Trolling motors have come a long way since the simple on and off models of the past. Today’s motors are packed with advanced features including GPS integration, sonar, fish finders, and remote controls. All of these depend on one critical component which is your trolling motor battery.
Whether you are quietly gliding through the shallows or holding your position in a strong current, the right battery ensures your trolling motor performs at its best. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to choose the best trolling motor battery for your boat.
Why Your Trolling Motor Battery Choice Matters
A trolling motor battery is not just a power source. It determines how long you can stay on the water, how easily your boat handles, and how reliable your fishing trips are. The wrong battery could leave you cutting your day short while the right one keeps you fishing longer, moving faster, and carrying less weight.
Lithium vs Lead Acid Batteries for Trolling Motors
When shopping for a trolling motor battery, you will face two main options: lead acid or lithium iron phosphate also called LiFePO4.
Here is a quick comparison:
|
Feature |
Enexer LiFePO4 Battery |
Lead Acid Battery |
|
Weight |
Much lighter – Typical approximately 1/3 the weight of comparable Lead Acid battery |
Very heavy |
|
Lifespan (cycles) |
3000 to 5000 plus |
300 to 500 |
|
Maintenance |
None |
Required, prone to sulfation |
|
Voltage Stability |
Constant power until empty |
Drops as battery discharges |
|
Cost Per Cycle |
Low with better long-term value |
High |
|
Space Required |
Compact requiring less space |
Bulky |
|
Ventilation Required |
No |
Yes, gas emissions likely |
For a deeper breakdown of cost, performance, and lifespan, check out the following articles on our website:
LiFePO4 vs. Lead Acid Batteries: Which One Should You Choose?
LiFePO4 vs. Lead-Acid: The True Cost Revealed
Verdict: While lead acid is cheaper upfront, lithium batteries deliver far greater performance, reliability, and lifetime savings which makes them the best investment for serious anglers.
Benefits of Lithium Batteries for Trolling Motors
Upgrading to a lithium iron phosphate trolling motor battery offers several important advantages:
- Lightweight – Easy to carry and improves boat handling
- Longer Run Time – Delivers consistent voltage output until empty
- Space Saving – Requires less storage space
- Durability – Handles vibration, waves, and splashes with marine grade casing and IP67 rating
- Low Maintenance – No topping up or corrosion concerns
- Smart Monitoring – Bluetooth app allows you to track battery health, voltage, and runtime in real time
Key Factors When Choosing a Trolling Motor Battery
When evaluating the best trolling motor battery, consider these factors:
Cost and Lifespan
Do not just look at the purchase price. Compare cost per cycle. A lead acid battery may last 300 cycles, while a lithium battery can last 4000 cycles or more. That makes lithium up to ten times more cost effective over its lifespan.
Performance and Runtime
Battery runtime is measured in Amp hours. To estimate runtime, use this quick formula:
Battery Ah Rating ÷ Motor Amperage Draw = Hours of Runtime
Example: A 100Ah battery with a 25A draw = about 4 hours of runtime at full power and 100% depth of discharge. With moderate use at lower speeds, runtime extends significantly. Always ensure battery system voltage matches your trolling motor voltage.
Weight and Space
Lithium batteries weigh less than half of their lead acid counterparts. This reduces boat draft, improves speed and handling, and makes loading and unloading easier.
Durability and Maintenance
Choose a deep cycle marine grade lithium iron phosphate battery with a strong casing and sealed terminals. These withstand bumps, splashes, and vibration. Lithium requires no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
IP67 Rating for Marine Use
The IP67 rating ensures that your battery is dustproof and protected from water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This is critical in the marine environment where batteries can get wet from waves, rain, or splashes. Selecting a battery with IP67 gives peace of mind that your power source will remain safe and reliable on the water.
Bluetooth and Smart Features
Modern lithium batteries include Bluetooth monitoring apps that show battery status, remaining runtime, and system health which gives you peace of mind on every trip.
Best Battery for a 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor
A 55lb thrust trolling motor is perfect for boats between 12 and 16 feet. Here are the best options:
- 12V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery – Perfect for a full day of fishing with power for your trolling motor and electronics
- 24V 60Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery – Provides longer runtime, more thrust, and better handling in wind or currents
- 36V 60AH Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery – Delivers extended runtime, maximum thrust, and superior performance for larger trolling motors in demanding conditions
For the perfect balance of power, weight, and runtime, explore our full collection of Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries for Trolling Motors, specially designed to deliver reliable performance every time you hit the water.
Conclusion: Upgrade Your Fishing with Lithium Power
Choosing the right trolling motor battery can make the difference between a frustrating trip and your best fishing day yet. With lighter weight, longer lifespan, smart monitoring, and unmatched performance, lithium iron phosphate batteries are the clear winner.
Ready to upgrade? Explore our Enexer Lithium Iron Phosphate Trolling Motor Batteries backed by a 10-year warranty and designed to keep you fishing longer.
- Built for anglers
- Lightweight
- Maintenance free
- Bluetooth enabled