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5 Best Transom Mount Trolling Motor in 2023

Are you looking for the best transom mount trolling motor? There are so many options out there that it can be hard to choose.

If you’re like me, then you want the perfect product at a fair price. You also don’t want to waste time reading reviews online when there is fishing to do!

We’ve done all of the research and found the best transom mount trolling motors. Each one has unique features that will help you decide which is right for your needs!

Best Transom Mount Trolling Motor

1. Minn Kota 1368820

Longest Lasting Electric Trolling Motor

Minn Kota 1368820 Ultrex Freshwater Cable & Electric-Steer Bow-Mount Motor with Universal Sonar 2, Digital Maximizer & i-Pilot GPS, 112 lbs Thrust, 45″ Shaft
  • 45″ Shaft, 36v, 112 lbs Thrust
  • Universal Sonar 2: Keeps your transducer and wiring…
  • i-Pilot GPS Trolling System: The most-trusted GPS system in…

Key features:

  • Comes with Lift-assist
  • Features Unique Power steering
  • Built-in Minn Kota Digital maximizer
  • Autopilot, i-Pilot GPS trolling system

The Minn Kota trolling motor has a digital maximizer that does a great job conserving the battery to run your boat 5 times longer on a single charge.

Additionally, this trolling motor also comes with an ergonomic comfort steering feature so you can enjoy moving your boat with ease.

Lastly, this Minn Kota product features autopilot and i-Pilot GPS trolling systems which are good combinations for more efficient and advanced fishing.


2. Garmin Force

Ideal For Freshwater And Saltwater

Key features: 

  • Integrated Chirp sonar
  • Features Brushless motor
  • Handheld and remote control
  • Wireless foot pedal and Chartplotter

The Garmin Force trolling motor is considered the most efficient and most powerful trolling motor that operates quietly. Comes with a wireless Chartplotter that makes it easy for you to navigate. You can set the trolling motor on autopilot and keep the boat steady when fishing. 

It features CHIRP sonar, which gives you a clear image of ideal fishing spots and suppresses sonar noise to avoid scaring off the trophies. Furthermore, this trolling motor has energy-efficient brushless motors, which are great if you fish for long periods.


3. Motorguide X3 Trolling Motor – Freshwater

Built For Durability and Best Performance

Key features:

  • Delivers 55 lbs thrust
  • Variable ratio steering
  • Built-in direction indicator
  • Dual cable steering system
  • Features a foot control pedal

The Motorguide trolling motor features a foot pedal that gives you maximum control when operating it. It also has a dual cable steering system and variable-ratio setting for precise steering and maneuvering.

This product is built with metal-to-metal interfaces, so it’s quiet while operating and will not spook the fish when you’re out fishing. Also, this trolling motor can be used for freshwater and saltwater.


4. Haswing Black Cayman Electric Trolling Motor

Best Overall Choice

Black Haswing Cayman 12V 55lbs 48 inch Bow Mount Electric Trolling Motor Lightweight, Variable Speed, with Foot Control/Quick Release Bracket for Bass Fishing Boats Freshwater/Saltwater
  • Haswing Cayman 48 INCH Shaft Bow Mount Trolling Motor is…
  • The remote control fits into the palm of your hand easily or…
  • Cruise control (NOT Spot lock) keeps your boat at the…

Key features:

  • Cruise control (not spot lock)
  • Variable speed setting
  • Stow and deploy pedal
  • Comes with wireless remote control
  • Delivers 55 lbs thrust, 48″ aluminum shaft

The Haswing Trolling Motor offers convenient handling with its wireless motor control. It’s designed to be corrosion-resistant, so you can go fishing in both freshwater and saltwater. The cruise control feature lets you focus more on fishing.

This product will make your fishing experience more comfortable and fun by offering a strong, reliable motor. Furthermore, you can stow the motor easily with a single hand and easily transfer between the boat and the car through a quick-release pedal.


5.MotorGuide R5 Digital Saltwater Trolling Motors

Most Minimal Energy Consumption

Key features:

  • Delivers 105 lbs thrust
  • 42″ shaft trolling motor
  • Built-in Extending handle
  • Offers Long-lasting power
  • Digital power management technology

MotorGuide offers one of the best transom-mounted trolling motors for anglers who want long-lasting power when they’re fishing. It draws minimal energy consumption, so you can focus on getting a catch. 

Moreover, this product features a digital power management technology so you can monitor heat dissipation, parameters, and output for a more manageable fishing and trolling experience.

Lastly, it has an extending handle that makes the steering convenient for anglers.


best transom mount trolling motor
Source: Canva Pro

Factors to Keep in Mind When Buying Trolling Motors

Before you click the buy button, it is critical to review the factors to consider when purchasing a trolling motor. Check them out below. 

Thrust

Measures in pounds, thrust describes how much power a motor has. To determine how much thrust you need depends on your boat’s size and weight, etc. 

It is significant to mention that a higher thrust measurement can assist you in navigating strong currents and wind; however, the higher it is, the higher the possibility that you could scare the fish off.

Battery Runtime

The battery run time depends on the capacity measured in ampere-hours and the current draw measured in amperes. Other factors include the condition of the water, wind, and how fast you’re going.

For instance, if you operate at a higher speed, you will run in a shorter time. On the other hand, if you operate at a slower speed, you can conserve much more power and run longer.

Speed Control

The best trolling motors that come with variable speeds do a great job saving the motor’s life. Considering this feature, you can have a more convenient trolling from slow to quicker maneuvering.

Shaft Length

Shaft length is one of the most important things you should consider when buying the perfect size trolling motor for your boat. Choosing the wrong length for your fishing boat and the motor could lead to damaging the propeller.

For instance, if the shaft is too short, the motor might have difficulty repelling the boat. On the flip side, if the shaft is too long, it might hit bottom.

Saltwater Capability

Though several trolling motors can be used on freshwater and saltwater, you must check if the motor you consider buying states that it’s good for saltwater. 

It is important to note that freshwater trolling motors are not built for the salty attributes of the sea like a saltwater trolling motor. If you are mostly fishing on saltwater, a corrosion-resistant motor is a must to consider.

Mounting Your Transom Mount Trolling Motor

A transom motor is easier to install than other motors. It usually comes with a clamp that you can use to hold the motor in place.

To mount it, first, open the clamps and place the trolling motor perfectly. After placing it properly, tighten the clamp and make sure it does not shake the motor off.

Check out this video for a complete guide:

YouTube video

Conclusion

The transom mount is an innovative trolling motor that attaches to your boat’s transom. You can use it to catch fish in the shallows, or you can set up a long-lasting motor for fishing in deeper water.

It’s very simple to install, doesn’t take up much space, and the price is excellent.

We hope you learned from this guide. We know that fishing boats and trolling motors come in different features and specifications.

So don’t forget to note in mind the things to consider when buying a trolling motor for your boat. Have fun trolling on your next fishing adventure!

Diana Nadim
Fishing Expert
Diana began fishing at the age of seven, as it has been a long-time family tradition. From catching small bullheads to catching strippers on the backwaters of Bighorn, she loves to get out in the wild and have a marvelous day on the water. Her dad was an expert angler, and he taught her fishing along with her two siblings. They used to go to the Bighorn River in Montana and Henry’s fork, Idaho. As a pragmatic person, she is obsessed with creating well-researched and practical guides and reviews of the best fishing methods and gear.
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Articles » Gear Reviews » 5 Best Transom Mount Trolling Motor in 2023