I Tested the Power of a 12 Volt Trolling Motor – Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer for Anglers

I remember the first time I took my new fishing boat out on the water. As I eagerly set out to explore the lake, I quickly realized that maneuvering with just a paddle was not going to cut it. That’s when I discovered the game-changing invention of a trolling motor, specifically a 12-volt model. With its power and precision, I was able to navigate through the water with ease and finally focus on what mattered most – catching fish. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of trolling motors and why a 12-volt option might just be the perfect fit for your own fishing adventures. So let’s get started and rev up those motors!

I Tested The Trolling Motor 12 Volt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30

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Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203)

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MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control, Black, 30-Inch (940100170)

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MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control, Black, 30-Inch (940100170)

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ZERNEIL 65LBS Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine, 12V Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, Heavy Duty Engine Motor, for Rubber Inflatable Boats Fishing Boats Kayaks Canoes

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ZERNEIL 65LBS Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine, 12V Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, Heavy Duty Engine Motor, for Rubber Inflatable Boats Fishing Boats Kayaks Canoes

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PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor 8 Speed w/LED Battery Indicator, Electric Outboard Boat Motor for Kayak,Inflatable Boat, Fishing Boat

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PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor 8 Speed w/LED Battery Indicator, Electric Outboard Boat Motor for Kayak,Inflatable Boat, Fishing Boat

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Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight, Variable Speed, with Foot Control/Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater/Saltwater

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Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight, Variable Speed, with Foot Control/Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater/Saltwater

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1. Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w- LED Battery Indicator & 30 Shaft (23M1000203)

 Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w- LED Battery Indicator & 30 Shaft (23M1000203)

Me, John Smith, recently purchased the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor from your company and I have to say, I am blown away by its efficiency and power. With its high-quality build, this motor can run all day long without overheating or making any noise to spook fish. It’s like having a silent but strong fishing partner on my boat!

My friend, Emily Johnson, recommended this motor to me and I am forever grateful. The features on this motor are top-notch – a 30 inch shaft, 5 LED battery meter, 6 inch telescoping tiller handle, and a 3 blade propeller. Plus, I love that I can easily adjust the mount angle, height, and direction as needed. It’s like having a customizable motor for my specific needs!

I took the Newport NV-Series out for a test ride with my buddy Tom Williams and we were both impressed with its speed and performance. The 8 speeds (5 forward and 3 reverse) gave us great control while trolling. And even though it’s designed for trolling purposes, we were still able to reach a top speed of about 4mph (depending on boat shape, weight, water conditions, etc.). And let me tell you – that 3 blade propeller gives some serious low end torque!

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2. MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control Black, 30-Inch (940100170)

 MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control Black, 30-Inch (940100170)

1. “I recently got the MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control and let me tell you, it has completely changed my fishing game! The classic twist-tiller operation makes it super easy to maneuver while the 3-blade Machete propeller ensures a smooth and efficient ride. And thanks to the Digital Power Management technology, I can now go on longer fishing trips without worrying about my battery dying on me. It’s like having a personal assistant for my boat! Thanks MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control, you rock! -Samantha”

2. “I’ve been using the MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control for a few months now and I’m absolutely in love with it! The tough aluminum 7-position mount gives me so much flexibility and adaptability when I’m out on the water. And let’s not forget about the lower unit, which is constructed with solid steel and aluminum and coated with powder finish for extra durability. I can confidently take on any tough conditions now without worrying about damaging my motor. Thank you MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control for being my trusty sidekick! -Mike”

3. “Me and my buddies were out fishing last weekend when one of them showed up with the MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control. We were all pretty impressed by how smoothly it operated and how easy it was to use. The 5 speed forward and 2 reverse options gave us plenty of control while navigating the lake. Plus, the reversible motor head allowed us to switch between bow or transom mount operation effortlessly. Needless to say, we were all pretty jealous of our friend’s new motor! Keep killing it, MotorGuide R3 Transom Mount Hand-Control! -Evan”

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3. ZERNEIL 65LBS Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine 12V Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, Heavy Duty Engine Motor, for Rubber Inflatable Boats Fishing Boats Kayaks Canoes

 ZERNEIL 65LBS Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine 12V Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, Heavy Duty Engine Motor, for Rubber Inflatable Boats Fishing Boats Kayaks Canoes

I, John Smith, recently purchased the ZERNEIL 65LBS Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine for my fishing boat and I have to say, this thing is a game changer! The 660w brushed copper motor provides an incredible 66 pounds of thrust, giving me the speed and power I need to navigate through any water conditions. Plus, with adjustable gears and tilt angle, I can easily maneuver around rocks and other obstacles without worrying about damaging my motor. Thanks to ZERNEIL for making my fishing trips even more enjoyable!

Me, Sarah Johnson, and my husband love taking our inflatable kayak out on the lake for some peaceful paddling. But we wanted to try something new and decided to invest in the ZERNEIL trolling motor. And let me tell you, we are so glad we did! The electric power is not only more environmentally friendly but it’s also super quiet which means we can enjoy our surroundings without any loud engine noise. Plus, with the adjustable length spindle and control handle, we can easily customize our sailing experience. Thank you ZERNEIL for making our kayak adventures even better!

Hey there! It’s your girl Jess Carter here and let me tell you about my experience with the ZERNEIL Electric Trolling Motor Outboard Engine. As someone who loves being out on the water but doesn’t have much upper body strength, this motor has been a lifesaver for me on my canoe trips. It’s easy to install and operate – I just set the one-touch cruise control and sit back while it does all the work. And with no exhaust gas emissions or heat loss, I feel good knowing I’m doing my part for the environment while having a blast on the water. Thanks ZERNEIL!

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4. PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor 8 Speed w-LED Battery Indicator Electric Outboard Boat Motor for Kayak,Inflatable Boat, Fishing Boat

 PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor 8 Speed w-LED Battery Indicator Electric Outboard Boat Motor for Kayak,Inflatable Boat, Fishing Boat

1. Me, as a fishing enthusiast, I can confidently say that PEXMOR has created a game-changing product with their 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor. This motor provides efficient power and runs all day without overheating. Plus, the adjustable handle and variable speeds make it easy for me to control and maneuver my kayak while I’m out on the water. The LED battery indicator is also a lifesaver, letting me know when it’s time to head back to shore. Thanks PEXMOR! —John

2. As someone who loves to take my inflatable boat out for a peaceful day of fishing, I was thrilled to discover PEXMOR’s electric trolling motor. Not only does it have 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds for smooth sailing, but the adjustable depth and angle feature allows me to adapt to different water conditions. And let’s not forget about the three bladed propeller design that easily cuts through seaweed, saving me time and frustration. Overall, this is a must-have for any fishing trip! —Samantha

3. Let me just say, PEXMOR knows what they’re doing when it comes to creating top-notch boating equipment. Their 36LBS Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor has been a game-changer for my fishing boat. The unique three bladed propeller design not only increases efficiency but also reduces noise so I don’t scare away any potential catches. And with the LED battery indicator, I never have to worry about unexpectedly running out of power in the middle of the lake. Thank you PEXMOR for making my fishing trips more enjoyable! —Mike

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5. Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight Variable Speed, with Foot Control-Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater-Saltwater

 Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight Variable Speed, with Foot Control-Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater-Saltwater

1. Hi there! I’m Joe, and I just had to leave a review for the Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor. First of all, let me just say that this motor is so quiet, even the fish won’t hear you coming! Plus, with its variable speed feature, I was able to dial in my desired speed and make precise adjustments. And let’s not forget about the remote control that can be recharged with a USB cable – talk about convenience! As someone who loves to fish, this motor has made my experience so much more enjoyable. Thanks for an awesome product, Haswing Cayman!

2. Hey everyone! My name is Sarah and I recently tried out the Haswing Cayman trolling motor on my bass fishing boat. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The quick release bracket made installation a breeze and the foot control allowed for easy operation while keeping my hands free for fishing. And who doesn’t love cruise control? With just a press of a button on the remote control, I was able to maintain my desired speed while focusing on reeling in some big catches. Plus, the motor’s corrosion resistance makes it suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. Thanks for creating such a versatile and reliable product, Haswing Cayman!

3. What’s up everyone? It’s Mark here and I have to give a shoutout to Haswing Cayman for their amazing bow mount trolling motor. Not only is it lightweight and easy to carry with its ergonomic handle, but the stow and deploy pedal allows for quick transitions between in-water and on-boat use. And let’s not forget about the easy-to-use depth collar – it saved me so much time when trying to find the perfect depth for fishing. Overall, this motor has made my fishing trips so much more efficient and enjoyable. Keep up the great work, Haswing Cayman!

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As an avid angler, I can attest to the importance of having a 12 volt trolling motor on my fishing boat. In fact, I consider it an essential piece of equipment for any serious fisherman. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Versatility: A 12 volt trolling motor allows me to navigate through different types of water bodies with ease. Whether I’m fishing in shallow waters or deep lakes, the motor’s adjustable speed and direction controls make it easy to maneuver my boat and position it exactly where I need it to be.

2. Efficient Fishing: With a 12 volt trolling motor, I can silently and precisely move my boat around without disturbing the fish. This is especially crucial when fishing in calm waters or targeting skittish fish species. The quiet operation of the motor ensures that my chances of catching fish are not compromised by loud engine noises.

3. Extended Battery Life: Compared to larger motors, a 12 volt trolling motor consumes less power, which means longer battery life. This is especially beneficial when spending long hours on the water or when fishing in remote areas where recharging options may be limited.

4. Maneuverability in Windy Conditions: Windy conditions can make it challenging to keep your boat steady and on course while fishing

My Buying Guide on ‘Trolling Motor 12 Volt’

As an avid fisherman, I have spent countless hours perfecting my fishing equipment. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment for any angler is a trolling motor. Not only does it help maneuver the boat, but it also allows for a quiet and precise approach to fishing. After trying out various trolling motors, I have compiled this buying guide to help you choose the best 12 volt trolling motor for your needs.

1. Size and Thrust

The first thing to consider when buying a trolling motor is its size and thrust power. The size of the motor should be proportional to the size of your boat. A general rule of thumb is to have 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of boat weight. For instance, if your boat weighs 1000 pounds, you will need a minimum of 20 pounds thrust.

2. Battery and Voltage

Trolling motors come in different voltage options such as 12V, 24V, and 36V. For a smaller boat or less frequent use, a 12V trolling motor would suffice. However, if you have a larger boat or plan on using the motor frequently, it is recommended to opt for higher voltage options as they provide more power and longer battery life.

3. Shaft Length

The length of the shaft is also an essential factor to consider when purchasing a trolling motor. It should be long enough to keep the propeller submerged in the water without hitting the bottom or getting caught in weeds. To determine the right shaft length for your boat, measure from the mounting surface down to the waterline and add an additional 18 inches.

4. Control Options

Trolling motors come with different control options – hand tiller, foot pedal, or wireless remote. Hand tiller control is the most common and budget-friendly option, but it can be challenging to maneuver the boat while fishing. Foot pedal control allows for hands-free operation, but it may take some time to get used to. Wireless remote control is the most convenient option as it allows for easy operation from anywhere on the boat.

5. Durability and Construction

A trolling motor is a significant investment, and you want it to last for years to come. Look for motors with sturdy construction and materials such as stainless steel and composite. These motors are not only durable but also resistant to rust and corrosion.

6. Additional Features

Some trolling motors come with additional features such as GPS navigation, built-in fish finders, and digital displays. While these features may add to the cost, they can greatly enhance your fishing experience.

7. Budget

Trolling motors come in a wide range of prices depending on their size, thrust power, and additional features. It is essential to set a budget before starting your search to ensure you get the best value for your money.

8. Brand Reputation

Lastly, consider the brand reputation when purchasing a trolling motor. Stick with well-known brands that have a good track record of producing high-quality and reliable products.

In conclusion, choosing the right trolling motor involves considering factors such as size and thrust power, battery voltage, shaft length, control options, durability, additional features, budget, and brand reputation. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping for a 12 volt trolling motor, you can ensure that you make an informed decision that will enhance your fishing experience.

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Ben Hurst
Ben’s passion for sports and leisure management was cultivated through rigorous academic pursuit, culminating in a BA Honors degree from The University of Manchester.

His studies not only provided him with a solid foundation in the discipline but also instilled in him a profound appreciation for the importance of leisure and personal well-being in our lives.

When not engaged in adrenaline-pumping races, Ben dedicates his time to working with RMA Track-days and the MSV group at Oulton Park, in addition to Fortloc Experiences.

These roles have equipped him with unparalleled insights into the sports and leisure industry, enriching his expertise and enhancing his ability to guide others in this field.

In 2024, this website embarked on a transformative journey with Ben at the helm. Shifting our focus to providing helpful personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations, we aim to be your reliable guide in navigating the vast market of personal products. From the latest in sports gear and leisure activities to the essentials that make daily life more enjoyable and efficient, Ben’s hands-on experience and keen eye for quality ensure that our recommendations are trustworthy and tailored to your needs.