3 Best Batteries for Pontoon Boat Trolling Motors

Hey there my fellow boating enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best batteries for pontoon boat trolling motors to keep them running this year.  Trust me, there is nothing more frustrating than a dead trolling motor battery. We could not only miss valuable time but even rare opportunities to land a prized catch.

Hence, such a fact necessitates us to purchase reliable batteries.  However as usual there is a lot to choose from here so to help you out I have had a good look around and come up with three decent options below.

Let’s check them out…

I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience: 

05/11/2023 11:04 am GMT

In simple terms, a trolling motor battery is about the same as any other 12V battery that is used in a caravan, car, kayak or portable power arrangement used by campers. The difference with these however is that we need to consider a number of factors such as:

• Size – they need to be fit inside a vessel
• Weight – they need to be light enough for smaller inflatable pontoon boats
• Storage position – some batteries do not like being tipped over
• Suitability – they should be ‘marine grade’ meaning they can handle salt water elements a bit more – but not submersed.

Check out these: Trolling motor batter chargers

The following factors should be considered as you look for a good battery for your pontoon boat trolling motor.

1. Battery type
2. Battery capacity
3. Durability
4. Size and weight
5. Maintenance
6. Additions

Battery type

For many years, two types of deep-cycle 12-volt batteries were recommended for use with trolling motors: flooded lead acid wet-cell batteries and AGM batteries.  These are termed “deep-cycle” which describes batteries designed to discharge smaller amounts of current over a more extended period and to be recharged more frequently.  And more recently,  Lithium-ion batteries which work much the same as a smart phone battery have also become more popular. 

The three different types are outlined below:

1. Flooded lead acid battery: This type of battery can withstand the frequent draining and recharging associated with trolling motor use. The lead acid battery is also an affordable option and will last 2-3 years, depending on quality. Some lead acid batteries however have the disadvantage of requiring periodic maintenance (such as topping off the water) and being prone to vibration and spillage.
2. AGM battery: AGM batteries (Absorbed Glass Mat) are a type of lead acid battery with a completely sealed design. They typically last longer on a charge and have a longer lifespan. A traditional deep-cycle battery may last 2-3 years, whereas an AGM deep-cycle battery may last three or four years.  These are the most common option for trolling motor batteries at a good price.
3. Lithium-ion battery: These are a newer technology on the market and work in the same fashion as your mobile/cell phone battery. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than the others but are also generally smaller and lighter. They will handle being charged and discharged a lot better and have a much longer cycle life (number of times charged and recharged) as well.  As with your cell phone (or laptop) however, they can overheat if you work the trolling motor for a lengthy period of time.

Battery capacity

This factor is measured in Amp Hours (Ah) and represents the battery’s ability to provide current under certain conditions. It is the rating that tells customers how much amperage a battery can provide in one hour. In other words, the Amp-Hour rating indicates how long the battery can keep a charge while performing its function.

For example, a 100 amp-hour battery powering a trolling motor drawing 20 amps will last for 5 hours if continuously running (100 amp-hour battery / 20 amps drawn = 5 hours of run time).

For a pontoon boat, look for a deep cycle marine battery with at least a 100-Ah rating, usually a Group 27 or higher, for the best results. If an amp hour rating is unavailable, I recommend purchasing a deep cycle battery with a minimum reserve capacity of 180 minutes.

Durability

It goes without saying that long-lasting batteries are more reliable so keep an eye out for features that improve a battery’s durability.  AGM and lithium batteries for example should be completely sealed within their casing making them less vulnerable to leaks, damage and problems caused by shock or vibrations.

Size and weight

Always consider the size of a battery before purchasing it to ensure it will fit your vessel. For example, if your boat lacks the luxury of space, choose a compact trolling motor battery that will fit comfortably on-board.  Additionally, the weight of the trolling motor battery can also influence its overall performance it’s too heavy for your vessel. The battery will drain significantly faster when you reach your boat’s weight capacity.

This is particularly important should you be running a 24 or 36v motor as this means you will need 2 or 3 batteries.  If this is the case, the lighter the batteries are, the better.

Maintenance

AGM batteries are so well-designed and built that you can position them without fear of leakage. These batteries are made with a hard shell plastic that keeps the inside of the battery vibration-free. Another advantage of AGM batteries is that they are identified as maintenance-free.

However, purchasing traditional lead acid batteries is a good option if you want to save money. Then, you should obtain all the information regarding these batteries’ maintenance process from the dealer.

Additions

Other potential additions include:

1. Refund policy: Products with this policy ensure that their customers receive brand-new items from their dealers. This extra feature is definitely worthy of being considered.
2. Warranty: Another essential feature that protects the consumers’ right to buy properly-made items. In purchasing batteries for trolling motors, always look for warranties.
3. Copper core cables: These items help connect your battery to your preferred trolling motor.

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. 12V 55Ah Power Boat Pontoon Electric Trolling Motor Deep Cycle Battery

If you are on the hunt for trolling motor that fits into small to medium-sized boats, then my first recommended product is for you. It has unique versatility for a wide range of trolling motors and fully sealed for maintenance free use. See its specifications below:

• Brand: Mighty Max
• Battery type: AGM battery
• Voltage: 12V
• Amperage: 55 AH
• Dimensions: 9.06 in x 5.43 in x 8.98 in
• Weight: 38.6 pounds

Other inclusions:

• 30-day refund policy
• 1-year warranty

Why have I chosen it?

The battery pairs well with 30-50lb thrust motors thanks to its unrivaled versatility and weighs 38.6 pounds, making it an excellent choice for medium and small boats.  This AGM battery can be installed almost anywhere without fear of leaking with a high discharge rate and the ability to work well in a wide range of temperatures.  use this for 12V motors on smaller vessels.

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2. VMAX MR127 12 Volt 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Maintenance Free Battery 

My second battery option is ideal for spending a long time on the water while maintaining low speeds. It has enough power to keep you going at full speed for hours with a design that prevents leaks and handles wet conditions. See its specifications below:

• Brand: Vmax
• Battery type: AGM battery
• Voltage: 12V
• Amperage: 100 AH
• Dimensions: 12.1″L x 6.7″W x 8.2″H
• Weight: 67 Pounds

Other inclusions:

• Fits any Group 27 Battery Box
• Fits the MinnKota Trolling Motor Power Center
• 30-day refund policy
• 1-year warranty

Why have I chosen it?

This battery is constructed with AGM technology meaning that the product performs better, charges faster and has longer battery life. It is rated as a marine battery for extra protection and can run a motor size or 50 – 65lb making it perfect for larger boats or banking. This trolling motor battery has enough power to keep a boat running at full speed for four hours and at low to medium speeds, 6 – 10 hours of operation time is possible.

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3. LOSSIGY LiFePO4 Battery, 12V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

My last option is another marine grade battery offering great performance owing to its excellent construction and extra-long service life. Compared with its counterparts, the battery provides higher energy density and impressive versatility. See its specifications below:

• Brand: Lossigy
• Battery type: Lithium ion battery
• Voltage: 12V
• Amperage: 200 AH
• Dimensions: 19.05 x 6.69 x 9.45 inches
• Weight: 47.4 Pounds

Other inclusions:

• Provides at least 4000 charge discharge cycles
• Positive and negative copper cables
• 5-year warranty

Why have I chosen it?

This battery comes with a built-in BMS system designed for safety purposes and is applicable for series or parallel circuits and will not overheat or explode under high temperatures.  You can use this product for 20 hours due to its incredible 200 AH and can be installed safely in any position. Its 5-year warranty indicates that the battery is of high quality.  Use this options for long lasting requirements – especially if banking.

05/11/2023 11:04 am GMT

There you have it, my three best batteries to power up your trolling motors. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul