Best Trolling Motor Batteries of 2023 – Welding Zilla

If you’re an angler, you know how important it is to have a reliable trolling motor battery. It’s the lifeblood of your boat, and without it, you won’t be able to navigate the waters effectively. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best trolling motor batteries available in 2023. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, we’ve got you covered with the best trolling motor battery options.

Best Trolling Motor Battery – Top 5 Picks for 2023

Best Trolling Motor Batteries are helpful in a wide variety of applications, Therefore, finding the best option depends on the intended use. All anglers understand that trolling motors apply to shallow boats.

They are also found in inflatable boats. As trolling motors become more versatile and famous, this guide discusses our best options that will give you value for money, and some helpful tips to help you find the best trolling motor battery for your power needs.

Universal Power Pack 12V battery

Looking for a solid trolling motor designed for versatility? Then the 12V battery from the Universal Power Group ends your search. It is perfect for a wide variety of exciting outdoor activities such as camping, fishing and is suitable for RVs.

With an outstanding 100 mAh, this battery provides sufficient charging power for large and small tugs.

As an AGM battery, the Universal Power Group 12V ensures that you do not have to worry about maintenance. It is completely sealed and does not require a liquid refill. It also means the battery can withstand shock and vibration without affecting performance.

So if you are speeding or sailing in rough water, your battery performance will not drop. Plus, leaks will be the least of your concerns.

Universal Power Group’s 12V battery is compact, measures 12.17 “X 6.61” X 9.16 “and weighs about 64 pounds, so it can be mounted in various positions, which is great news for anglers who need the space on their boats. To extend battery life to 5 years, it is recommended that it be discharged to 50%.

DCM0035 12V Interstate Batteries

If you’re looking for a pocket-sized trolling motor battery, the DCM0035 is an excellent choice. While this 35 Ah battery is a good fit for trolling motors up to 40 pounds, it’s at its peak, with motors dropping between 18 and 30 pounds. With these motors, the DCM0035 can provide up to 5 hours of operating time, depending on the speed settings.

However, slower speed settings on smaller boats with less powerful motors are where the DCM0035 excels. It is the best trolling motor battery for solo adventures in kayaks and other similar-sized ships.

Weighing in at 23.8 pounds and measuring 7.7 “x 5.2” x 6.3 “, the DCM0035 is one of the most compact and lightest batteries on the market.

As an AGM battery, it is maintenance-free and can withstand vibration without reducing load. It is also a 12V deep cycle battery that will provide up to 4 years of excellent use without any issues.

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Odyssey Trolling Thunder 34M

The Odyssey 34M-PC1500 Trolling Thunder Marine Dual Purpose Battery consists of a size 34 battery of BCI Group. It is truly a dual-purpose battery that combines good starting power with deep cycle capabilities.

These batteries are very similar and suitable for different functions and can be used as a starter/starter battery, electric motor battery, electric vehicle battery, etc.

It can be stored for up to two years without recharging, but it can be flipped and comes with a 4- or 4-year warranty. The battery is designed to be vibration resistant to avoid unnecessary shock or damage to the battery.

This is also what prolongs the life of the battery. This battery has been tested in extreme temperatures from -40 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit.

The battery’s AGM design means that it is entirely maintenance-free and requires no time-consuming level control or corrosion prevention. The Department of Transportation also approves the Odyssey battery to completely spill-resistant.

Reviewers claim that this is the best battery they have ever had for a variety of purposes. The battery has never failed compared to the competition, and it lasts longer and outperforms by any measure.

You pay a premium for that, but boaters say that if you want to find peace of mind and know that you won’t be stranded far from the boat ramp, the Odyssey Battery is for you.

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Mighty Max ML35-12 Deep Cycle AGM Battery

Mighty Max ML35-12 is a 12V 35Ah Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Deep Cycle AGM Battery Pack, suitable for use in various applications such as motorsports, solar power, electric vehicles, battery boot, golf carts, lawn and garden tools. Security, etc.

Although known as a “deep cycle” battery, it is often used as a dual-purpose battery in small boats and lighter vehicles with combustion engines.

The nominal capacity of the Mighty Max ML35-12 is 35 Ah; it can supply 1.75 A of current at 80 ° F (~ 25 ° C) for 20 hours without the voltage dropping below 10.5 V. When supplying much higher currents, the rated capacity drops, especially when discharged with higher currents.

Note that even small electric trolling motors need many amps – the Newport Vessels 36lb Thrust NV series electric trolling motor, for example, draws ~ 30A at full power.

Such a charge would completely discharge the Mighty Max ML35-12 battery in less than an hour.

With all of this in mind, if you plan to run 30-40 pound electric motors at full speed with an ML35-12 battery, expect no more than 30-40 minutes of operation.

However, most anglers using fishing kayaks or other similar smaller boats do not always run their electric motors at full speed. By decreasing the power, the required current is reduced, and therefore, the operating time is prolonged.

Depending on the fishing conditions, the boat’s size, and the fisherman’s habits, this operating time can be up to 2 hours or even more.

If you are looking for a battery with a long amp-hour rating while still being affordable, the Mighty Max ML35-12 may be just what you need.

This is a simple, affordable, and durable option that should work great for kayakers and those with small boats.

Interstate (AGM) Deep Cycle Battery DCM0035 Replacement Battery

This interstate battery review looked at the small 12v battery being tested. They come for under $ 100, which may be cheaper, but you get the performance you pay for with this.

The Interstate Deep Cycle battery can be mounted almost anywhere thanks to its small form factor and leak-proof design.

Since the battery can be overcharged, you need a battery charger that can be turned off once the battery is fully charged.

The smaller size allows the Interstate Marine Battery to be fully charged quickly. The smaller size and cost of the interstate deep cycle battery can cause boaters to grab or pass by wondering if interstate batteries are good value for money.

It all depends on the size of your boat, the size of your trolling motor. Is this your primary power source, or is it a secondary power source?

If the deep cycle marine battery that Interstate makes is right for you, it could be a great battery, but don’t expect your world to light up.

Interstate Batteries DCM0035 is one of the lightest trolling motor batteries available, making it easy to transport from charger to boat. It’s also very compact and even comes with a built-in carrying handle, making it even easier to transport from one place to another.

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VMAX MR127 12 Volt 100 Ah AGM maintenance-free battery for deep cycles

The VMAX MR127 is the premium battery of the VMAXTANKS that, in addition to driving a trolling motor, also provides enough power for many applications. Designed as a Group 27 battery, it is built for severe shock and vibration, and with the help of a power supply kit, you can further protect yourself.

One of the most significant drawbacks of this VMAX deep cycle battery is its cost; it weighs in at just under $ 300, making it more suitable for serious users who have a larger boat or high-thrust engine.

In the tests, it showed its strengths more than its drawbacks. It is not a good choice for small boat owners because the 12-volt marine battery takes up a lot of space.

That said, for serious use, the VMAX battery is probably the best in terms of overall usability, bit sizes, and cost, severely limiting how practical it is for most users.

8016-103 D34M Optima Batteries

Indeed, it is not the largest electric motor battery on the market. But the 8016-103 D34M offers several features that set it apart from the rest. For starters, it includes Spiral Cell technology.

This trolling battery consists of spiral lead plates responsible for providing it excellent efficiency and durable strength. Compared to flat plates, spiral counterparts offer up to 15 times more resistance to vibrations. Therefore, the 8016-103 D34M lasts longer and outperforms other 12V 55 Ah batteries, giving you excellent value for money.

Second, it can deliver 750 cold-cranking amps (CCA), which means it can power the motor even in harsh winters. Third, the 8016-103 D34M boasts impressive loading speed. Thanks to its low internal resistance, this electric motor battery has the fantastic ability to charge up to 90% in less than 1 hour.

This means less waiting time and more time in the water with this trolling battery. As an AGM battery, it has unmatched durability and can be mounted in various positions without leakage risk.

It Weighs 43.5 pounds, and its measurement is 10 “x 6.75” x 7.8. The 8016-103 D34M is more compact and lighter than a plethora of similarly sized motor batteries and is ideal for medium and small boats.

How Were The Trolling Motor Batteries Tested?

At WeldingZilla , we are dedicated to finding the best trolling motor battery for our readers. We understand the importance of choosing the right battery for the performance and reliability of a trolling motor, which is why we take the testing process very seriously.

To find the best battery, our team conducted a series of tests in our labs. First, we gathered a group of experienced boat owners and trolling motor users to test out different battery models. This allowed us to get a wide range of feedback and insights from people with different preferences and needs.

Next, we set up a series of test stations to evaluate the battery’s performance in different areas. We tested for factors such as capacity, cold cranking amps, and reserve capacity. We also tested the battery’s durability and performance in different weather conditions.

After gathering all of the data, we analyzed the results and compared the different battery models. We paid special attention to the feedback from the testers, as their experiences and opinions were crucial in determining the best battery.

Finally, after thorough testing and analysis, we were able to identify the top-performing battery. We are confident that this battery will provide our customers with the highest level of performance and reliability while using their trolling motor.

Overall, our team is committed to finding the best trolling motor battery for our customers, and we hope that our efforts will help make their boating experience a more enjoyable one.

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Types of Trolling Motor batteries

Several power sources that are most commonly used in trolling motors are rechargeable lithium-ion, AGM, and wet cell batteries. So we’ll take a look at each of these guys used to power your trolling motor.

LEAD CELL BATTERIES

Wet cell lead-acid batteries are probably the most affordable type of battery for an electric motor, and it is a traditional battery that uses liquid acid in its construction.

This is why they are called wet cells and sometimes flooded cells. These batteries are designed to withstand frequent charging and discharging and are therefore often traditionally used in automobiles.

This makes them a popular choice for trolling motors due to the frequent use and load expected from trolling motors. They are also resistant to overloading.

The downside to this type of battery is that it may require more maintenance due to battery acid, and you may need to add distilled water.

Another downside to these types is that they are not sealed and can leak battery acid. They also use pretty heavy lead plates.

They are also susceptible to corrosion due to leaks and other factors that can affect performance and ultimately damage it.

This is another reason why they require more maintenance and can be time-consuming, especially if you are about to hit the water when you discover it.

Vibrations that persist while in the water can cause further leaks and damage and possibly cause corrosive sulfuric acid to seep throughout your body and boat.

They also need a well-ventilated compartment, as they emit hydrogen gas. For this reason, many people prefer an AVA type.

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AGM BATTERIES

AGM stands for Absorbed Glass Mat, which refers to its construction using fiberglass mats. These batteries are completely sealed, which means they do not leak sulfuric acid, and no vented enclosures are required as the gases are safely contained within the construction.

Having a closed case generally means that you can install them in various positions, making them easier to fit on boats or kayaks with limited space or mounting options.

They charge faster and last almost twice as long as a wet cell, and they tend to put more power into a smaller area, making them lighter and space-saving, which can be ideal for smaller boats and kayaks.

The advantages are that they are maintenance-free and perform well as deep cycle electric motor batteries due to their ability to meet frequent charging and recharging demands.

Deep cycle means that your cycle is constantly used, drained and recharged, for the primary power source, compared to a floating cycle, which is generally used in generators or when batteries are used as a backup power source, the primary source of energy.

Another advantage is that they work well at low temperatures and are resistant to vibrations, making them a popular choice for trolling motor batteries due to their durability. However, they do not like heat as it can damage them and they can also become overcharged; but depending on the type of charger used, this can generally be avoided.

Another downside to glass mat AGM batteries is that they can cost significantly more than a wet cell battery, but the benefits generally outweigh this drawback.

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LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

If you want to reduce your boat’s weight, a lithium-ion battery will do it. They are much lighter than wet cell or AGM batteries, but they are also much more expensive. These are relatively new to the trolling motor market but are gaining popularity due to their high performance.

You may already be familiar with lithium-ion batteries as they are most often used in smartphones, laptops, and other devices. This is because they charge quickly and generally last quite a long time if you don’t let them overheat.

For trolling motors, they are often used by tournament anglers as the lighter weight means you can increase your speed and the quick load time means you can fish without delay.

Best Trolling Motor Battery – Buying Guide

Battery Type

Several types of batteries are available, but generally, two types are used to power trolling motors: wet cell lead-acid batteries and absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries.

The former is usually cheaper but requires the user to add water periodically, while the latter are maintenance-free and generally last longer. However, AGM batteries are often more expensive than their lead-acid counterparts.

Amp-hour rating

A battery’s amp-hour rating indicates how long a battery will run at a given amperage. For example, if you select a 100 amp-hour battery, it should provide four amps for approximately 25 hours.

This is one of the essential features that many anglers need to consider, especially those who like to take long trips or use high-current motors.

Cold start amps are an essential consideration for many applications, but this rating is not very important to anyone looking for a trolling motor battery. Instead, you want to focus on the battery’s spare capacity.

CHARGE TIME

How long the battery will last on a single charge depends on the type of battery you have and the type of motor you are using. It also depends on whether you are driving at full speed or not and whether you are pulling a heavy load.

The best way to calculate how long it will take is to determine your motor’s power consumption. Then calculate the hours by dividing the battery amp-hours by the motor amperes.

For example, if your battery is 100 amp-hours and your motorbike is 20 amps at medium speed, you get 5 hours of battery life. The longer the battery life in amps, the longer it will last on a charge, and likewise, the higher the amperes the motor requires, the faster it will drain (high discharge rate).

LIFE EXPECTANCY

Different types of batteries have different lifespans, and the way they are handled can also affect their lifespan.

In general, a wet cell battery lasts from one year to two and a half years, with frequent use and charging. An AGM battery typically lasts for 3-4 years, and a lithium-ion battery lasts about ten years.

If you keep them in the recommended, cool and dry environment, you should get the maximum life expectancy from them.

In general, you will find that the batteries last longer on a floating cycle than on a deep cycle. This is because deep cycle use is much more demanding due to frequent charging, draining, and recharging.

Batteries last significantly longer when used only for the float cycle, as they are not constantly charged or damaged by overheating. However, you will be more likely to use it on a deep bike for a trolling motor unless you have a spare motor.

SIZE

The size of battery you will need for your kayak’s trolling motor probably depends on a few things. First of all, you may want to make sure that the battery you choose will fit your kayak.

Some fishing yachts may have battery compartments, so it may be a good idea to check the compartment’s dimensions if it does. Keep in mind that a smaller battery (like the one you would use in a kayak) may not last as long as the larger ones used on larger boats.

You can also think about how much your battery weighs and whether it can affect your boat’s performance. You probably don’t want to carry a heavy battery with the rest of your gear, either.

It may be a good idea to make sure that the battery you choose is suitable for your electric motor and has enough amp hours to run the motor for as long as you want.

Usually, you will need a 12-volt battery for your 12-volt motor, but remember that you may need more than one battery if you are using a 24 or 36-volt electric motor.

Voltage

Of course, most electric motor batteries you come across are 12V. That is why they feed the on-board electronics and motors with the same voltage. But if the motor is 24 V, you will need a few 12 V batteries to provide enough power. Usually, you will have a 12V motor unless it is high-end. That’s why most trolling motor batteries are a good fit for your boat.

Durability

Long-life batteries will, of course, last longer. So keep your eyes peeled for features that boost battery life. For example, AGM batteries are completely sealed in their case. This, in turn, reduces their susceptibility to leaks, damage, and shock or vibration problems.

But AGM batteries are more expensive than wet cell batteries. Ultimately, greater sustainability entails costs. However, throwing away the extra money means longer battery life that pays for itself years later.

Maintenance

Wet cell batteries require some maintenance from time to time. It means filling them with filtered water, then looking for corrosion signs and cleaning them if necessary. With the perfect “cocktail” of baking soda and water, removing corrosion is a breeze. Admittedly, this is more complicated than the battery is worth.

But don’t forget that wet cell batteries are very affordable. So the need for less maintenance can be worth it for anglers to save extra money. In contrast, lithium-ion and AGM batteries do not require any maintenance.

So inspecting the water level or the inside of the battery for signs of damage is the least of your worries. Although they are more expensive than the wet cell, they are 100% maintenance-free.

Weight

Along with its size, the weight of the trolling motor battery affects its overall performance. So make sure it is not too heavy for your boat. When you reach the weight of your boat, the battery will drain significantly faster.

Therefore, choose a lighter battery when it reaches the maximum capacity. Fortunately, countless anglers don’t have a lot of weight on board, which means a heavier battery isn’t a problem. Batteries typically weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Anything less than 30 pounds is suitable for kayakers.

Note that if you are using a smaller boat, make sure the battery is not too large; otherwise, it could negatively affect efficiency. If you have a high charging capacity onboard, a heavier battery will be better suited for better performance.

Also, if you need to transport the battery to and from the boat every time you use it, a more compact and lightweight option is best. But if it is permanently installed on the boat, the weight does not matter since you do not need to carry it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many seasons of use can I get from an AGM battery?

This differs from battery to battery. Some people claim they can get up to 10 years with an AGM battery, while others claim they can only get 2-3 years. Another essential factor determining how many seasons you get from your AGM battery is the charger you use. If you invest in a great charger recommended by the battery manufacturer, you have a better chance of extending battery life.

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Why are deep cycle batteries the best for trolling motors?

Deep cycle batteries are designed to discharge their energy over a long and gradual period. This is perfect for drag bikes as it can be in the water for 8 hours or more.

For this to happen with a rechargeable battery, you need something that will last. Regular batteries will drain all of your power too quickly, while deep cycle batteries will keep you from getting stuck in the water.

How many amps do trolling motors draw?

In most cases, it is dependent on a battery, but usually, it ranges from 30 to 116. However, the average range of amps, in turn, depends upon the size and voltage of a battery.

How long can a trolling motor run on a deep cycle battery?

The bigger the battery, the longer it will last. Typically, for every 25 amps of battery power, you get 4 hours of run time.

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What kind of charger do I need for AGM batteries for electric motors?

Each manufacturer recommends a specific charger, but the most important thing is to have a charger with ample amperage and is compatible with an ABM battery. However, it is always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps extend the life of your battery and gives you an overall better experience.

How important is a Battery Warranty?

Battery warranties are essential because you want to make sure you’re covered when you need them. More critical than guarantees, however, are the opinions of users. Some companies offer warranties of up to 5 years, and others offer just a few months. If the battery has good reviews and a short warranty, it could mean that the battery’s quality is good, and the company is confident about that.

How do I find the group size of my old batteries?

You can often find this on the battery or in the manual if you still have one. An excellent quick search should also reveal a better way to find it on your specific battery.

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Are AGM batteries worth the price compared to wet cells?

Are you looking for a low-maintenance battery with a longer lifespan than a wet cell? AGM batteries will give you fewer headaches in the long run. It is an investment in peace of mind.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve read this article, you should better understand the types of batteries available, so hopefully, you can find the right type you need for your specific requirements.

As long as you know the voltage of your trolling motor and the power you need for your boat, you can make the right decision.

Keep in mind that if you’re in a kayak, you probably want your power source to be as compact and light as possible so that it doesn’t add too much to your load.

Besides, adding weight to your kayak or boat with a heavy battery also means that the motor is pulling more weight, which can affect both your speed and the number of hours you charge.

So when you choose, make sure your power source meets the needs of both your engine and your boat, but don’t forget to factor in the amount of time you want to spend on the water, the frequency of your trips, and how you plan to charge it.