10 Best Trolling Motors 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Recon Freshwater 72” Trolling Motor is a solid choice for anglers looking for powerful and precise control on freshwater boats. Its brushless motor offers excellent thrust and runs quietly on 24V or 36V, which means you get strong, smooth performance without disturbing the water too much. The 72-inch shaft length is good for medium to larger boats, providing plenty of clearance in various water conditions.

One of the standout features is the FreeSteer joystick remote with a color LCD, allowing easy and intuitive steering. Additionally, the wireless foot pedal offers flexible, hands-free control, which is great for multitasking while fishing. The HDI nosecone helps with improved positioning accuracy, thanks to built-in GPS technology, making it easier to hold your boat steady or follow precise routes. The motor weighs about 74 pounds, so it may be a bit heavy for those who want a very lightweight setup or need to frequently remove the motor. The carbon-fiber infused composite materials make it durable yet not overly bulky.

This motor is designed for serious freshwater fishermen who value power, precision, and versatile control options, though it might be more than casual or budget-conscious users require.

The Minn Kota Ulterra Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor is a strong choice for serious freshwater anglers looking for power and advanced controls. Its 80-pound thrust and 24-volt system provide solid propulsion for maneuvering a range of boats efficiently. The 45-inch composite shaft is durable and suitable for various water depths, giving good flexibility for different fishing environments. This motor stands out with its smart features like Auto Stow & Deploy and Power Trim, which let you control the motor easily using a wireless remote, foot pedal, or smartphone app—convenient for staying focused on fishing without constant manual adjustments.

One of the biggest advantages is the built-in Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, which offers clear fish and bottom structure readings without extra equipment clutter. The advanced GPS trolling system with Spot-Lock and Drift Mode helps maintain your position precisely, even in windy or current-heavy waters, which is a big help for staying on productive spots. The digital maximizer extends battery life by adjusting power use efficiently, making it possible to fish longer on a single charge. The bow-mount setup is ideal for anglers who want better boat control and visibility while fishing.

The motor is on the heavier side (over 67 pounds), so installation or removal might require some effort. It’s designed primarily for freshwater, so saltwater users might need to confirm compatibility or take extra care. While the tech features are excellent, they can have a learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with GPS and app integration. Also, at this price point, it’s a significant investment more suited to dedicated anglers who want advanced control and durability. The Minn Kota Ulterra delivers powerful thrust, smart GPS features, and excellent battery management, making it a great option for anglers who value precision and convenience on freshwater fishing trips.

The Garmin Force Kraken Black trolling motor is a top-tier choice for anglers who want strong performance and advanced technology. It delivers a powerful 100 pounds of thrust, which is excellent for moving larger boats or handling tough water conditions. The motor runs on 36 volts, providing ample power for longer trips and challenging environments. With a 63-inch shaft made from sturdy composite material, it resists damage well, making it suitable for freshwater, brackish, and saltwater use.

One standout feature is the anchor lock combined with multi-band GPS and integrated heading sensors, allowing you to keep your boat precisely in place without constant steering. The motor also connects wirelessly to Garmin chartplotters, enabling you to set routes and patterns for automatic movement while fishing, which is a big help if you prefer hands-free control. The pivot-style mount is designed for easy installation, especially if your boat's bow space is limited.

This trolling motor is ideal for serious fishing enthusiasts who want advanced GPS positioning, strong thrust, and wireless control. If you have a medium to large boat and value precise, easy handling with tech integration, the Garmin Force Kraken is a smart pick. However, if you need something simpler or more budget-friendly, you might want to explore less complex models.