Adding a trolling motor to a kayak can make it easier and more fun. It can also give you the ability to bring gear that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to take with you. Luckily, adding a motor is not very difficult or expensive.
Is a trolling motor on a kayak worth it?
a trolling motor would just add extra weight and more difficulty with loading, unloading, and transport. Having a trolling motor on a boat designed for paddling seems to be the epitome of laziness and takes away a great and fun way to be active and exercise.
How big of a trolling motor do you need for a kayak?
Many trolling motors with 35-45 lbs of thrust will propel smaller kayaks in the range of 7-foot at slightly less than 4 mph in still waters, including lakes and ponds. However, there are a few fishing kayaks that aren’t quite that small.
Size of Trolling motor for a kayak:
| Pounds of thrust | Watts | Amps |
|---|---|---|
| 86 lbs | 1152 | 48 |
How fast will a 55 lb thrust trolling motor go on a kayak?
Assuming perfect riding conditions, the use of the best fuel i.e. the distillate marine diesel, and moderate load, 55-pound trolling motors are likely to attain a maximum speed of only 5 miles per hour. This would take around two hours for the deep cycle battery charge to get completely depleted.
How deep should my trolling motor be in the water on a kayak?
The rule of thumb is that the top of the motor section should be submerged 12″.
How long do batteries last with trolling motor?
6-8 hours seems reasonable with an older motor. Battery group size could play a role in life but on a 12v older power drive a 24 to 27 group battery running between 6-8 hours is in line with where you can expect yourself to be.
How much thrust does a kayak need?
Ideally, you need a minimum of two pounds of thrust per 100 pounds of weight you want to move. Most trolling motors are made for small boats, which means they have more than enough power to drive your kayak through the water. That said, power is still an important consideration because you don’t want too much.
How long can you run a trolling motor?
Almost 5 hours doesn’t seem too bad, but that is really a max runtime in ideal conditions. Reality is likely to be less. If the battery is old, damaged or not fully charged then you will not get the rated amp hours from it, reducing your runtime. Significant cold or hot weather will also reduce your runtime.
How long will a trolling motor battery last on a kayak?
Trolling Motor Amp Draw
| Trolling Motor Thrust | Amp Draw – High Speed | Runtime – Low Speed |
|---|---|---|
| 30lbs and less | 30 amps | 20 hours |
| 40lbs – 70lbs | 40 amps | 20 hours |
| 80lbs – 100lbs | 50 amps | 20 hours |
What is a good size motor for a kayak?
Most anglers choose a 30-pound motor that will push the kayak at a respectable speed without quickly draining the battery. Larger kayaks, loaded with gear and electronics, require a more powerful 50-pound motor.
Do you need a license to kayak on a canal?
Can I canoe on the canal? Yes, everyone is welcome to canoe on our canals and rivers. However, you will need to get a small craft license before paddling on the water.
Is two trolling motors faster than one?
Two motors in the back will just push the bow a little higher in the air, and the stern will dig in deeper, slowing you down. The boat will be faster with a trolling motor if it’s level in the water.
Does trolling motor thrust matter?
Arguably the most important consideration when you are looking for the right trolling motor is how much thrust your boat will need. Thrust, measured in pounds (lbs) is the standard measure of how powerful a motor is.If there’s one thing you want to avoid, it’s purchasing a trolling motor with too little thrust.
What is the fastest trolling motor?
Our Top 3 Highest Thrust Trolling Motors
| Product | Thrust | Propeller |
|---|---|---|
| Minn Kota Freshwater Transom | 30 lbs, 40 lbs, 45lbs to 55 lbs. | Power propeller |
| Goplus Electric Trolling Motor Thrust Transom | 46lbs, 55lbs, and up to 86lbs. | 3 blade propeller |
| Newport Vessels Thrust Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor | 36 lbs and 55lbs | Power Propeller |
How far below the water should a trolling motor be?
about 12-18 inches
A trolling motor’s ideal propeller should be at a depth that keeps about 6 inches of water above the blades. In other words, the centerline of the motor and the prop shaft should be about 12-18 inches below the waterline, depending on the make, model and dimensions of the trolling motor.
What is the strongest trolling motor?
Minn Kota
Minn Kota has introduced the most powerful trolling motor on the market featuring 112 pounds of thrust.
How far down should the trolling motor be in water?
12"
Submersion Rule: You’ll want the top of the motor submerged at LEAST 12″ under the water to ensure adequate power and to prevent noisy cavitation which will scare fish.
Can I put a motor on a kayak?
It is possible to put a motor on a kayak. Small trolling motors with a low HP (horse power) are needed as powerful engines will make the kayak difficult to control and too stern heavy. Electric trolling motors work the best with kayaks because they are lightweight and do not require fuel to be stored onboard.
Can I use a car battery for my trolling motor?
Will my car battery work for my trolling motor? No, car batteries are not recommended and can ruin your motor.
How often should I charge my trolling motor battery?
Batteries that are left to sit with less than 12.4 volts are prone to the formation of lead sulfate inside the cells, which will severely impact their performance and lifespan. It’s a good idea to use a trickle charger during the offseason to keep power flowing through the battery, or to re-charge them every month.
Are kayak motors any good?
Maximum work efficiency and durability are most important when using a kayak motor in a saltwater environment. Look for a kayak motor made of anti-rust materials, making the motor durable and long-lasting. Saltwater electric motors are always a good way to go because they are good for both freshwater and saltwater use.
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