Trolling Motor Batteries

How much do you know about trolling motor batteries? These are just as essential as your main and auxiliary boat batteries, so see to it that you get only the best power pack to ensure a smooth run of your trolling motor. 

First things first, let's define what a trolling motor is. This tool is used to help move and manoeuvre your boat when you don't want to use the noisy, outboard engine. It's battery-powered and can be controlled via hand, foot pedal, or a remote.

Trolling motors allow your boat to stay in one spot despite strong currents or a particularly windy day. They also allow anglers to fish a shoreline quietly and assist boaters who want to explore shallower areas of the sea. 

If you're currently on the lookout for a trolling motor battery, check out our range of power packs at Outbax. We have the most impressive deep cycle marine batteries here that retail for only a fraction of the usual cost of batteries, so don't miss out!

What Are the Types of Trolling Motor Batteries?

Flooded Lead Acid Batteries

Lead acid batteries are the most common, oldest, and least expensive of all your trolling battery options. These power packs cost around $100 or less and last for about 2-3 years. They're characterised by lead plates inside which are submerged in acid (electrolyte). 

While these batteries have high power output, they lag behind other batteries in terms of composition and overall performance. For one, they charge slowly plus they are heavy and have low energy-all of which are not good for any boating activity.

AGM Batteries

One of the highlights of Absorbed Glass Mat or AGM batteries is their sealed form, making them easier to transport without the risk of spillage. Weighing almost the same as flooded batteries, AGM power packs have slightly longer lifespans and are often regarded as "maintenance-free."

However, they tend to be easily damaged when drained completely, making them a risky choice for a trolling motor battery.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium marine batteries are the most recommended type of boat battery for trolling motors. Specifically, the best ones would be lithium iron phosphate batteries or LiFePO4 batteries. You've probably heard about the hype around these power packs and guess what-they're all true!

First of all, these batteries are significantly lighter and will not slow down your boat. They're known to provide constant, uninterrupted power with an increased capacity and can last for up to 10 years with proper maintenance.

Another huge perk of LiFePO4 is its safe, non-hazardous composition. These are designed to be incombustible, so you get extra safety along with reliable power throughout your entire boating adventure. 

A lithium trolling motor battery will most likely cost you more, but considering the long-term benefits you will get, it's definitely worth investing in especially for avid boaters.

Pro tip: Whichever battery you choose, go for a deep cycle one. A deep cycle battery can be safely discharged down to 80% without incurring any damage, meaning you get a longer run time before a recharge is required.

What To Look For In Trolling Motor Batteries?

Battery Type

Want unrivalled trolling motor battery performance? Go for lithium deep cycle batteries like a LiFePO4 battery. You'll never go wrong with this, which is why it's the most preferred off grid battery out there!

Battery Capacity 

A 100 amp deep cycle battery is pretty much the standard both for boating and camping battery setups. However, if you feel like you'll need a bit more run time based on your power calculations, a 200Ah deep cycle battery or something higher might be a better option for you. 

Battery Voltage

Usually, a 12 volt trolling motor battery is enough but it's better to check your power system to determine if it requires more voltage. You could get a 24V lithium battery for trolling motor in case you do need higher output, or maybe even a 36V battery. 

How Long Will 100Ah Lithium Trolling Batteries Last?

Your battery's capacity is a determining factor of how long you can use it. In the case of trolling motor batteries, this can be calculated by knowing the current draw of your motor and travel speed. 

In simpler form, the formula would go like this: Run time = ah battery capacity / trolling motor current draw

So if you have a 100Ah lithium trolling motor battery and you're running at 54A full speed, your power pack will last about 1.85 hours or 1 hour and 51 minutes. 

How To Preserve the Lifespan of Trolling Motor Batteries?

Wait before recharging

You might think it's only logical to recharge trolling motor batteries right after use but this is not the case. It's actually better to wait for at least a night before you charge if you plan on using it again. Also, it's more advisable to not fully charge it as high voltages tend to stress the battery.

Keep it cool

Just like most power packs, trolling motor batteries should be kept at optimal temperatures. Too much heat can cause internal corrosion and worse, overheating. See to it that yours is charging in a climate-controlled room around with a temperature of around 60°F.

Avoid overuse

Yes we know-trolling motor batteries are convenient, but use them sparingly! One of the best ways to care for these types of power packs is to avoid overusing them to prolong their lifespan and keep their performance at best. 

More From Outbax

Forget typing "lithium trolling motor battery Australia" every time you need one. Go straight to Outbax and start shopping from our wide range of LiFePO4 batteries! There's no need to settle for cheap batteries that are inferior in performance here. All our power packs have been tested to deliver 100% real capacity and have earned hundreds of stellar reviews over the years. 

Don't miss amazing deals here. We deliver everything to your doorstep so whether you're after batteries in Brisbane or batteries in Dandenong, all you need to do is wait for your order to arrive. Looking for an alternative to batteries? Browse through our collection of other portable power sources including inverter generators, solar panels, and power stations!