“Electric trolling motors are here to stay in our Northeast fishery”
As we get closer to opening day of the 2026 fishing season, we’re going to break into some new editorial ground as we get our minds, instincts and boats ready to go. Starting in this month’s issue and continuing for April and May, we’ll introduce our new electric trolling motor roundup for this season, before getting into the best battery options to power your electric trolling motor in April, following up with proven tactics on how to best put that new trolling motor and battery setup to good use, inshore or offshore, coming in May.
But suffice to say, electric trolling motors are here to stay in our Northeast fishery. Once considered mostly a fad or a tool simply for use on the largemouth circuit or along the Florida flats, trolling motors are now being installed on ever-increasing numbers of coastal sport fishing boats and for good reason – they really work and tilt the edge in your favor.
| LEARN MORE |
| Is an electric trolling motor right for your style of fishing and where do you put it? Talk to a friend who has one, get a ride on his rig to see what it’s like firsthand, work with a sales pro to find the right trolling motor for your boat, power it correctly based on your voltage needs and available battery storage area space and go out there and catch more fish! It can be that simple, but do your research first, talk to a marine electronics specialist to go over the layout of your boat, and be sure to follow our three-part series continuing in the April and May editions of The Fisherman Magazine for more details. |
The term “game-changer” is often overused, to the point where it has now become somewhat trite. However, in the case of using an electric trolling motor in the bays or out on the open ocean, it makes a huge difference in your capabilities, increasing hookups dramatically. It can put you on the fish, keep you on the fish and allow you to follow a drift line or bottom feature, even with the wind against the current, while other anglers can only look on with envy.
Whether you are drifting the bays or inlets for fluke or weakfish, working over a reef or wreck for sea bass, trying to hold your position along productive bottom in moving water, using GPS-assisted maneuvering to work a deepwater wreck, or holding over a school of voracious tuna while they ravage a pod of sand eels, the electric trolling motor can enhance your ability to bend rods exponentially. I’ve seen it enough times up close and personal to think any other way.
Trolling motors typically are offered in a trio of voltages, specifically 12-volt, 24-volt and 36-volt, with an increased amount of voltage required to develop additional push at the prop to handle larger, heavier boats in moving water. Shaft lengths for these electric motors can range from 48 to 110 inches or more, with larger and more powerful new models coming out each season. I’ve seen some fishing catamaran designs in the 31- to 34-foot range employ twin electric trolling motors to keep them rock steady over prime fishing territory.
Some of the older designs employ motors that us brushes to operate, while many of the newer model now feature “brushless” motor technology that can be both quieter and more energy efficient. Now that I’ve piqued your interest, let’s dive into the deep end and see what the major players have to offer for the 2026 model year.
MINN KOTA
Minn Kota has been leading the way in the world of electric trolling motors for over a decade with a number of improvements like next-gen brushless motors and self-deploying models, with their GPS “Spot Lock” feature becoming a generic term among trolling motor users for holding over a productive reef, wreck or rocky point in moving water. The original Riptide Terrova brought them to the dance, featuring a proven technology to work its Spot Lock and drift mode magic. The Minn Kota Riptide Terrova is one of the most trusted saltwater trolling motors on the water, delivering unmatched boat control, power and reliability.
Built around Minn Kota’s most advanced GPS trolling system, it features Spot-Lock with Jog, Autopilot and intuitive wireless remote control to keep you precisely positioned on productive water no matter the wind, waves and current. With powerful thrust, effortless stow and deploy, long-lasting battery efficiency from Digital Maximizer and the legendary Weedless Wedge 2 prop, Riptide Terrova is a proven workhorse designed to help anglers fish smarter, longer and with total confidence in any saltwater environment. The 12-volt motor produces 55 pounds of thrust and is available in 54, 60, 72 and 87-inch versions. The 24-volt flavor of this Riptide Terrova series generates 80 pounds of thrust and is available in the identical four shaft lengths. The big gun 36-volt model puts out a whopping 112 pounds of electric propshaft power and is offered in 54, 60, 72 and 87-inch shaft lengths. (Prices range from $2,550-$4,000)
The latest sibling to join the lineup is the Riptide Kayak Terrova. For saltwater kayak anglers seeking effortless control, reliable power and the ability to lock in their fishing spot, the Minn Kota Riptide Kayak Terrova delivers. Built for saltwater conditions, this trolling motor features a durable 36-inch composite shaft, weedless prop and advanced corrosion protection. Anglers can control the motor from the Micro Remote, a connected Humminbird fish finder, or the One-Boat Network App for effortless navigation. The advanced GPS trolling system includes Spot-Lock, Autopilot, Drift Mode and Follow Mode, allowing kayakers to instantly hold position over productive areas. Seamless integration with Humminbird electronics ensures total system control. With unmatched precision, power and durability, the Riptide Kayak Terrova transforms saltwater kayak fishing, helping anglers fish longer, more confidently, with increased efficiently. The MSRP for this model is around $1,900.
The Riptide Terrova Quest series was introduced a few years back featuring the Quest brushles,s high-efficiency motors that deliver more torque and longer run times for harsh, demanding saltwater environments. These newly redesigned Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Quest motors are loaded with new features to make your time on the water more efficient and enjoyable. The Riptide Terrova Quest is renowned as one of the most trusted, proven and capable motors on the water. It consistently delivers results, providing the right push when anglers need it to move against the elements and keep them in place when they need to hold their position.
The Quest models are equipped with longer shaft lengths and increased power and torque, with a 24V/36V combo motor that offers either 90 pounds of thrust at 24 volts or 115 pounds at 36 volts, available in 60, 87 or 100-inch shaft lengths. The Terrova Quest provides anglers with enhanced flexibility and control to take larger boats on bigger water and overcome greater challenges. MSRPs range from $3,800-$5,500, depending on the model.
The Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest is a revolutionary saltwater trolling motor that redefines convenience and performance for anglers. Built to endure tough conditions, it eliminates manual control, allowing anglers to focus on fishing. With the ability to operate in depths over 8 feet, it’s suitable for larger boats with limited bow access, eliminating manual stow and deploy hassles. The dual 24- or 36-volt brushless motor offers 30% longer runtime and 50% more torque for precise control. Auto Stow/Deploy simplifies water entry and exit, while Power Trim adapts to changing conditions.
With a redesigned mount, carbon fiber-infused shaft, peak performance propellers, real-time battery monitoring, customizable presets and an ergonomic wireless remote, the Instinct Quest takes saltwater angling to new heights. It’s available in white or black with shaft lengths ranging from 60 to 100 inches, offering a hands-free and efficient fishing experience in challenging environments. MSRP prices range from $4,700-$5,400.
NAVICO
The Navico Group is part of Brunswick’s vertical empire that also includes Mercury Marine, Sea Ray and Boston Whaler, among other big names. Navico is one of the world’s leading suppliers of integrated systems and products in the marine industry and beyond, comprised of industry-leading brands in power management, digital control & monitoring, networked devices, and marine electronics. Some of the many brands that make up Navico Group include Ancor, Attwood, B&G, BEP, Blue Sea Systems, C-Map, CZone, Lenco, Lowrance, Marinco, Mastervolt, MotorGuide, Progressive Industries, ProMariner, RELiON, Simrad and Whale.
Back in the summer of 2024, both Lowrance and Simrad simultaneously introduced their new Recon trolling motor, which gives anglers total control of their craft, with the confidence to go anywhere. Recon introduces Freesteer, a lightweight, wearable joystick remote providing full 360-degree precision steering. Combined with a wireless foot pedal (freshwater models only) with programmable keypad and seamless display integration via NMEA 2000, Recon delivers precision with few peers in the market.
Recon is built to put anglers on the target and keep them there. Excellent power and thrust give users the confidence to get into position, while the highly accurate GPS anchor holds them on the target, no matter the conditions, dialing into an incredible three foot radius. The FreeSteer remote revolutionizes positional control with its unique jogging abilities. Additionally, FreeSteer unlocks the ability to execute diagonal jogs in eight directions. Anglers also have the option to move anchor positions freely, in almost any direction, without having to re-anchor the boat. The brushless technology combined with the weedless prop, allow for searching into the densest weeds with no loss of control or efficiency. Recon’s silent brushless motor doesn’t spook fish and the integrated sonar technology offers the clearest high-resolution pictures.
The Lowrance and Simrad Recon trolling motors offer an upgradeable sonar nosecone option. The Lowrance Recon trolling motor starts at $3,299 and is available in fresh and saltwater versions. The freshwater is available in 48, 54, 60 and 72-inch shaft lengths, while the saltwater version is available in 54, 60, and 72-inch shaft lengths. Additionally, the Recon trolling motor comes with a lifetime shaft warranty. Key features include best-in-class power and precision GPS positioning; near-silent brushless 24V/36V motor; lightweight FreeSteer joystick remote with color LCD display; wireless, configurable foot pedal (freshwater models only); multiple accessory mount points; NMEA 2000 connectivity; lifetime shaft warranty; and a 3-year motor warranty. Simrad’s version of the Recon is saltwater only.
GARMIN
I spoke with Garmin rep Carly Hysell recently about what’s happening with their up-and-coming electric trolling motor brands. As one of the leading marine electronics manufacturers, and with their network of OEM boat builders that offer Garmin as a form of “house brand” on their vessels, it was a strategically sound mover for Garmin to get in the business a few years back. Garmin’s product line is divided into a trio of sub-groups, specifically Force Kraken for saltwater, Force Pro for the freshwater bass boat crowd and Force Current for the coastal kayakers.
Force Kraken electric trolling motors are designed for deep-vee hulls and saltwater boats where bow space is limited. Once you’ve found the fish, anglers can keep the boat where it belongs with Garmin’s precise anchor lock technology. LiveScope live sonar is easy to add, thanks to the ability to run the cable through the trolling motor shaft. The sturdy pivot-style mount frees up space on the deck and the various shaft lengths accommodate most boats with high freeboards. Users can draw a route with wireless chartplotter integration and let the trolling motor automatically navigate the route while you fish. The included remote makes speed and heading adjustments easy from anywhere on the boat.
With advanced corrosion protection, Force Kraken trolling motors are built for oceans and brackish water. The brushless motor design provides 100 pounds of thrust at 36 volts or 80 pounds at 24 volts and it’s optimized for harsh, open water. The advanced mounting and cable management architecture is designed with a pivot-style mount for easy installation in tight spaces. It features a built-in cable management system that allows for easy routing of LiveScope sonar cables, along with multi-band GPS and AHRS (Attitude and Heading Reference System) for extremely accurate anchor lock. The Garmin Force Kraken motors include a reverse thrust control for braking, Garmin smartwatch integration and a floating remote with gesture steering. They are available in white (saltwater-rated) and black (freshwater/general) versions, with some models including a built-in GT56UHD-TR transducer. Shaft lengths range from 48, 63, 75, 90 inches and the new 110-inch length introduced back in July of 2025. MSRP prices vary from $4,000-to-$6,500, depending on the model.
Garmin’s Force Pro trolling motors offer a scissor-style mount and choice of 50 or 57-inch shaft lengths, designed specifically for bass boats. Anglers can see everything around the boat with brilliant high-definition scanning sonar with the included all-in-one GT56UHD transducer. Once you’ve found the right spot, stay put with their precise anchor lock technology, now featuring reverse prop spin and calm-water cable unwrap to reduce motor activity. Users can make speed and steering adjustments wirelessly from anywhere on the boat with the included foot pedal or included remote with gesture control. You can also use your integrated chartplotter to draw a route, and the trolling motor will automatically navigate while you fish. The lighted indicator on the trolling motor shaft cap means you can fish in low light and always know what direction you’re headed. The Force Pro 24V/36V motor produces 80 pounds of thrust at 24 volts and 100 pounds of propshaft power at 36 volts. Prices range from $4,200-$4,300, based on shaft length.
The legendary performance of Force trolling motors is now available for your kayak as well. Introduced last July, the brushless Force Current trolling motor was purpose-built for kayak anglers looking for a rugged propulsion system with superior maneuverability. Keep an eye on your integrated chartplotter and fish without setting the rod down, with wireless steering and throttle pedals included with select bundles, or use the handheld remote for gesture steering. Get on and off the water fast with simple and intuitive installation and removal. The 12-volt model produces 30 pounds of thrust, which the 24-volt version increases that up to 50 pounds, with integrated smart anchor lock and multi-band GPS to hold position in wind or current. The MSRP for the portable Force Current is $3,600 and it’s available with a wireless hand controller or with foot pedals at an added cost.
RHODAN
Rhodan is a Sarasota, Florida-based company that started doing its thing way back in 1992 and is no stranger to the world of electric trolling motors. The new Rhodan Gen5 GPS-guided trolling motors for 2026 feature advanced 24-volt (48, 60 and 72-inch shaft lengths for boats up to 6,000-lbs) and 36-volt (48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 108-inch and an XXL 120-inch shaft length with 120 pounds of thrust) capabilities with improved, quieter performance and enhanced, durable electronics. Designed for boats up to 15,000 pounds, they offer 360-degree wireless, app-compatible control, an Intuitive Control display and superior anchor-lock.
The Rhodan Gen5 features list includes:
- Intuitive Control Display: A 5-inch screen directly on the motor for easy access to anchoring, heading lock and speed control.
- Smart Electronics: Enhanced Bluetooth range, better diagnostics, improved error handling and robust overload protection.
- Performance Upgrades: Increased thrust and a heavy-duty, water-resistant, gasket-sealed steering system designed for harsh saltwater environments.
- App Integration: Full control via a companion mobile app.
- Heavy Duty Hardware: Updated, heavy-duty latch mechanism for reliability.
- Integrated Sliding Base for Easier Mounting & Deployment: Provides 10 inches of slide front-to-back with locking points on each end of the puck, allowing for sliding and retracting of the motor both ways for deployment & docking.
- Built-In Simrad, Raymarine and Lowrance Integration: The Gen5 motor seamlessly integrates with Simrad, Raymarine and Lowrance systems and includes an app for full functionality of the motor in addition to control from the Rhodan app available on the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Some other capabilities of the new Rhodan Gen5 trolling motors include:
- Anchor Mode: Rhodan HD GPS Anchor+ Trolling Motor will keep the boat’s bow parked where you want it, in any depth of water, automatically compensating for wind, waves and cross-current. High definition precision differential GPS receiver provides remarkable positioning accuracy.
- Manual Mode: The system behaves just like a normal trolling motor, allowing the operator to wirelessly steer the system and control the thrust.
- Track Mode: Automatically pull the boat along a chosen course, continually compensating for wind and current disturbances.
- Advanced Mode: Allows the user to record a route and play it back on the autopilot.
The Gen5 series is designed to handle challenging, deep-water conditions and replaces older models with more precise, “set it and forget it” GPS positioning. Available in either black or white, the Gen5 features a heavy-duty latch mechanism, water-resistant gasket-sealed steering system and a 3-year recreational warranty. With more accurate anchoring and increased thrust, it’s your ultimate companion for battling currents or chasing trophies. The Gen V is Rhodan’s smartest trolling motor yet. Prices range from $3,600 to $6,000, depending on the voltage and shaft length. Keep an eye out for details on Rhodan’s 48-volt trolling motor to be introduced in July or August of this year.
POWER-POLE
Power-Pole, a division of JL Marine based in Tampa, FL, is yet another innovator in the ever-expanding electric trolling motor competitive space. They are currently offering three product lines, the Power-Pole MOVE PV, MOVE ZR and the bluewater focused MOVE PV Offshore.
The Move ZR is designed for boats with multiple fishfinders on the bow or trolling motors positioned further out on the bow. To stow or deploy the motor, just pull the Dyneema super cord, it’s that simple. With the Move ZR, you’ll have the strength and reliability you need to dominate the water with 45, 52 and 60-inch shaft lengths.
The MOVE PV was designed for flats, bay, and multispecies boats that demand a longer trolling motor shaft and is packed with advanced technology to give you total control over your fishing game. With a tool kit of finely tuned GPS navigation modes like Anchor Mode, Compass Heading and Vector Heading you’ll be prepared to dominate any depth with confidence. Shaft lengths include 36, 45, 52, 60 and 72-inch models. Made with a step-and-stow release system, MOVE PV comes with one of the most user-friendly and easy to use stow and deployment experiences on deck. With the innovative Step and Stow pedal, deploying the motor is effortless and efficient.
Get control exactly how you’d like with expertly crafted, user-friendly wireless controls made for seasoned fishermen. All of our wireless controllers work with every model of MOVE, so you can truly customize your trolling experience like never before. Get complete control of the MOVE PV and any compatible Power-Pole shallow water anchor right in the palm of your hand with their Wireless Hybrid Remote.
Built with an extended long-lasting rechargeable battery, every Wireless Hybrid Remote comes with its own dash mountable charging cradle so it’s ready when you are. The MOVE PV comes ready to work with both 24-volt and 36-volt configurations, so you can power up and change it up without worry. A new Power-Pole app gives anglers more customization than ever before. A full range of controls and configurations to fine-tune your trolling experience is easily available at the touch of a button. Power-Pole has partnered with ProNav to turn any device into a powerful Chartplotter for MOVE. Unlock a full suite of navigational functions like route creation, go to a point, cruise control and more.
All MOVE electric motors are designed with compound fail-safes, built with resilient components and backup systems on top of backup systems, on top of even more backup systems. MOVE’s shaft is constructed using unbreakable aerospace-grade titanium, one of the planet’s strongest, most corrosion-resistant yet lightweight metals, which is why they back it with a lifetime warranty. With their innovative approach to brushless technology and custom Stealth Steering Drive, MOVE is built to be quieter than anything you’ve never heard. It’s the first trolling motor in the world to be absolutely silent. MOVE ZR’s custom-built brushless motor was built using the Power Unity System, which is designed to optimize every aspect of performance and deliver more power at significantly lower RPMs. This gives MOVE 30% more thrust, 30% more efficiency and a whisper-silent operation compared to older models.
Rated to survive the saltiest conditions imaginable, Power-Pole’s exclusive powder coating process offers both a high-end look while remaining resistant to the toughest conditions nature can throw at you.
The Power-Pole MOVE PV Offshore accommodates the largest and most formidable boats with the longest shaft on the market. With its powerful horizontal thrust and precise GPS anchoring, MOVE Offshore is built for the challenges of big seas. The Power-Pole MOVE PV Offshore stands ready for the biggest, most powerful boats with one of the longest shafts (110 inches) in the industry. Its commanding horizontal thrust and pinpoint GPS anchoring give you the confidence to take on rough seas with ease. Whether you’re chasing trophy fish or navigating challenging waters, MOVE PV Offshore lets you tackle the toughest waters and return victorious every time.
MOVE PV Offshore features include:
- A robust architecture that’s rugged, reliable and relentlessly tested; multi-layered corrosion resistance; a carbon fiber reinforced titanium shaft; heavy duty mounting hardware; whisper silent operation; stealth steering drive; energy efficient motor; 24- and 36-volt compatible; 3-year mechanical warranty; 84, 96 and 110-inch shaft lengths; and a lifetime titanium shaft warranty.
- Each MOVE PV Offshore motor includes a wireless information display, two wireless hybrid remotes, a mountable charging cradle, precise GPS anchoring; a Power-Pole brushless motor, a reinforced Techflow propeller, built-in information display, hybrid step-and-stow deployment, integration with Raymarine Axiom chartplotters, advanced GPS navigation modes, an HD quick release mount and a Ram-tough claw.
Available in both black and white finishes, MSRP pricing ranges between $7,100 and $7,600.
