We’ve all been there – trying to find the perfect trolling motor for our Jon boat can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, how do we choose what’s best for our specific needs? Thrust capacity, battery life, and saltwater compatibility are just a few factors that make a big difference on the water. Let’s look at five excellent trolling motors that could transform your fishing experience and help you navigate with confidence.
Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor (30 Lb. Thrust)
- Telescoping Tiller: This 6-inch telescoping tiller provides easy, comfortable, and intuitive control of your trolling motor for all-day fishing trips; Push-to-test battery meter integrated with motor head
- 10-Position Lever Lock Bracket: Easy-release lever lock system lets you quickly adjust and secure your trolling motor angle; Reinforced composite construction resists flexing, warping, and UV damage for long-lasting durability in marine environments
- Power Prop for Heavy Vegetation: Designed for 3-1/4" motor diameters, this high-performance propeller delivers extra thrust to power through thick cover; Includes prop pin, nut, and washer for complete installation
- Forward & Reverse Speed Settings: Dial in precise speed control with five forward speeds and three reverse speeds; Versatile settings let you adapt to any fishing condition, from slow trolling presentations to quick repositioning on the water
- Built to Last: Designed with an indestructible composite shaft at the motor's core to ensure reliable performance season after season
If you’re a jon boat owner looking for reliability without breaking the bank, the Minn Kota Endura C2 might be your perfect match. With 30 pounds of thrust and a 30-inch shaft, it’s ideal for smaller watercraft.
We love the user-friendly features like the telescoping tiller with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds. The lever-lock bracket makes mounting a breeze, while the indestructible composite shaft comes with a lifetime guarantee. Battery life is impressive too—up to 2 hours at middle settings with a 50Ah battery.
Customers rate it 4.5/5 stars for its quiet operation and intuitive controls. It’s powerful enough for jon boats yet compact for easy storage.
Best For: Small watercraft owners seeking a reliable, affordable trolling motor with sufficient power for freshwater fishing in jon boats, kayaks, canoes, and inflatable boats.
Pros:
- Versatile 5 forward/3 reverse speed settings with easy-to-use telescoping tiller provide excellent control on the water
- Durable construction featuring an indestructible composite shaft with lifetime guarantee and power prop designed for heavy vegetation
- Quiet operation with impressive battery efficiency, running up to 2 hours on middle settings with a 50Ah battery
Cons:
- 30 lb. thrust may be insufficient for larger boats or challenging water conditions
- 17 pound weight might be cumbersome for solo kayakers or canoeists to transport and mount
- Limited to freshwater use only, not suitable for saltwater environments
HASWING Electric Trolling Motor 24V 110LBS for Boats
- QUIET ELECTRIC MOTOR - Our Protruar G 3.0 Brushless 24V Trolling Motor system is designed and engineered to run efficiently than ever before. It is so quiet that the fish will never hear you coming. There are variable speed functions that let you dial in your desired speed to provide more precise and smooth adjustments, as well as improve control of the motor. Rest easy and spend more time catching and less time chasing the fish with Protruar G 3.0, a trolling motor with all the power you need!
- SPEED CONTROL – Featuring digital technology built into this motor system that provides a stepless forward movement and reverse speed control, all from the handle. No more protruding foot pedals with Protruar’s advanced stepless speed controller that you can access easily with your hands. With a smart user interface like this, it will make fishing trips super easy and more convenient.
- FOLDING & TILTING - The Protruar has a trolling handle with the folding functions that can fold at angles of 0-100 degrees. It also offers 7 levels of motor tilting positions. These full motor pilot control features enable you with a lot of flexibility to regulate speed, propulsion, and steering so you can fish and boat around from any position, especially when dealing with winds, waves, and currents.
- BRUSHLESS MOTOR - This trolling motor system comes with various features, including a brushless motor, kill switch, battery meter, stepless speed control, foldable handle, bracket, durable motor, and anti-impact propeller. Right on top is a power display that shows you 5 levels of battery power. It’s placed conveniently and easily readable to see the status of the deep cycle battery. There is also a prop-clutch ability that breaks away running prop when it is blocked to prevent prop damage.
- EMERGENCY PROTECTION - For your ultimate safety, there is a Kill Switch that is included with this trolling system. During usage of the electric trolling motor, you can simply activate the kill switch on the handle, and it will stop the trolling motor immediately to prevent damage in case of any emergency. Reliable and quick, you can enjoy your fishing trips without any worry with this emergency stop feature. Elevate your experience with cast aluminum shaft bow mount trolling motor.
The HASWING Electric Trolling Motor delivers serious power for serious anglers who need reliable performance on their jon boats. With 110 pounds of thrust from its 24V system, it’s an impressive option for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
We love the Protruar G 3.0 brushless motor system that runs quietly while providing efficient power. The stepless speed control gives you precise handling in varying conditions, while the 7-level tilting positions let you adjust to different water depths. There’s even a kill switch for emergencies and a battery meter to monitor power levels.
For jon boat owners wanting durability and control, this cast aluminum HASWING model offers exceptional value.
Best For: Serious anglers with jon boats who need powerful, quiet performance in both freshwater and saltwater conditions with precise control and reliable operation.
Pros:
- Features a highly efficient Protruar G 3.0 brushless motor system that operates quietly while delivering 110 pounds of thrust
- Offers versatile adjustability with stepless speed control and 7 different tilting positions to adapt to various water conditions
- Includes important safety features like an emergency kill switch, battery meter, and anti-impact propeller design
Cons:
- Requires a 24-volt battery system which adds weight and expense compared to 12V alternatives
- Cast aluminum construction, while durable, contributes to a heavier overall unit
- Higher price point than basic trolling motors with fewer features and less thrust
HASWING Electric Trolling Motor for Boats (12V/24V)
- ELECTRIC MOTOR - Our Protruar Transom 12V 1HP Trolling Motor system is designed and engineered to run efficiently than ever before. It is so quiet that the fish will never hear you coming. There are variable speed functions that let you dial in your desired speed to provide more precise and smooth adjustments, as well as improve control of the motor. Rest easy and spend more time catching and less time chasing the fish with Protruar Transom, a trolling motor with all the power you need!
- SPEED CONTROL – Featuring digital technology built into this motor system that provides a stepless forward movement and reverse speed control, all from the handle. No more protruding foot pedals with Protruar’s advanced stepless speed controller that you can access easily with your hands. With a smart user interface like this, it will make fishing trips super easy and more convenient.
- FOLDING & TILTING - The Protruar has a trolling handle with the folding functions that can fold at an angle of 180 degrees and an expanding handle extension with 400mm length. It also offers 10 or 7 levels of motor tilting positions. These full motor pilot control features enable you with a lot of flexibility to regulate speed, propulsion, and steering so you can fish and boat around from any position, especially when dealing with winds, waves, and currents.
- BRUSHLESS MOTOR - This trolling motor system comes with various features, including a brushless motor, kill switch, battery meter, stepless speed control, foldable handle, bracket, durable motor, and anti-impact propeller. Right on top is a power display that shows you 3 levels of battery power. It’s placed conveniently and easily readable to see the status of the deep cycle battery. There is also a prop-clutch ability that breaks away running prop when it is blocked to prevent prop damage.
Jon boat owners seeking reliable performance and flexible control should consider HASWING’s Electric Trolling Motor. We’re impressed with its 1HP brushless design that runs quietly while delivering efficient power in both fresh and saltwater environments.
What we love most is the versatility—you’ll get stepless speed control through the folding handle, plus 7-10 tilting positions to adapt to different water conditions. The built-in battery meter and kill switch add convenience and safety. With its durable aluminum construction and anti-impact propeller, this motor offers reliable performance for your fishing trips. It’s been well-received too, earning 4.2 stars from users since its 2021 release.
Best For: Jon boat owners seeking a quiet, efficient trolling motor with versatile speed control and multiple tilt positions for both freshwater and saltwater fishing adventures.
Pros:
- Brushless motor provides quiet operation with 1HP power output and stepless speed control for precise adjustments
- Versatile design with 7-10 tilting positions and a folding handle that extends 400mm with 180-degree angle adjustment
- Durable construction with anti-impact propeller and prop-clutch to prevent damage in various water conditions
Cons:
- Limited customer feedback with only 17 ratings since its 2021 release
- Not specified whether the motor includes a dedicated battery or if it must be purchased separately
- Ranks relatively low (#745) in the Trolling Boat Motors category, suggesting it may not be as popular as competing options
Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator
- Efficient Power: 86Lb Thrust - This 24V Electric Trolling Motor Provides Excellent Power And Efficiency For Any Boater. The High Quality Build Allows The Motor To Run All Day Long Without Overheating, Or Making Noise To Spook Fish.
- Features: This Motor Features A 36 Inch Shaft, A 5 Led Battery Meter, A 6 Inch Telescoping Tiller Handle, And 3 Blade Propeller. The Mount Angle, Height, And Direction Can All Be Adjusted And Locked Into Place When Needed.
- Speed: 8 Speeds, 5 Forward & 3 Reverse. Motor Is Designed For Trolling, So The Top Speed Is About 4Mph, Exact Speed Depends On Your Boat Shape, Weight, Water, Wind, Etc. Our 3 Blade Propeller Gives The Motor Great Low End Torque To Get The Boat Moving.
- Battery: 86Lb Motor Requires Two (2) 12V Lead-Acid Deep Cycle Battery (Not Included), 50Ah Recommended. Motor Includes 50Amp Circuit Breaker Which Is Recommended At All Times To Protect From Battery Voltage Surges. Max Amp Draw: 48A
Powerful thrust meets intelligent design in the Newport NV-Series Saltwater Trolling Motor, making it an excellent option for Jon boat owners who need reliable performance in saltwater environments. With 86 pounds of thrust and a 24V system, this motor delivers enough power to move your Jon boat efficiently all day long.
We love the intuitive 5-LED battery meter that helps you monitor power levels, though some users note it’s not always 100% accurate. The eight-speed system (five forward, three reverse) gives you plenty of control options, and the composite construction keeps the motor lightweight at just 25 pounds. While it can vibrate at top speeds, its overall performance compares favorably to pricier brands like Minn Kota.
Best For: Jon boat owners seeking a powerful saltwater trolling motor with good battery life and speed control at a more affordable price point than premium brands.
Pros:
- Powerful 86lb thrust with 8-speed control system provides excellent maneuverability and enough power for most fishing conditions
- Durable saltwater-rated construction with composite materials keeps the weight manageable at 25 pounds
- Includes helpful features like LED battery indicator, telescoping handle, and circuit breaker protection
Cons:
- Battery indicator may not always provide accurate readings according to user feedback
- Some vibration reported when operating at maximum speed
- First gear starts at approximately 2.5mph, which may be too aggressive for slow trolling in certain fishing scenarios
Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor (30 lb Thrust)
- Telescoping Tiller: This 6-inch telescoping tiller provides easy, comfortable, and intuitive control of your trolling motor for all-day fishing trips; Push-to-test battery meter integrated with motor head
- 10-Position Lever Lock Bracket: Easy-release lever lock system lets you quickly adjust and secure your trolling motor angle; Reinforced composite construction resists flexing, warping, and UV damage for long-lasting durability in marine environments
- Power Prop for Heavy Vegetation: Designed for 3-1/4" motor diameters, this high-performance propeller delivers extra thrust to power through thick cover; Includes prop pin, nut, and washer for complete installation
- Forward & Reverse Speed Settings: Dial in precise speed control with five forward speeds and three reverse speeds; Versatile settings let you adapt to any fishing condition, from slow trolling presentations to quick repositioning on the water
- Built to Last: Designed with an indestructible composite shaft at the motor's core to ensure reliable performance season after season
When it comes to affordable power for small watercraft, we’ve found the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with 30 lb thrust to be a standout choice for jon boat owners on a budget.
The Endura C2 offers impressive versatility with its 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds, plus a telescoping 6-inch tiller for comfortable operation. We love its durability features, including the indestructible composite shaft that’s guaranteed for life. At just under 17 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for easy handling while still providing sufficient power for small jon boats. With the convenient battery meter, you’ll never be caught by surprise on the water.
Best For: Budget-conscious anglers and small watercraft owners seeking a reliable electric trolling motor for freshwater fishing on jon boats, kayaks, canoes, and inflatable boats.
Pros:
- Long battery life with up to 2 hours at medium speed settings, and features a convenient Push-to-Test Battery Meter to monitor power levels
- Durable construction with an indestructible composite shaft that comes with a lifetime guarantee and a Power Prop designed to handle heavy vegetation
- Versatile operation with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds plus a 10-position quick-release bracket for easy adjustments
Cons:
- Limited to freshwater use only, making it unsuitable for saltwater fishing environments
- At 30 lb thrust, may lack sufficient power for larger boats or use in strong currents and windy conditions
- Some users might need to upgrade to the 55 lb thrust model for better performance with heavier watercraft
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trolling Motor for a Jon Boat
Now that we’ve looked at a popular motor option, let’s explore what factors matter when picking the right trolling motor for your jon boat. We’ll need to evaluate thrust power requirements, shaft length, mounting options, battery voltage, and whether you’ll be in saltwater or freshwater. These considerations will help us match your specific jon boat setup with the perfect trolling motor for your fishing needs.
Thrust Power Requirements
The right amount of thrust power serves as the backbone of your Jon boat’s performance on the water. We recommend following the 2-pound-per-100-pounds rule as your starting point when selecting a motor. This means if your boat, gear, and passengers total 600 pounds, you’ll need at least 12 pounds of thrust in calm conditions.
For most Jon boats up to 14 feet, 30-40 pounds of thrust works well for casual fishing trips. However, if you’re facing wind or currents, add another 10-20 pounds of thrust per 100 pounds of boat weight. Larger boats over 1,000 pounds typically require 40-80 pounds of thrust for effective trolling.
Shaft Length Selection
Having established the right thrust power for your Jon boat, let’s focus on selecting the correct shaft length for your trolling motor.
The ideal shaft length depends on your boat’s transom height plus an extra 20 inches to keep the propeller fully underwater. This guarantees your motor maintains proper efficiency when you’re out on the lake. To measure correctly, check from your mounting bracket to the waterline, then add 20-25 inches for ideal performance.
Most trolling motor shafts range from 30 to 60 inches. If you’re planning to navigate deeper waters or choppier conditions, you’ll want a longer shaft to prevent the motor from popping out of the water. Remember, an incorrectly sized shaft can drain your battery faster and reduce your speed—issues we’d all rather avoid on a fishing trip!
Mounting System Options
While selecting the right thrust power and shaft length remain crucial, choosing an appropriate mounting system for your Jon boat can greatly impact your overall fishing experience.
We typically recommend transom mounts for most Jon boat owners. They’re easy to install on the back of your boat and let you adjust the motor position for changing water conditions. If you fish in windy areas or strong currents, you might prefer a bow mount on the front, which gives you better steering control and stability.
Look for mounts with adjustable angles and heights to match your specific Jon boat size. We’re also big fans of quick-release brackets that allow you to remove the motor easily when not in use. Many newer mounting systems use composite materials that resist corrosion and keep the weight down—a bonus for smaller Jon boats.
Battery Voltage Considerations
When selecting a trolling motor for your Jon boat, battery voltage might be the most crucial decision you’ll make. We typically see two main options: 12V and 24V systems.
A 12V setup requires just one battery, making it lighter and simpler for smaller Jon boats. This can be perfect if you’re fishing calm waters for shorter trips. However, if you need more power, a 24V system delivers up to 110 pounds of thrust compared to the 55 pounds from a 12V motor.
Remember that voltage affects your runtime too. A 24V system typically runs longer at higher speeds because it draws less current. It’ll also perform better against wind and currents. Just make sure your motor and battery voltages match – using a 24V motor with a 12V battery will give you only half the intended thrust.
Saltwater Vs Freshwater
Beyond battery voltage, the environment where you’ll use your trolling motor plays a major role in your selection process. We can’t stress enough how important it is to choose the right motor for your fishing waters.
If you’re heading into saltwater with your Jon boat, you’ll need a motor specifically designed to handle corrosion. These models have special coatings and sealed components that protect against salt damage and the increased electrical conductivity of seawater. They’ll cost more, but they’ll last much longer in harsh conditions.
Freshwater motors, on the other hand, are typically lighter and less expensive because they don’t need the same protective features. They’re perfect for lakes and rivers where corrosion isn’t a major concern. Remember, using a freshwater motor in saltwater will greatly shorten its lifespan.
Speed Control Mechanisms
The speed control mechanism of your trolling motor can make or break your fishing experience on a Jon boat. We’ve found that having multiple speed options gives you the flexibility needed to adapt to changing water conditions. Many quality motors offer five forward and three reverse speeds, which is usually sufficient for most situations.
For the smoothest operation, we recommend looking for models with stepless speed control. These give you infinite adjustments between minimum and maximum speeds, rather than just preset levels. Digital control systems are also worth considering as they integrate forward and reverse operations through a responsive handle.