Fishing kayaks are a great way to get out on the water and enjoy some fishing. They offer many advantages over traditional boats, including portability, affordability, and stealth. If you’re looking for the best fishing kayaks with trolling motors, you’ve come to the right place.
Best Fishing Kayaks With Trolling Motor Review
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at the best fishing kayaks with trolling motors. We’ve compiled a list of the top-rated kayaks on the market, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a kayak that’s easy to transport or one that’s packed with features, we have you covered. Keep reading for more information!
Fishing Kayak With Motor
1# Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor
Looking for a top-of-the-line kayak that can take your fishing game to the next level? Look no further than the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Sit-on-Top Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor. This innovative kayak is equipped with a trolling motor for unbeatable performance out on the water. Plus, with features like Minn Kota Spot-Lock, AutoPilot, and i-Pilot remote, you’ll be in complete control of your kayak at all times. The comfortable, adjustable seating system is perfect for long days on the water, and the four 18″ accessory tracks allow you to customize your kayak to suit your needs.
2# Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Sit-on-Top Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor is an innovative performance kayak that is perfect for fishing and hunting. With the Minn Kota Spot-Lock, AutoPilot, and i-Pilot remote, you can easily control the kayak while fishing or hunting. The comfortable, adjustable seating system with high and low positioning and great lumbar support provides a comfortable ride. The four 18″ accessory tracks provide plenty of space to add accessories. The two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush-mount rod holders are perfect for holding your rods while fishing. The non-slip EVA foam deck pads provide traction and comfort.
3# Ascend 133X Tournament Sit-on -Top Kayak with Yak-Power
The Ascend 133X Tournament Sit-On-Top Kayak with Yak-Power is the perfect kayak for anglers who demand the best in stability, tracking, and fishing performance. The Catamaran-style hull provides amazing stability on the water, while the deluxe, adjustable high-back seat system keeps you comfortable all day long. The open bow and stern storage areas give you plenty of room to store your gear, and the dry-storage hatch keeps your belongings safe and dry. The four 16″ accessory rails provide ample space for mounting accessories, and the two flush-mount rod holders keep your rods within easy reach. The adjustable foot braces allow you to customize your fit.
4# Ascend 128X Sit-on-Top Kayak with Yak-Power in Desert Storm
The Ascend 128X Sit-on-Top Kayak with Yak-Power is perfect for those who love to fish. This kayak comes with the Yak-Power system which includes a wiring harness, master controller, and 3 power plugs. The moulded landing is perfect for mounting your fishfinder or other accessories. The adjustable foot braces and non-skid cushioned flooring make this kayak comfortable and safe for all fishers. The deluxe adjustable seating system with a high-back seat provides the ultimate fishing experience. This kayak also comes with 2 midship drink holders, 8 fore, midship, and aft self-draining moulded scupper drains with 8 plugs.
5# Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Fishing Kayak with Trolling Motor
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 motorized fishing kayak is perfect for anyone who wants to get to their favourite fishing spot faster and easier. This top-of-the-line kayak is equipped with a saltwater-ready, GPS-enabled Minn Kota trolling motor that lets you manoeuvre and propel the kayak using the Bluetooth-connected i-Pilot remote. The motor battery is not included, but this high-end fishing machine comes packed with handy convenience features, including customizable accessory trac and Spot-Lock technology from Minn Kota that maintains your position on the water while you reel in the big ones.
6# Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat
Looking for a pontoon boat that can handle all your fishing adventures? Look no further than the Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat. This heavy-duty pontoon boat is built tough, with an abrasion-resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon top, and powder-coated steel tube frame. It’s also equipped with bronze oarlocks, cold and heat-resistant bladders, and rugged 7-foot two-piece aluminium oars. Plus, it has plenty of storage space for all your gear, with 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, and 2 insulated drink holders.
7# Pelican Boat BASS Raider 10E with Motor Mount BBA10P205-00
Introducing the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat – the perfect vessel for your next fishing adventure. This durable and comfortable fishing boat is perfect for both novice anglers and experienced fishermen alike. The Bass Raider 10E is made from our patented RAM-X material, known for its high-impact resistance, meaning this fishing boat will last you for years to come. The boat features two folding seats that can slide along tracks, so you can adjust your position as needed. The seat also swivels 360 degrees, so you can face any direction while fishing or reaching for equipment. The Bass Raider 10E also comes equipped with multiple storage compartments, drink holders, and two vertical rod holders for your convenience.
8# Sea Eagle FishSUP 126 Inflatable FishSUP
The Sea Eagle FishSUP 126 is the perfect inflatable SUP for those who love to fish. This SUP is made from durable 1000 Denier Reinforced Drop Stitch material and features quadruple overlap seams for added strength. It can hold up to 2 people or 500 lbs, making it perfect for fishing trips. The FishSUP also features a motor mount, so you can attach a motor and cruise around the lake or river with ease. Assembly is quick and easy, and the board can be inflated in just 7 minutes. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisherman, the Sea Eagle FishSUP 126 is the perfect choice for your next fishing adventure.
Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor
1# Newport Vessels Kayak 36lb/55lb Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor Indicator
Make your kayaking experience easier and more enjoyable with the Newport Vessels kayak series. This fibreglass shaft paddle comes in variable depth placement, making it easy to control and comfortable to use, while the all-aluminium motorhead is corrosion-resistant for saltwater use. The extra-long battery cables give you plenty of room to place your battery where it’s most comfortable for you, and the eight speeds let you tailor your ride to your own preferences.
2# AQUOS Haswing Bow Mount Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boat Kayak
If you’re looking for a trolling motor that’s built to last and runs quietly, the AQUOS Haswing Black 12V 55LBS 48inch Bow Mount Trolling Motor with Remote Control is just what you need. This trolling motor is perfect for boats weighing up to 2750LBS and has a max boat length of 18ft, making it versatile enough to accommodate a variety of different boats. The variable speed feature on this trolling motor lets you dial in your desired speed, making it more efficient and giving you more precise control. Whether you’re fishing for that big catch or just cruising around the lake, the AQUOS Haswing Black 12V 55LBS 48inch Bow Mount Trolling Motor with Remote Control is a perfect choice!
3# Watersnake T24 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor with Kayak Bracket
Watersnake T24 ASP is the perfect trolling motor for kayaks, canoes, small dinghies, and inflatable boats. It is lightweight and easy to steer with a hand tiller that has an extendable handle. The anti-impact clip system ensures your Watersnake stays in good condition for years to come.
4# Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Universal
The Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount is the perfect accessory for your kayak fishing adventures. Made from marine grade alloy and nylon, it is durable and long-lasting. The universal design means it will fit most kayaks with dual rod holders. Quick and easy to install, the mount is adjustable for different hull widths and can be fitted to any angle or inclination flush rod holder. Whether you are left or right-handed, the Brocraft Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount allows you to operate your trolling motor with ease.
FAQ
Conclusion
Fishing kayaks with trolling motors are becoming more popular as anglers search for the best way to get into those hard-to-reach spots. In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the top-rated fishing kayaks with trolling motors on the market and shared some buyers’ tips to help you choose the right one for your needs. So, whether you’re in the market for a new fishing kayak or just looking to learn more about this growing trend, be sure to read our latest blog post!
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.
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I can attest to the growing popularity of fishing kayaks with trolling motors. These innovative watercraft are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient fishing experience, thanks to their built-in trolling motors. With a trolling motor, anglers can move through the water more easily and cover more ground, which can significantly improve their chances of catching fish.
One of the things I appreciate most about fishing kayaks with trolling motors is their versatility. They are well-suited for a wide range of fishing situations, from small ponds to large lakes and even rivers. Additionally, they are ideal for fishing in areas where larger motorized boats are not permitted or where there are restrictions on their use.
Another feature of these kayaks that I appreciate is their stability. They are designed to be very stable in the water, which makes them a great choice for fishing in areas with choppy water or strong currents. Their low profile also makes them less susceptible to wind and waves than larger boats.
Maneuverability is another key advantage of fishing kayaks with trolling motors. They are smaller and more agile than larger boats, which allows them to easily navigate through tight spaces and around obstacles. This makes them a great option for fishing in areas with lots of structure, such as rocks, logs, and weed beds.
Finally, the quiet operation of fishing kayaks with trolling motors is another significant benefit. Unlike larger boats, which can scare fish away with their loud engines, these kayaks are virtually silent. This allows anglers to get closer to the fish without spooking them, which can increase their chances of making a catch.
I’m writing my review of a fishing kayak that I was able to hunt in. I put all my thoughts in one place. The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Sit-on-Top Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor is a top-of-the-line fishing kayak that offers anglers a wide range of features to enhance their fishing experience. One of the most notable features of this kayak is its Minn Kota trolling motor, which provides smooth and efficient propulsion through the water.
Another great feature of this kayak is its stability. With a 36-inch beam and a pontoon-style hull, this kayak is incredibly stable, which makes it ideal for fishing in choppy water or strong currents. The kayak’s hull is also designed to reduce drag, which makes it easier to move through the water and increases its overall speed.
The kayak also comes equipped with a variety of fishing-specific features, including multiple rod holders, a large storage area, and a tackle management system. Additionally, the kayak has a fully adjustable captain’s chair, which can be raised, lowered, or reclined to suit the angler’s preference.
One of the most innovative features of this kayak is its advanced GPS-enabled AutoPilot system. This system uses GPS to automatically steer the kayak, which allows anglers to focus on fishing rather than paddling or steering. The system can be programmed with up to six custom routes, which makes it easy to navigate to different fishing spots.
Overall, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Sit-on-Top Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor is a top-of-the-line fishing kayak that offers anglers a wide range of features to enhance their fishing experience. With its stability, speed, and advanced AutoPilot system, this kayak is sure to impress even the most discerning anglers.
I can provide you with a commentary on the innovative features of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Sit-on-Top Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor.
This kayak is an absolute game-changer for any angler looking to take their fishing experience to the next level. The incorporation of a no-compromises Minn Kota trolling motor with AutoPilot navigation and Spot-Lock allows for effortless navigation and precision when maneuvering to your favorite fishing spot. The i-Pilot remote makes commanding the kayak incredibly easy, so you can focus on fishing rather than steering.
Another standout feature is the comfortable, adjustable seating system. The removable premium seat has both high and low positioning and great lumbar support, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout your fishing expedition. The nonslip EVA foam deck pads provide essential traction and stand-up comfort for easy fishing, while the four 18″ accessory tracks and two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush-mount rod holders maximize angling options.
The under-seat storage, complete with a custom Old Town tackle box, is a convenient addition that ensures that you have everything you need within reach. The XL rudder design improves boat control in both forward and reverse, and the kill-switch key with a spare prop pin doubles as a prop wrench. Plus, the console floor plug keeps water out when the motor is removed, making maintenance and cleaning a breeze.
As an avid kayaker and angler, I’ve always wondered about the reasoning behind installing a trolling motor on a kayak. I mean, isn’t the whole point of kayaking to paddle and get some exercise while enjoying the serenity of the water? But then again, I can see how having a motor on a kayak would be convenient for certain situations.
For example, if you’re fishing in a big lake or river and need to cover more distance to find the fish, a trolling motor could definitely come in handy. And if you’re someone who struggles with physical limitations or just prefers the ease of a motorized vessel, then a trolling motor on a kayak might be the perfect solution.
However, I can’t help but think about all the negative consequences that come with installing a trolling motor on a kayak. For one, it adds extra weight and can make loading, unloading, and transporting the kayak more difficult. And if you’re in a state where kayaks with no motor don’t require a tag, then adding a trolling motor means having to deal with more legal requirements and potential fines.
Furthermore, using a trolling motor on a kayak takes away from the fun and exercise of paddling, which is a big part of why I love kayaking in the first place. Plus, the vibration and noise created by the motor could ruin a quiet approach to a fishing spot, potentially scaring away any fish in the area.
And let’s not forget about the cost of a larger battery to power the trolling motor, which requires more energy to charge and may not be as convenient to store in the kayak. This could potentially limit the storage space for tackle and equipment, which is one of the big advantages of kayaks designed for fishing.
I personally use a trolling motor on my kayak, depending on the water and my fishing needs. It allows me to troll upstream and then float and fish downstream, covering large lakes with ease without being limited by my stamina, wind direction, or daylight. I have the freedom to go wherever I want and can still paddle around and move into position stealthily.
I understand that some people may prefer not to use a trolling motor and enjoy paddling all day while fishing, but for me, time is precious, and I’d rather spend my time fishing efficiently. The trolling motor saves me time and effort, especially when I need to move across the lake or upstream quickly.
I respect that everyone has their own preference and budget when it comes to kayak fishing. The cost of the kayak or the additional equipment doesn’t matter to me. What’s important is that it gets the job done and allows us to enjoy the activity.
For me, the ease of use and convenience of having a trolling motor outweigh any cons that may come with it, such as the extra weight, noise, or vibration. It allows me to stand on the front deck and set up is just as simple as attaching the seat or putting rods in the holder. Ultimately, it’s all about personal preference and what works best for each individual.
I admit that I used the phrase “epitome of laziness” in my previous comment, and I should have chosen better words. I didn’t intend to come across as hateful toward those who use trolling motors on their kayaks. I appreciate seeing people out on the water, regardless of whether they use a trolling motor or not.
If there are any other advantages to using a trolling motor on a kayak, I would be interested to hear them. My intention is not to start an argument or offend anyone. I apologize if my previous comment was poorly worded and caused offense to anyone.
I own a Pelican Catch Power kayak that I purchased from Bass Pro when they were first released. However, I have some complaints about it. If I could go back in time, I would have chosen the Jonny Bass 100 instead. The plastic on my Pelican kayak is quite thin and it gets deformed on the ladder rack of my truck. Additionally, it’s not as stable as the Jonny kayak.
On paper, everything about the kayak seemed good, but the execution is subpar. Everything is riveted, but loose. The carpet on the kayak has already faded after only six months of use. However, the seat and transom are the only things that are awesome about it.
I have added both a 30lb thrust trolling motor and a 3.5 hp gas motor to my kayak. When I use the gas motor, I keep the battery in for counterweight and use my fish finder. Overall, despite the issues with the kayak, I still enjoy using it and getting out on the water for some fishing.
I quickly realized that the amount of time spent on loading and unloading gear, paddling, and positioning was taking away from my actual fishing time. That’s why I decided to mount a trolling motor on my tandem kayak. Although it now resembles more of a boat, it provides the perfect fishing platform for me.
To power my trolling motor, I have two batteries – one is a regular deep-cycle battery from a big box store, and the other is a higher-end AGM type. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time on the water, I highly recommend investing in an AGM battery as it provides longer mileage and durability.
During a recent four-day ocean trolling trip in Baja, my AGM battery lasted the entire time with the power to spare, making it clear that they are true workhorses compared to heavier batteries.
Mounting the trolling motor was a breeze once I knew where to look for the right equipment. If you’re interested in a great deal on trolling brackets, feel free to send me a private message. It’s a no-brainer when you can cover so much more water than your fellow anglers, allowing you to take your kayak fishing to the next level.
As an avid kayaker and fisherman, I have spent countless hours researching the best trolling motor mounts for kayaks. While some of the options out there are pretty impressive, I just can’t bring myself to drill holes into my own kayak for that purpose. Instead, I have decided to take a simpler approach.
I plan on inserting two steel rods into the rod holders behind my seat and then bracketing a sturdy board to them. From there, I will mount the trolling motor off to the side directly behind me. While my original plan was to have the motor mounted in the middle to avoid any offset weight issues, I have decided to simply counterbalance it once everything is set up. I think this approach will be much easier and less invasive, and I am excited to see how it turns out!
I couldn’t agree more with your thoughts on trolling motors. I started out with a cheap 35lb minn kota, thinking it would be a simple and affordable addition to my kayak setup. However, I quickly realized that the cost of a trolling motor goes far beyond just the initial price tag.
In addition to the motor itself, you need to factor in the cost of steering components, such as cables and rigging. Building a transom mount and other necessary components can add up to over $100 in expenses alone.
Of course, if you don’t need steering right away, you can always lock the motor in line with your kayak and use your paddle to guide you. But even then, you’ll still need to invest in marine wiring and fuses to ensure that your setup is safe and reliable.
Another optional but potentially useful component is a throttle modulator, also known as a PWM. While you can simply set the speed on your motor and use an on/off switch without reverse, a throttle modulator can give you more precise control over your speed.
Finally, there’s the matter of power. The size and type of battery you need will depend on how long you plan to fish and how often you’ll be using the motor at full power. For shorter trips of 3-4 hours, a 30-ah Lithium battery can suffice, but if you’re using your motor more frequently or for longer periods of time, you may want to opt for a deep-cycle lead-acid battery instead.
If you’re looking to add an electric trolling motor to your boat while keeping the total cost under $800, you’ll have to stick with low-end options for both the boat and motor setup. While this can work, it may also create some headaches down the line.
In my experience, the biggest expense for electric trolling motor systems is the battery. Depending on the capacity and quality you’re looking for, batteries can range from $100 – $700 on their own. And on top of that, you’ll still need to purchase a motor and a charging kit.
While you can certainly go for a cheaper battery, keep in mind that it will have a smaller capacity and provide less run time on the water. Additionally, lower-quality batteries may need to be replaced sooner, ultimately costing you more in the long run.
After doing some research, I’ve found that a budget of around $500 – $650 is a more realistic range for purchasing a battery, motor, and necessary accessories for an electric trolling motor setup. Of course, prices can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.