The battery is the power source for your motor and determines how long you can keep going before needing to recharge. With so many options out there, choosing the best battery for a trolling motor can be a bit overwhelming.
Let’s get straight into my picks for the best trolling motor batteries!
best trolling motor batteries
Based on in-depth research and experience, here are my top picks for the best trolling motor batteries:
1. Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
BEST OVERALL
Looking for the ultimate lithium trolling motor battery? The Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is the top choice for unmatched power and reliability on the water.
With 100Ah capacity in a sleek 29 lb package, this battery delivers incredible efficiency and long-lasting performance. The built-in BMS provides critical protection against issues common in boating use. It charges lightning-fast and handles repeated charge/discharge cycles with ease.
Anglers praise the Battle Born battery for its lightweight yet rugged construction, outstanding power, rapid recharging, and exceptional longevity. It’s the premium lithium upgrade that leaves heavy, maintenance-intensive lead-acid batteries in its wake.
For hardcore fishermen who want the best lithium battery to power their trolling motor for a very long time, the Battle Born LiFePO4 is the go-to choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight 29 lbs
- 100Ah capacity
- Built-in BMS for safety
- 3000-5000 cycle life
- Fast charging
- 10 year warranty
Cons:
- Expensive upfront cost
2. Dakota lithium Trolling Battery
The Most Portable
The Dakota Lithium 12V 25Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery emerges as a game-changer for trolling motor enthusiasts. Born in the rugged terrains of North Dakota, this battery boasts an impressive 11-year USA warranty, ensuring reliability and trust.
With over 2,000+ cycles, it outperforms traditional lead-acid batteries, which typically offer only 500 cycles. The battery’s smart electronics, featuring a Battery Management System (BMS), ensures optimal performance by managing cell balancing, voltage cutoffs, and temperature protection.
Its compact size and lightweight design, weighing just under 6.4 lbs, make it a preferred choice for those seeking portability without compromising on power.
However, while the battery’s performance and longevity are commendable, some users don’t like that the battery comes with allen head terminal posts, which might not be as user-friendly as wing nut terminals.
Pros:
- Long-lasting (2,000+ cycles)
- Lightweight and compact
- Built-in BMS for safety
- Suitable for extreme temperatures
- 11-year warranty
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Allen head terminal posts
- Pricey for some users
3. LiTime Mini LiFePO4 Battery
BEST Value
If premium lithium batteries are out of reach, the LiTime Mini LiFePO4 battery delivers quality lithium power for trolling motors at a more affordable price point.
This 100Ah battery provides reliable performance in a compact 19 lb package. This battery is about 35% smaller than most other batteries with similar capacity and it also more lightweight. Not bad!
The integrated BMS protects your investment while fast charge times get you back fishing quicker. Expect 10+ years of cycle life.
For anglers seeking lithium benefits on a budget, the LiTime battery is the go-to choice over cumbersome and short-lived lead-acid batteries. You get proven lithium technology trusted by boaters at a fair price.
Pros:
- Very affordable for lithium
- The most lightweight at 19 lbs
- 100Ah capacity
- Built-in BMS protection
- 10 year warranty
Cons:
- Pricier than lead-acid
4. Eco-Worthy LiFePO4 Battery
Budget Option
The most affordable lithium option, the Eco-Worthy LiFePO4 battery brings lithium benefits to budget-minded people. With available capacities of 20Ah, 50Ah, 100Ah, and 200Ah at 12V and 24V, and integrated BMS, it delivers reliable power at the lowest price.
While even cheaper upfront than the LiTime, expect a somewhat shorter cycle life of around 3000 cycles. But that still far outpaces lead-acid for longevity. At just 22 lbs for the 100Ah version, it’s super light and charges rapidly.
For trolling motor users wanting lithium on a tight budget, the Eco-Worthy battery eliminates lead-acid hassles without breaking the bank. Just temper expectations for top-notch quality and customer service.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable price
- Just 22 lbs
- 20, 50, 100, and 200Ah capacity
- Integrated BMS
Cons:
- Quality and lifespan decrease at this low price point
- Poor customer service
5. Renogy 100AH AGM Deep Cycle Battery
BEST AGM Battery
For anglers wanting a balanced AGM battery for trolling motors, the Renogy 100Ah Deep Cycle is a great choice. It provides reliable power at a very affordable price point.
This sealed AGM battery delivers 100Ah in a compact, 63 lb package. It charges faster than cheap lead acid options and holds its charge well during storage.
While the 500-1000 cycle life is lower than lithium, this AGM battery costs far less upfront. It’s an inexpensive way to upgrade from basic lead-acid batteries.
Trolling motor users praise the Renogy AGM battery for its maintenance-free design, vibration resistance, and impressive longevity given the low price. It’s the affordable AGM pick for all-day fishing.
Pros:
- Very affordable cost
- 100Ah capacity
- Faster charging than lead acid
- Low self-discharge
- Reliable power
Cons:
- Short 3-4 year lifespan
- Heavy at 64 lbs
6. WEIZE 12V 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery
BEST Value AGM Battery
For powering high thrust trolling motors on larger fishing boats, the WEIZE 12V 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery delivers massive capacity and proven performance.
This commercial-grade AGM battery provides a huge 100Ah of power in a rugged, maintenance-free design. It can crank out high current for extended periods, with over 200 minutes of reserve capacity.
Built stout with thick lead calcium alloy plates, it withstands the rigors of all-day offshore fishing trips. The sealed AGM construction prevents leaks and hazards.
Serious big water anglers rely on the WEIZE 100Ah battery for the power, longevity, and safety needed to run their high-draw trolling motors many miles from shore.
Pros:
- Massive 100Ah capacity
- Over 200 minutes of reserve capacity
- Rugged and sealed AGM design
- Commercial-grade durability
Cons:
- Heavy at 60 lbs
- Replacement needed after 3-4 years
Trolling Motor Battery Brand Comparison
Now that you know what to look for in the best trolling motor battery, let’s compare some top models and brands on the market:
| Battery Brand | Type | Price | Capacity | Voltage | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battle Born | Lithium (LFP) | $925 | 100Ah | 12V | 31 lbs |
| Dakota | Lithium (LFP) | $249 | 25Ah | 12v | 6.4lbs |
| LiTime | Lithium (LFP) | $330 | 100Ah | 12V | 19 lbs |
| ECO-WORTHY | Lithium (LFP) | $275 | 100Ah | 12V | 21.2 lbs |
| Renogy | AGM Deep Cycle | $270 | 100Ah | 12V | 63.9 lbs |
| WEIZE | AGM Deep Cycle | $165 | 100Ah | 12V | 60 lbs |
When comparing top trolling motor battery brands, Battle Born is the premium option with the highest price but also the longest lifespan of 3000-5000 cycles.
LiTime, and ECO-WORTHY offer more affordable lithium batteries in the $250-$350 range. They offer decent lifespans for the price.
On the other hand, Dakota offers the best selection of lithium battery capacity levels.
If your budget is tight, then you may consider also AGM batteries from Renogy and Weize.
In terms of capacity, all the batteries listed offer 100Ah and the voltage is 12V for all models. However, they are also available with lower capacity and higher voltage if needed.
The Battle Born is very robust, but also the heaviest lithium battery at 31 lbs, while the other LFP batteries range from 19-26 lbs for easier mounting and transportation.
Overall, Battle Born is the premium quality choice, made in the USA. While the others provide a more affordable choice.
Trolling motor battery box
A trolling motor battery box is an indispensable accessory for boaters and anglers alike.
Take the Newport Vessels Trolling Motor Battery Box Power Center, for instance. This robust plastic box not only protects your battery from the elements but also offers external battery ports, integrated circuit breakers, and versatile charging options, including a direct USB charger and a 12V accessory port.
It’s the perfect fit for Group 24 and 27 batteries, with an LED meter to monitor charge levels and non-slip rubberized feet for stability.
With this battery box, you’ll enjoy enhanced safety, convenience, and peace of mind on the water. Just make sure that your trolling motor battery can correctly fit inside and you are good to go!
How to Choose Battery Power and Capacity
Selecting the right battery size and power output is crucial for optimal trolling motor performance. Here are the key factors to consider:
Motor Thrust and Voltage
Match your battery configuration to the voltage (12V, 24V, 36V) and thrust rating of your motor. Higher thrust motors draw more amps and require more battery capacity.
Runtime Needed
Consider the typical runtime per fishing trip and choose enough battery capacity to meet your needs with a 20% safety buffer. Longer runtime requires more battery capacity.
To calculate the hours of runtime you can use the formula below:
Battery Wh / Trolling Motor Watts = Hours of run time
Check the Watts used by your trolling motor, then simply divide the battery’s Wh by the Watts used by your motor. This will give you the approximate running time of your trolling motor with that battery.
Peak Amps vs. Reserve Capacity
Peak amps provide starting burst power while reserve capacity indicates runtime at a steady discharge rate. Choose batteries with high reserve capacity for trolling motors.
Battery Quantity and Position
The number and placement of batteries affect performance. More distributed weight improves boat handling. Optimal configurations depend on your specific boat.
Temperature Resistance
Colder temperatures degrade battery performance. Choose batteries able to withstand seasonal temperature fluctuations in your fishing environment.
C-Rating
The C-rating indicates the maximum current, in amps, that a battery can sustain. Most quality 100Ah lithium batteries have a 100A (1C) continuous rating. Higher C-ratings around 3C-5C allow powering high-draw devices like large motors or inverters.
Low Temperature Charging
Lithium batteries can be damaged if charged below 32°F (0°C). Quality batteries have a low temperature cut-off to stop charging in cold conditions. This feature is essential for cold weather use.
Built-in Bluetooth
Some batteries have Bluetooth connectivity allowing monitoring of voltage and state of charge from a phone app. This convenient feature lets you check battery levels at a glance.
Battery Management System
A good BMS protects the lithium cells from damage due to overcharging, short circuits, high temperatures, and other issues. The BMS is essential to battery safety and longevity.
Warranty
Lengthy warranties of 5-10 years provide peace of mind. However, read the fine print carefully as some warranties have pro-rated periods or may not cover certain types of damage.
Weight
Lithium batteries are 50-75% lighter than comparable lead acid batteries. Reduced weight improves performance and handling.
Price
There is quite a range when it comes to lithium battery pricing. Typically $300 to $900 for a 100Ah battery, and around $70 if you just need a small 20Ah battery. I recommend focusing on quality and performance rather than just the lowest cost.
Regarding AGM batteries instead, those are typically more affordable, ranging between $150 and $300.
Lithium vs Lead Acid Batteries
Here is a comparison of how lithium batteries stack up against traditional lead acid batteries:
Types of Batteries for Trolling Motors
There are 3 main types of trolling motor batteries:
- Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries: The most affordable option but require routine maintenance to check water levels. Can spill acid if tipped over.
- Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries: More expensive but sealed and spill-proof. Don’t require water refills. Heavier than lithium.
- Lithium Batteries: Most expensive upfront but lightest weight, longest lifespan, highest performance. No maintenance is required.
Lithium vs AGM Batteries
The best trolling motor battery provides long-lasting power, charges quickly, withstands temperature extremes, requires low maintenance, and gives you the freedom to go for long distances.
Lithium batteries for trolling motors check all these boxes and are the best long-term investment for most boaters, sailors, kayakers, and fishing enthusiasts.
Lithium batteries pros and cons VS lead acid batteries:
| Aspect | Lithium-Ion | Lead-Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | High energy density | Low energy density: storing less energy in the same space |
| Lifespan | Longer lasting: 10 years | Shorter lifespan: 2-4 years |
| Weight | Lighter: up to 70% less weight | Heavier |
| Charging Time | Faster charging | Slow charging |
| Maintenance | Less maintenance | Requires more maintenance if FLA |
| Cost for 100Ah | 300-1100$ | 200-350$ |
| Performance | High DOD (Depth Of Discharge): up to 95% | Low DOD (Depth Of Discharge): you can use only about 50% of the stored energy |
Overall, lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density, longer lifespan, faster charging time, lighter weight, lower maintenance requirements, and are better under heavy loads. However, they are more expensive.
Lead-acid batteries have a lower capacity, shorter lifespan, heavier weight, and lower performance but are less expensive and might require periodic maintenance.
NOTE about lithium batteries: make sure to have the right battery charger for this type of battery. Also, if you are charging from solar, make sure that your solar controller is set up to charge this type of battery, or you may face issues.
Helpful Features for Trolling Motor Batteries
Look for these helpful design features when shopping for your next trolling motor battery:
Maintenance-Free AGM or Lithium
AGM and lithium batteries eliminate the need to check fluid levels, reducing maintenance.
Battery Meter
Convenient meters show the real-time charge state, ensuring you head in before running out of juice.
Compact Size
Space can be tight on small boats. Compact batteries fit into tight spaces and keep weight centered.
Rubberized Protection
A rubberized coating cushions the battery from vibration and accidental impacts for longer life.
Mounting Hardware
Pre-installed mounting straps make secure battery installation quick and easy.
Low Self-Discharge
Batteries with lower self-discharge preserve energy better during storage between uses.
Conclusion
Choosing the right battery is essential to powering your trolling motor and enjoying full days of fishing on the water.
Flooded lead-acid, AGM, and lithium batteries all have their pros and cons. Determine the required capacity based on your motor’s power draw and runtime needs. Also, if you are planning to use your trolling motor in a marine environment, then you should check my other article!
Helpful features like built-in battery meters, rubberized protection, and low self-discharge extend battery life and usability.
For unmatched performance and durability, I recommend the Battle Born batteries. But budget-friendly options like the LiTime Mini delivers reliable power at a lower cost. In addition, you will be able to use those batteries also in your RV.
I hope that this guide helped you select the ideal trolling motor battery for your fishing and boating adventures. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below!