Remote Control Trolling Motors

Lorelei Weaver
10 min readJun 19, 2024

Are you looking to add some convenience and precision to your fishing experience? Look no further than the Remote Control Trolling Motor! In this article, we’ll be rounding up the top models on the market, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your fishing adventures. Get ready to explore the depths of your favorite waterways with ease, all from the comfort of your boat.

The Top 5 Best Remote Control Trolling Motors

  1. Reliable 55lb-Thrust Trolling Motor with Micro Remote — Redefine your boating and fishing experience with the Minn Kota PowerDrive 55 Trolling Motor — effortless control, reliable performance, and intuitive navigation for all anglers.
  2. Wireless Saltwater Trolling Motor with GPS and Wireless Pedal for Precise Control — The MotorGuide Xi3–55FW Bow Mount Trolling Motor delivers wireless control, best-in-class quiet operation, and easy stowing with its innovative Secure Step system, making it the ultimate choice for saltwater trolling enthusiasts.
  3. Wireless GPS Trolling Motor with Remote Control — Experience seamless wireless control, exceptional quiet operation, and safe stowing with the Xi3–55SW MotorGuide Trolling Motor for optimal fishing enjoyment.
  4. Minn Kota Ulterra Ipilot Trolling Motor — Experience ultimate convenience and precision with the Minn Kota Ulterra Trolling Motor, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, GPS-enabled i-Pilot Link remote control, easy operation, and a built-in transducer for crystal-clear underwater imaging.
  5. Cloud Mountain 55lbs Electric Trolling Motor with 8-Speed and Adjustable Handle for Fishing Boats — Experience reliable and smooth trolling with the Cloud Mountain 55lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor, featuring an ergonomic extendable handle and 28-inch fiberglass composite shaft for optimal control and durability.

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Reviews

Reliable 55lb-Thrust Trolling Motor with Micro Remote

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I recently had the chance to try out the Minn Kota 54" PowerDrive 55 Trolling Motor with Micro Remote in my fishing adventures. This trolling motor is a game-changer, making navigation on the water seamless and effortless. The Mr feature, in particular, stands out as it provides precise steering control and ensures smooth maneuvering.

One of the most impressive aspects of this motor is its durability, which is perfect for anglers like me who often fish in tough conditions. The Deploy-Assist Lever makes setting up and stowing the motor easy, and its compatibility with wireless remote or foot pedal control is a major bonus for convenience and versatility.

However, there were a couple of downsides to my experience. First, the stow and deploy process is slightly more challenging than I had hoped, and second, the foot pedal needs to be more waterproof, as I encountered an issue with it during a tournament. Despite these minor drawbacks, this Minn Kota motor exceeded my expectations and was a reliable and powerful companion on my fishing trips.

Wireless Saltwater Trolling Motor with GPS and Wireless Pedal for Precise Control

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The MotorGuide Xi3–55FW is a top-of-the-line bow mount trolling motor, boasting features such as a wireless Sonar/GPS system and a retractable propeller. This motor is designed for ultimate control and efficiency on the water, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and recreational fishermen. Its wireless pedal allows for precise control from any part of the boat, eliminating the need for cumbersome foot pedals.

However, some users have reported issues with the compatibility of the motor with certain fish-finders, leading to potential confusion and frustration.

Wireless GPS Trolling Motor with Remote Control

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Having a go with the MotorGuide Xi3–55SW trolling motor for a few weeks now, it’s been an interesting experience. The wireless control is definitely a game-changer. No more fumbling around in the boat for the remote, the handheld one is convenient and precise.

Powering up the motor has been hassle-free, just set it up, turn the propeller on, and you’re good to go. The GPS system has been a reliable guide as well. It’s been handy when I wanted to drop anchor in a specific spot and the motor did a great job of holding that position.

The noise level is also something I’ve noticed. It’s significantly quieter than its competitors, which is a plus when you’re trying to fish in peace. However, the downside can be found in the installation process. I’ve had some issues with the Secure Step system, but hopefully, that’s just a one-off problem.

Overall, the MotorGuide Xi3–55SW has been a solid addition to my fishing gear. It’s been reliable, convenient, and efficient. The only area where it could improve is probably the motor’s waterproofing, but apart from that, it’s a powerful piece of equipment that has made my fishing trips more enjoyable.

Minn Kota Ulterra Ipilot Trolling Motor

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The Minn Kota Ulterra 45in trolling motor is an incredible piece of equipment, perfect for fishermen of all levels. As someone who’s used this motor for months now, I can confidently say that it’s a game-changer. The auto stow and deploy feature is fantastic, as it allows you to quickly switch from fishing in shallow waters to deeper ones without ever leaving your boat.

The i-Pilot Link remote is incredibly user-friendly, and it’s nice to have the option of using a foot pedal or a Humminbird fish finder to control the trolling motor as well. Spot-Lock is another great feature that allows you to lock onto your favorite fishing spots, record paths, and even command speed from the touchscreen remote or a virtual remote on your Humminbird fish finder.

One standout feature is the built-in transducer with Humminbird MEGA Down Imaging. It provides crystal-clear coverage down to 125 feet below your boat, making it easy to distinguish fish from structure and even target individual species.

Of course, like any product, it’s not perfect. One downside I’ve experienced is the occasional issue with durability. The transducer, for example, failed after just a few hours of use, which was definitely frustrating. The process of getting it fixed was also quite complicated and time-consuming.

Overall, the Minn Kota Ulterra 45in trolling motor is a top-quality product that’s made fishing trips more enjoyable. Its features are innovative and effective, making it a worthwhile investment, despite the occasional durability issues.

Cloud Mountain 55lbs Electric Trolling Motor with 8-Speed and Adjustable Handle for Fishing Boats

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As an avid fisherman, when I first heard about the Cloud Mountain 55lbs Thrust Electric Trolling Motor, I was intrigued. I decided to give it a try on my next outing, and boy, was I glad I did.

This motor was truly powerful, allowing me to easily navigate my boat through both freshwater and saltwater. Its ergonomic extendable handle provided me with smooth and easily controlled movement, while the stainless steel hardware ensured its compatibility with various water conditions.

One feature that stood out to me was the telescoping adjustable handle with 8 speeds and the 6-inch Telescoping adjuster. It was a game-changer when it came to maneuvering my boat, making every fishing experience more effortless and enjoyable.

However, I did experience a minor inconvenience when using the motor. It required a large circuit due to its powerful capabilities, as it tripped my 60 amp breaker on high setting. But overall, I was impressed with the performance and durability of the Cloud Mountain 55lbs Thrust Electric Trolling Motor and look forward to using it on my future fishing trips.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for remote control trolling motors. In this section, we aim to provide you with valuable information on the essential features, considerations, and general advice for selecting the best remote control trolling motor that meets your needs. Without further ado, let’s dive into the world of remote control trolling motors.

Power Considerations

The first aspect to consider when purchasing a remote control trolling motor is the power requirements. Trolling motors are available in different power ratings, ranging from 24V to 36V. Your choice should depend on the size of the boat and the water conditions you’ll be navigating. For smaller boats or calm waters, a 24V trolling motor may suffice. However, if you have a larger boat or plan to operate in rough seas, a higher power rating like 36V would be more suitable.

Battery Life

The battery life of your remote control trolling motor is another important factor to consider. A longer battery life will allow you to spend more time on the water without worrying about running out of power. Be sure to check the battery capacity and run time of the trolling motor before making a purchase.

Durability and Build Quality

Given the exposure to water and salt air, it’s crucial to choose a trolling motor with high-quality materials and construction. Look for motors with corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum, and check if they have waterproof seals and protective coatings to ensure their longevity.

Remote Control Features

The remote control is the heart of your trolling motor system. Look for a remote control with clear and responsive buttons, a comfortable grip, and an easy-to-read display. Some advanced features to consider include speed control, direction control, and the ability to program waypoints or set automatic trolling speeds.

FAQ

What is a remote control trolling motor?

A remote control trolling motor is a type of electric motor used to propel and navigate a boat. It is controlled by a remote device, allowing the user to operate it from a distance. These motors are especially popular among anglers who need a quiet and efficient means of maneuvering their boats in search of fish.

Remote control trolling motors offer a variety of features to improve the boating experience, such as adjustable speed settings, direction control, and even GPS navigation. They provide a level of convenience and freedom that traditional manual motors cannot offer, making them an attractive option for boaters of all skill levels.

How does a remote control trolling motor work?

Remote control trolling motors function by using a battery-operated motor that is connected to a propeller or a drive system. The remote control device communicates with the motor, allowing the user to adjust speed, direction, and even switch between forward and reverse motion. Some remote control trolling motors also include GPS navigation and other advanced features.

To use a remote control trolling motor, simply attach the propeller to the bottom of your boat and mount the remote control device within reach. Ensure that the motor is properly connected to the battery, and you’re ready to start trolling. With the touch of a button, you can control the speed and direction of your boat efficiently and quietly. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner boat enthusiast, a remote control trolling motor can greatly enhance your boating experience.

What are the main benefits of using a remote control trolling motor?

Remote control trolling motors offer several advantages compared to traditional manual motors. They are quieter, more efficient, and provide greater control over the speed and direction of your boat. This can be especially important for fishermen who need to move silently and accurately around their fishing spot. Additionally, remote control trolling motors can be more comfortable to use, as they allow the user to remain seated and in control without the need to physically turn the motor. Finally, remote control trolling motors often come equipped with advanced features, such as GPS navigation and multiple speed settings, which can make your boating experience even more enjoyable.

In summary, the main benefits of using a remote control trolling motor include quiet operation, increased efficiency, greater control, and the convenience of advanced features. These advantages make them an attractive option for boaters looking to improve their overall boating experience, especially in a fishing context.

Can I use a remote control trolling motor on any type of boat?

Remote control trolling motors are typically designed to be compatible with a wide range of boats, including small fishing boats, dinghies, and kayaks. However, it’s essential to verify the compatibility of the specific remote control trolling motor with your boat before making a purchase. Some factors to consider when determining compatibility include the weight and size of your boat, as well as the available installation points for the motor and remote control device.

Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the power requirements of your boat and the motor itself. A motor with insufficient power may struggle to propel heavier boats, while a motor with excessive power may cause damage to smaller boats or compromise their stability. Consult the product specifications and recommendations provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the remote control trolling motor you choose is suitable for your boat.

How do I choose the right remote control trolling motor for my boat?

When selecting a remote control trolling motor for your boat, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the weight and size of your boat, as well as its power requirements. This will help you determine the ideal power rating for your motor, ensuring that it can effectively propel your boat without causing damage or compromising its stability.

Next, think about the features you require for your boating experience. For example, if you’re an angler, you may want a motor with advanced GPS navigation or the ability to set and maintain specific speeds. Consider the convenience of a waterproof remote control device and battery life, as well. Finally, ensure that the remote control trolling motor you choose is compatible with your boat by following the manufacturer’s recommendations and specifications. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect remote control trolling motor to enhance your boating experience.

Are remote control trolling motors more expensive than manual trolling motors?

Remote control trolling motors can often be more expensive than manual trolling motors, but the additional features and benefits they offer can make the investment worthwhile for many users. Remote control trolling motors provide greater convenience, control, and efficiency compared to their manual counterparts, which can be especially valuable for fishermen and boaters seeking a quiet and unobtrusive means of propulsion.

While the upfront cost of a remote control trolling motor may be higher, the long-term savings in fuel and maintenance, as well as the enhanced functionality, can make it a cost-effective choice for many boaters. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between a remote control trolling motor and a manual one, and weigh the benefits against the potential cost.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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