Let’s face it. Nothing ruins a day of exhilarating fishing faster than a dead trolling motor battery. After all, fishing gear revolves around performance. So, gear that doesn’t thrive in its designated role needs replacement. A trolling motor battery is no exception.

While finding an excellent product isn’t rocket science, there are a few details to factor in when seeking the best trolling motor battery for your boat. It entails figuring out the battery that will best meet your needs and pair well with your trolling motor. It’s based on your fishing set up. For a multitude of anglers, the main aspect to keep in mind is the motor’s runtime, then finding a battery that provides the goods.

Trolling motors come in handy in a vast assortment of applications, for instance, in fishing kayaks. So, finding the best option will hinge on the desired use. All anglers understand that trolling motors apply to bass boats.

They’re also found on inflatable dinghies. With trolling motors soaring in versatility and popularity, this guide reviews our top picks that will give you value for your money. And a few useful tips to help you figure out the best trolling motor battery for your power needs.

Universal Power Group 12V Battery

Universal Power Group 12V Battery

Are you on the quest for a solid trolling motor that was designed with versatility in mind? Then the Universal Power Group 12V Battery wraps up your search. It’s perfect for a myriad of exhilarating outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and is compatible with RVs. Delivering a remarkable 100Ah, this battery provides sufficient charge power to large and small trolling boats.

As an AGM battery, the Universal Power Group 12V makes maintenance the least of your worries. It’s entirely sealed and won’t demand fluid refills. It also implies that the battery withstands shocks and vibrations without impacting its performance.

So, if you’re accelerating or cruising on choppy water, the battery’s performance won’t take a nosedive. Moreover, leakages will become the least of your concerns.

The Universal Power Group 12V Battery is compact, measuring 12.17” X 6.61” X 9.16” and weighing about 64 pounds. So, it’s mountable in different positions, which is great news for anglers that require optimizing space on their boats. To prolong the battery life by up to 5 years, it’s advisable to discharge it to 50%.

Pros

  • No maintenance required
  • High capacity of 100 Ah
  • Doesn’t need fluid top-ups
  • Versatile
  • Mountable in different positions to save on space
  • Lifespan can be prolonged by up to 5 years

Cons

  • Heavier than other models

VMAX MR96-60 12V AGM Battery 

2. VMAX MR96-60 12V AGM Battery 

Granted, there’s a wealth of options with a 60Ah rating. But none matches up to the lifespan and durability of the VMAX MR96-60 12V AGM trolling motor battery. Featuring military-grade plates, this battery can handle vibrations better than its rivals. Thus, this boosts its efficiency.

With a 60Ah rating, the VMAX MR96-60 can troll motors that fall anywhere between 30 and 50 pounds. Thus, it offers up to 3 hours of runtime on high settings and 6 hours on lower settings. Keep in mind that your motor’s draw will also impact the battery’s runtime. Weighing 45 pounds, this battery is lighter than most of its 100Ah counterparts.

So, if keeping your vessel as light as possible is a priority, then the VMAX MR96-60 is right up your alley. Despite its lightweight nature, the battery provides immense power while maintaining compatibility with most trolling motor sizes.

As an AGM battery, the contents are fully sealed. So, there’s no need to worry about leaks. You can conveniently mount it in different positions. As a more compact battery, the VMAX MR96-60 with dimensions of 9” X 5.5” X 8” is an excellent option for smaller boats. As a deep cycle battery, it can last for up to 6 years if you refrain from entirely discharging it with every use.

Pros

  • Maintenance-free
  • Mountable in various positions
  • Military-grade plates for enhanced performance and longevity
  • Perfect for medium-sized and small trolling motors

Cons

  • Potentially lower with other electronics or high-speed use

DCM0035 Interstate Batteries 12V

DCM0035 Interstate Batteries 12V

If you’re on the quest for a pocket-friendly trolling motor battery, then the DCM0035 is a great option. While this 35Ah battery pairs well with trolling motors of up to 40 pounds, it’s at its optimum with motors that fall anywhere between 18lbs and 30 lbs. With these motors, the DCM0035 can deliver up to 5 hours of runtime, depending on the speed settings.

However, lower speed settings on smaller boats that have fewer power motors are where the DCM0035 shines through. It’s the best trolling motor battery for embarking on solo adventures on kayaks and other similar-sized boats.

Weighing 23.8 pounds and measuring 7.7” X 5.2” X 6.3”, the DCM0035 is one of the most compact and lightweight batteries you can buy. As an AGM battery, it doesn’t demand maintenance and can handle vibrations without reducing the charge. It’s also a 12V deep cycle battery that will provide up to 4 years of excellent use without any issues cropping up.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Ideal for smaller boats such as kayaks
  • Pocket-friendly
  • Lasts up to 4 years with no issues
  • Doesn’t need maintenance
  • Completely sealed

Cons

  • Lack of threaded posts for a quick and easy setup
  • Unsuitable for larger boats

Mighty Max 12V 100Ah Battery

Mighty Max 12V 100Ah Battery

If you’re shopping around for a powerful trolling motor battery, then the Mighty Max 12V 100Ah is your Holy Grail. It provides sufficient power for any type of excursion out on the water. Remember, while your motor’s power impacts the duration it lasts.

So, if you’re using the trolling motor at low-speed settings, for instance, then the battery can take you up to 12 hours before a recharge is needed. But this works with motors different power, ranging from 60 lbs, 30 lbs, 50 lbs, or 40lbs of thrust. Upon adjusting it to medium power, you’ll get an impressive 7 hours. But, on the highest speed settings, you’ll net up to 2.5 hours of charge.

While this Mighty Max battery can do it all and then some, it’s vital to keep a few things in mind. For starters, it weighs about 64 pounds, which means it adds a significant amount of weight to your boat. Secondly, it’s bulky, with dimensions of 12.17” X 6.61” X 8.30.” So, without sufficient room on your boat, this battery may not be a great fit.

As an AGM, the Mighty Max 12V battery is sealed, thus elevating performance and durability while guaranteeing no loss of charge or leakages from vibrations. And, no fluid refills are needed, which ensures the longevity of up to 4 years.

Pros

  • Mountable in any position
  • Long service life
  • No maintenance required
  • Functions seamlessly under different temperatures
  • Perfect for larger trolling motors
  • Ensures no leakages or loss of charge from vibrations
  • Affordable
  • Functions for up to 12 hours on the lowest speed settings

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
  • Not suitable for smaller trolling motors

8016-103 D34M Optima Batteries

8016-103 D34M Optima Batteries

Granted, it’s not the largest trolling motor battery on the market. But, the 8016-103 D34M offers a multitude of features that set it apart from the pack. As a 55Ah and 12V AGM and deep cycle battery, it outperforms most of its rivals with the same specs. For starters, it incorporates Spiral Cell technology.

So, it has spiral lead plates for superior efficiency and unmatched durability. Compared to flat plates, the spiral counterparts deliver up to 15X greater resistance to vibrations. So, the 8016-103 D34M lasts longer while outperforming other 12V 55 Ah batteries, thus giving you great value for your money.

Secondly, it can deliver 750 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), which means you can power up the motor even in the harsh winters. Thirdly, the 8016-103 D34M boasts an impressive charging rate. Courtesy of the low internal resistance, this trolling motor battery has the uncanny ability to recharge up to 90% in less than 1 hour.

So, this means less waiting time and more time on the water with this trolling battery. As an AGM battery, it has unmatched durability and is mountable in different positions without the likelihood of leakages. Weighing 43.5 pounds and measuring 10” X 6.75” X 7.8”, the 8016-103 D34M is more compact and lightweight than a plethora of similarly-sized motor batteries. And it’s ideal for medium and small-sized boats.

Pros

  • Supports fast-charging
  • Perfect for deep cycle and starting applications
  • Mountable in any position
  • Can be used in low temperatures
  • 100% maintenance-free
  • Low internal resistance
  • No leakages
  • Long-lasting
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons

  • Pricier than other similarly-sized models

Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery

Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery

It’s the best trolling motor battery if you’re on the quest for a product that was designed with affordability in mind and is perfect for small to medium-sized boats. By delivering unmatched versatility, the Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery pairs well with 30-50lb thrust motors.

For instance, using it on a 30-pound motor provides a maximum of 4 hours of power at higher speed settings. So, if you take things down by a few notches, it’s a no-brainer that you’ll prolong the battery life to give up to 8 hours based on the water conditions and motor draw.

Even so, you can expect a decent remaining amount of charge because the battery will struggle to entirely discharge unless it’s in use all day at higher speeds. While this product generates more power than the smaller 35 Ah counterparts, it’s pleasantly compact and lightweight.

The Mighty Max Battery 12V 55Ah Deep Cycle Battery weighs 38.5 pounds, which makes it the go-to option for medium and small boats. Granted, as an AMG battery implies that it can be installed in almost any position with no concerns of leaking. It indicates that the performance won’t diminish from frequent vibrations and no maintenance is required.

Pros

  • Reliable and durable in most conditions
  • Budget-friendly
  • Excellent tolerance to varying temperatures
  • Suitable for medium and small boats
  • Can give up to 8 hours of power on lower speed settings
  • Spill-resistant design

Cons

  • No screw-down type of battery posts

Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST

Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST

Delivering a maximum of 400 cycles at 80% depth of discharge, the Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST has unmatched, deep cycling capability, and starting power. With thrice the life and overall power of the conventional counterparts, this marine battery is perfect for powering various onboard electronics, trolling, and RVs.

Regarding marine battery marine replacement, users are typically faced with two options: deep cycle or starting. Typically, here’s where a compromise comes into play because a myriad of boaters prefers marine batteries that provide unmatched starting power as need be and can withstand frequent and high discharge depths without notable power loss. However, they’re down on their luck because no trolling battery could provide the best of both worlds until the Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST penetrated the market.

The impressive Cold Cranking Amp of 880 and deep cycling capacity make it an extraordinary battery pack. Its design is made up of pure virgin lead plates for optimized recycling and increased surface area, excellent conductivity, and an AGM construction that gets rid of acid spills.

Moreover, the cranking battery has corrosion-resistant tin-coated brass terminals, a self-regulating relief valve, high-integrity terminals seal, tough flame retardant cell containers, sealed design for internally recycling gasses, and strong internal cell connections to curb damage from vibrations.

The Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST packs 15% greater surface area into its case compared to other Spiral Cell batteries of the same size. By steering clear of the dead space between cylinders in 6-pack options, the Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST provides 40% greater power and reserve capacity.

Pros

  • 4-year limited replacement warranty
  • Maintenance-free design
  • Lasts up to 10 years
  • Designed 100% pure lead plates for superior performance and power
  • Can be stored for up to 2 years
  • Dual-purpose trolling motor battery

Cons

  • Pricier than other deep-cycle batteries

VMAX MR127 12V Deep Cycle Battery

VMAX MR127 12V Deep Cycle Battery

With an extraordinary chemical and heavy physical structure (weighs 68lbs), the VMAX MR127 stands out from the rest. The unique manufacturing process and special treatment that this deep cycle trolling motor battery pack has undergone guarantees exceptional reliability, unmatched performance, and strength.

The uniquely-designed Absorbed Glass Matt (AGM) layered between the VMAX plates gives this battery added electrical and physical perks. In turn, this makes it better than the Wet Lead Acid batteries. Moreover, the AGM optimizes the MR127’s resistance to vibrations and shocks.

It fully absorbs the electrolyte and is regarded as non-hazardous and spill-proof. A sturdy Tank encloses and protects the close-knit plates that deliver the VMAX MR127 is maintenance-free. While the Tanks are known for their longevity, their uncanny ability to recover after redundant deep discharges makes them a great option for various applications.

Pros

  • Extended runtimes for anglers seeking to optimize their time on the water
  • Mountable in any position to save on space
  • Designed with heavy-duty lead alloy grids for long service life, power, and durability
  • Ideal for high and medium thrust trolling motors

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Heavy

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Trolling Motor Battery

It’s no secret that we all have varying preferences and needs when it comes to trolling motor batteries. Ranging from your fishing frequency and budget to the size of your vessel, there’s a wealth of factors that will determine the best fit for you. With that being said, we’ve rounded up a few buying tips to make the process of selecting the best trolling motor battery a breeze.

Voltage

Granted, most of the trolling motor batteries you’ll stumble upon are 12V. So, they’ll power on-board electronics and motors of the same voltage. But, if the motor is 24V, for instance, then you’ll need a couple of 12V batteries to guarantee sufficient power. You’ll typically have a 12V motor unless it’s high-end. So, most trolling motor batteries will pair well with your vessel.

Durability

It’s a no-brainer that durable batteries last longer. So, keep your eyes peeled for features that accentuate a battery’s durability. For instance, AGM batteries are fully sealed within their casing. In turn, this diminishes their susceptibility to leakages, damage, and problems stemming from shock or vibrations.

But, AGM batteries are pricier than the wet cell counterparts. Ultimately increased durability comes at a cost. However, shelling out extra bucks means a longer-lasting battery that ends up paying for itself years down the road.

Maintenance

Wet cell batteries demand a level of maintenance from time to time. It entails refilling them with filtered water, then looking out for signs of corrosion and cleaning as required. With the perfect ‘cocktail’ of baking soda and water, getting rid of corrosion is a breeze. Granted, this is more of a hassle than the battery’s worth.

But remember, wet cell batteries are pleasantly affordable. So, the need for minor maintenance may be worth it for those angling to save extra bucks. Contrarily, lithium-ion, and AGM batteries don’t need any form of maintenance.

Therefore, inspecting the battery’s water levels or interior for signs of damage is the least of your worries. While they’re pricier than the wet cell counterparts, they’re 100% maintenance-free.

Weight

Along with the size, the weight of the trolling motor battery affects its overall performance. So, ensure it’s not overly heavy for your vessel. Upon reaching your boat’s weight capacity, the battery will drain notably faster.

Therefore, opt for a lighter battery if you’re getting to the maximum capacity. Fortunately, a myriad of anglers doesn’t have much weight on-board, which means a heavier battery isn’t an issue. Typically, batteries weigh anywhere between 25lbs and 30lbs. Anything less than 30lbs is suitable for kayak users.

Keep in mind, if you’re using a smaller vessel, ensure the battery isn’t too bulky; otherwise, it could negatively impact its efficiency. If you have a high weight capacity on-board, then a heavier battery for enhanced performance is a better fit.

Moreover, if you require transporting the battery to and from the vessel with every use, then a more compact and lightweight option is better. But, if it’s permanently installed on the vessel, then the weight is a nonfactor because you don’t need to carry it around.

Lifespan

It varies greatly from one trolling motor battery to another. For instance, a wet cell battery has the shortest lifespan of up to 2 years with optimal maintenance. Contrarily, AGM batteries have a longer lifespan that stretches up to 5 to 6 years based on the quality. And the newer lithium-ion counterparts take the cake with up to a decade. Keep in mind that a longer lifespan comes at a steeper price.

Size

Always factor in a battery’s size before hastily purchasing it to confirm that it’s a great match with your vessel. For instance, is your boat roomy enough for bigger batteries? If it lacks the luxury of space, then ensure you select a compact trolling motor battery that can comfortably fit on-board.

If you have a larger boat, then a bigger battery will be perfect. A heavier vessel means more power is being drained per hour. Therefore, a larger battery is more ideal for bigger watercraft. You have free rein to go bigger with your trolling motor battery if there’s enough room.

It guarantees there’s a sufficient chance to consistently power the motor for extended periods. In turn, you can revel in your onboard adventures without worrying about the battery giving out after 1 or 2 hours.

Recharging

Think about how frequent you require recharging your battery. If you frequently use your trolling motor, then a fast-charging feature is a necessity as it ushers in more adventures and reduced waiting time. So, AGM batteries are your best bet. They charge up to 90% in under an hour, thus adding a layer of convenience.

Bottom Line

No one likes having to wrap up their onboard excursions as a result of a dead trolling motor battery. Fortunately, in today’s technological era, these batteries are better than ever, offering enhanced performance, little to no maintenance, and much more. So, order yours today!