features like GPS
How to Choose a Saltwater Trolling Motor
Saltwater Trolling Motor Size
Choosing the right size ensures optimal performance without overburdening your boat.
Thrust
Match the thrust level to your boat’s weight to ensure smooth operation.
Mounts
Consider whether a transom or bow mount is best for your setup.
Price
Balance your budget with the features you need.
Anchor Mode and Controls
Look for features like spot-lock and remote controls for added convenience.
Alternatives to the Garmin Force Kraken
Heavy Duty: Power-Pole Move PV
For anglers looking for heavy-duty performance in shallow or inshore waters, the Power-Pole Move PV offers an excellent alternative. Its stealthy operation and superior corrosion resistance make it ideal for environments where durability and quiet propulsion are key. The compact design also appeals to those who value portability without sacrificing performance.
Budget Friendly: MotorGuide Xi5
If budget constraints are a concern, the MotorGuide Xi5 steps in as a fantastic choice. This model provides dependable performance with essential features like GPS navigation. While it doesn’t have the high-end capabilities of premium motors, it’s a solid pick for those who need reliability without the premium price tag.
Big Boats: Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest
For those handling large boats, the Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest is a powerful and feature-rich option. Its advanced GPS and high thrust make it ideal for heavy-duty use. While it may come with a steeper price tag, the added value in functionality and durability ensures it’s a worthwhile investment for large-vessel anglers.
Each of these alternatives brings something unique to the table, ensuring that no matter your specific needs, you can find a trolling motor that aligns with your preferences.
Final Thoughts
Saltwater trolling motors are essential tools for serious anglers, and choosing the right one can greatly enhance your fishing experience. Whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, there’s a motor out there to fit your needs and budget. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect match.
Elevate Your Fishing With Advanced Trolling Motor Features
FAQ
What is the difference between a trolling motor and an outboard motor?
A trolling motor is for precise, quiet propulsion, while an outboard motor provides primary power for navigating.
How do I know what size trolling motor I need?
Calculate based on your boat’s weight and desired speed.
How fast can a troll motor go?
Most trolling motors can reach speeds of 3-5 mph.
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