The Best Trolling Motor Battery – Our Top 8 Picks

The most horrendous thing that can happen to any angler out there is when their trolling motor dies in the middle of their fishing trip.

Not only will it hamper your fishing experience, but it will keep you wondering how you can go back to shore. Finding the best trolling motor battery sometimes requires expertise and skill, just as you need specific strategies when fishing.

Though motor batteries can be quite expensive, some amazing products on the market today have found the balance between budget and quality.

You do not need to buy the cheapest or most expensive one. We want to find common ground where you get a trolling motor battery that works well and still stays within your budget range.

Two Types of Trolling Motor Battery

When purchasing a trolling motor battery, you need to know what the different types are. That way, you will have an idea of what suits your fishing needs better. The recommended batteries for trolling motors involve two types of deep-cycle 12V batteries.

For those unfamiliar with deep-cycle batteries, these batteries are made to discharge small amounts of current over an extended time.

However, these batteries also need frequent recharging. The two types of deep-cycle batteries recommended for trolling motors are lead-acid wet cells and AGM batteries.

So what are these batteries?

Lead Acid Wet Cell batteries are the most common and most affordable option for anglers. This type of battery has a lifespan of 1 to 2 ½ years. It often costs less than $100, so anglers on a tight budget may prefer this type. Unfortunately, lead-acid wet cell batteries require frequent maintenance. You may also experience vibration and spillage from time to time.

The other battery type is AGM. AGM stands for Absorbed Glass Matt. These batteries have a longer lifespan and last longer when fully charged since the batteries are sealed. You can use an AGM battery for three to four years.

The only downside of this battery is that it is way more expensive than the lead-acid wet cell batteries. But if you have the budget, these batteries are still worth investing in since they last longer and perform better. They are also 100% maintenance-free, so you do not need to worry about anything at all.

Lithium Ion Battery: A Premium Choice

If budget is the least of your worries, then try a lithium ion battery. This battery upholds the highest rank when it comes to the best trolling motor battery.

Lithium batteries are more superior to lead-acid wet cells and AGM batteries. They also have a longer life span and do not require maintenance too.

Lithium batteries are usually lightweight and can hold constant power with fast charging time. They are also temperature-resistant and have an 80% rated capacity for more than 2000 miles. A lithium battery is the best choice if you have enough money to spend.

Best Trolling Motor Battery

1. Expert Power EXP12180 12V 18Ah Lead Acid Battery

Expert Power is one of the most affordable batteries on this list. It is a sealed lead-acid battery and secured with nuts and bolts. It has a durable case cover that can resist high-impact bumps, heat, vibration, and shock.

Being a sealed lead acid battery, it makes use of AGM technology to further enhance its prowess. It is also very convenient to install and comes with the hardware needed for installation.

2. Interstate Batteries DCM0035 12V 35Ah Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery

Another sealed lead acid battery that makes our list of the best trolling motor battery comes from Interstate Batteries. Since it is an SLA battery, this does not require any maintenance too. It features AGM and valve-regulated technology, which eliminates overpressure and spills.

The battery delivers a steady performance during use. It is also lightweight, which makes it a wonderful company for trolling motors.

On top of that, you can use this battery for kayaks and canoes too. It is compact and does not take a lot of space. You can mount it at any angle you are comfortable with.

3. Mighty Max ML35-12 12V 35AH SLA Battery

Might Max produces several batteries, making them a top-rated manufacturer. The battery features suspended electrolytes between fiberglass mats to ensure exceptional safety. This mechanism protects you and your equipment from unwanted harm that may arise with battery use.

The battery also boasts of long service life and a high discharge rate. The non-spill design makes it a good pick, especially when you have to mount it in any position except upside down.

The battery also resists shocks and vibrations, all thanks to its durable casing. Moreover, it operates well in a wide range of temperatures so that you can fully enjoy your fishing experience wherever you may be.

4. Optima OPT8016-103 Batteries D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery

Optima D34M provides reliable power for your boats and RVs. It also gives 15 times more resistance against shock and vibration, making it a durable pick for your fishing needs.

It has Spiral Cell Technology. This technology is a configuration of two 99.99% pure lead plates that are coated with lead oxide, so it generates more power consistently.

In addition to the Spiral Cell Technology, Optima D34M also uses 99% virgin lead plates. It makes the battery lightweight as opposed to other batteries with the same power capacity. Furthermore, the battery has a dual purpose intended for starting and deep cycling.

5. Interstate Batteries DCM0100 12V 110AH SLA/AGM Deep Cycle Battery for Solar, Wind, and RV

Another best trolling motor battery from Interstate Batteries is the DCM0100. It has a deep-cycle design that works with most backup systems.

It also has 99% glass recombination, which makes it a power-efficient choice. Just like all the batteries on this list, the DCM0100 is a maintenance-free battery. It is sealed, so you don’t need to worry about spills and exposure to hazardous chemicals.

DCM0100 also has a computer-generated grid design combined with a strong plate to ensure high-power density and extended life span. Furthermore, it presents a one-way pressure relief valve to ensure safety and guarantee the battery’s longevity.

Interstate Batteries always aim for the best, so they have equipped this battery with a polypropylene case and a cover welded thermally to stop any bond leakage. You can mount it sideways and upright if wanted.

6. VMAX XTR31-135 12V 135AH Trolling Motor Battery

VMAX is known to produce tough batteries for tough conditions. This deep cycle marine battery gives reliable and steady power when you are out in the water.

Being an AGM battery, you can safely install this battery at any angle. The battery won’t get damaged if and when there is accidental water submersion. The battery can last for 10 to 12 years with its superior plates and floating service application.

On top of all the features mentioned, this trolling motor battery can provide a superior power source for large trolling motors. It can deliver 6.75 amps per hour for more than 20 hours.

It also has a reserve capacity of 265 minutes. Though it is a deep cycle battery, it can help start medium-sized motors during emergencies because it has a CCA rating of 730 amps.

7. Ampere Time 12V 50AH Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

Do you have a huge budget and money to spare? If yes, then the best trolling motor battery we recommend for you is the lithium battery.

Though a lithium battery is way expensive than other batteries, the price is worth the investment because of its amazing features. This Ampere Time lithium battery is one of the two lithium batteries we want to recommend.

The battery has automotive-grade LiFePO4 cells. This make-up gives it greater power and steady performance throughout.

Additionally, it does not contain any acid. You can safely mount it in any position that you want without worrying about any leaks. It has an IP65 waterproof level, which protects it from accidental water immersion.

8. Scream Power 12V 80AH Lithium Battery

Scream Power tests every battery they ship, so you can rely on their credibility in ensuring that each customer receives only the best trolling motor battery.

Specifically engineered to provide optimum performance and durability, this lithium battery is 50% lighter than lead-acid batteries. There is also no memory effect. It means that you can use it as soon as the battery has been charged.

Scream Power’s LiFePO4 battery has a flat discharge curve that holds more than 12V. It also has 90% more capacity than a lead-acid battery. Given the powerful and steady supply of power from this battery, you can be assured that you get the best deal for its price.

Things You Need to Consider

Each person has different needs. One battery may work well for this person but not for the other. That is because each battery also has its own specifications and features. No batteries are the same, even if it seems that they have similar traits. Before buying the best trolling motor battery, here are some of the things you need to consider.

Voltage

As you can see from the above list, most trolling batteries have 12V. That means they can power motors and other stuff on the boat that is 12V. Some large trolling motors may require 24V.

When this happens, you can get two 12V batteries to power it up. Before purchasing a battery, check the voltage of your trolling motor first so that you’ll know how many batteries to buy.

Maintenance

Are you willing to do some maintenance work on the battery? If yes, how much effort are you willing to put into it?

Maintenance is an important aspect for every battery unless otherwise stated as maintenance-free. Lead-acid wet cell batteries require maintenance. You need to occasionally inspect it for signs of corrosion. You also have to clean it and add filtered water from time to time.

On the other hand, AGM batteries do not require any maintenance at all. Lithium batteries may or may not require maintenance, depending on the manufacturer’s guide.

Maintenance-free batteries are very tempting to have, considering that they can save you a lot of time and effort. The downside, however, is their expensive price tag.

Amp Hour Rating

Each battery has different amp ratings. So, you need to be very mindful of this. The higher the amp rating, the longer the battery can last.

Budget

Talking about the price tag, you need to consider your budget. How much are you willing to cash out for a piece of battery?

Regardless of what you can afford, you can still get the best trolling motor battery within your price range. If you have more to spare, investing in AGM or lithium batteries is highly recommended.

You do not need to worry about maintenance and spills. Such batteries also have a long lifespan, so you can actually save in the long run.

But fret not if you are on a tight budget. You can still get a quality lead-acid wet cell battery for an affordable price. All you need to do is to be patient and meticulous when keeping it in shape.

Recharging Time

Recharging time is often overlooked, but this is one of the most essential considerations. AGM provides the fastest charging time. Fast charging allows you to enjoy more fishing time since you do not need to wait for hours on end until the battery becomes fully charged.

Battery Type

Of course, you need to know which one suits you best and when it comes to different battery types. You now have a good idea of the basics for each type.

Each type has its own pros and cons, from budget to maintenance to other key features. Make a checklist about the pros and cons, and see which among the battery types you prefer and fit your budget.

Size

Another important thing to consider before buying the best trolling motor battery is the size. Batteries come in different sizes, and you need to make sure that the battery you want fits on your boat.

Though most batteries can be installed in any direction, it is still customary to get the right battery size for your boat.

A larger boat requires a bigger battery size as it contains more power. Conversely, a smaller boat can do well with a compact size battery.

However, if you have enough space to spare for a larger battery on your small boat, you can also make use of a larger one. That way, you can be assured that the battery won’t die down in the middle of fishing.

Weight

Batteries are drained faster when the maximum weight capacity of the boat is reached. You need to choose a lightweight battery to counteract the weight the boat has to carry.

If you have a small boat or have to carry the battery to and from the boat most of the time, do not go for heavy batteries. But if you have a large boat, a heavy battery may be more efficient and reliable in providing the power that the boat needs.

Takeaway

Fishing is a nice pastime. It can get annoying when you have to stop fishing to recharge the battery. So, choose the best trolling motor battery wisely.

With the different batteries we provided, you can narrow down your choices and pick the best one. Just be sure to keep all our considerations in mind as you narrow down your choices for the best trolling motor battery.