10 Best Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boat

Picture yourself gliding silently across a glassy lake, powered by nothing but a whisper-quiet motor on your inflatable boat. We’ve spent countless hours testing trolling motors to find the perfect balance of weight, power, and reliability for inflatable watercraft. From lightweight options like the 4.85-pound Watersnake to powerhouses like the Newport L-Series with 86 pounds of thrust, we’ll help you navigate the choices. But which motor will truly transform your fishing experience without draining your battery too quickly?

Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator

If you’re looking for a reliable power source for your inflatable boat, the Newport NV-Series Trolling Motor should be at the top of your list. With 36 pounds of thrust and a lightweight design at just 18.5 pounds, it’s perfect for smaller vessels.

We love that it offers 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) and can reach about 3mph, depending on your boat and conditions. The 30-inch shaft and transom mount make installation straightforward, while the 5-LED battery indicator helps monitor power levels. Though it’s saltwater-rated, it works beautifully in fresh water too, with its 2-blade propeller handling weeds like a champ.

Best For: Owners of smaller vessels and inflatable boats who need a lightweight yet powerful trolling motor that can work in both saltwater and freshwater environments.

Pros:

• Lightweight at 18.5 pounds while still providing 36 pounds of thrust, making it ideal for smaller boats
• Versatile operation with 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse) and a 2-blade propeller that performs well in weedy conditions
• Includes helpful features like a 5-LED battery indicator and comes with a 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Battery indicator may be inaccurate, potentially misleading users about remaining power
• First gear is relatively aggressive at 2.5mph, which might be too fast for subtle trolling
• Produces noticeable noise and handle vibration at higher speeds, which could potentially spook fish

Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator

The Newport NV-Series stands out as a powerhouse for inflatable boat owners seeking serious thrust in saltwater environments. With 55 pounds of thrust and eight speeds (five forward, three reverse), it’ll move your boat efficiently even against currents and wind.

We love its practical features – the telescoping tiller handle, adjustable mount angle, and 3-blade propeller provide excellent maneuverability. The 5-LED battery meter helps track power usage, though some users note it’s not perfectly accurate.

At 23.2 pounds with a 30-inch shaft, it’s substantial yet manageable for inflatables. The motor operates quietly at lower speeds but expect some vibration when pushing maximum power.

Best For: Inflatable boat owners seeking a powerful, versatile trolling motor for saltwater environments who need significant thrust to navigate against currents and winds.

Pros:

• Impressive 55 pounds of thrust with 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides excellent maneuverability and power for most boating conditions
• Features like the telescoping handle, adjustable mount angle, and included 50Amp circuit breaker add convenience and safety
• Performs well in saltwater environments with good battery efficiency, allowing for extended trips

Cons:

• The 5-LED battery meter receives complaints about accuracy, potentially leading to unreliable power readings
• Produces noticeable vibration and increased noise at higher speeds
• At 23.2 pounds, it’s heavier than some competing models, which might be challenging for some users to handle

Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor (30 Lb. Thrust)

Boaters seeking reliable power for their inflatable watercraft will find the Minn Kota Endura C2 an exceptional choice for maneuvering freshwater environments. This 30-pound thrust motor offers impressive versatility with its 10-position lever lock bracket and telescoping tiller that provides 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds.

We’ve found its battery performance particularly impressive—running up to 2 hours at middle settings with a 50Ah battery. The indestructible composite shaft comes with a lifetime guarantee, while the Power Prop handles heavy vegetation with ease. Customer ratings of 4.5/5 stars confirm what we’ve experienced: quiet operation, intuitive controls, and sufficient power for kayaks, canoes, and small inflatable boats.

Best For: Small boat owners looking for a reliable, lightweight electric trolling motor for freshwater environments such as kayaks, canoes, inflatable boats, and small vessels under 17 feet.

Pros:

• Versatile operation with 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds controlled through an adjustable telescoping tiller
• Impressive battery efficiency, offering up to 2 hours of use at medium settings with a 50Ah battery
• Durable construction featuring an indestructible composite shaft with lifetime guarantee and vegetation-handling Power Prop

Cons:

• Limited to freshwater use only, not suitable for saltwater environments
• At 30 lb thrust, may lack sufficient power for larger boats or challenging water conditions
• 17-pound weight might be cumbersome for solo kayakers or canoeists to install and remove frequently

Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator

Anglers searching for reliability and power will find the Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor a standout choice for their inflatable watercraft. We’re impressed with its 46lb thrust and 8-speed system that includes 5 forward and 3 reverse options. The 30-inch shaft works perfectly for most inflatable boats, while the 3-blade propeller delivers excellent torque.

What we love is how it performs all day on a single 12V battery. Though the LED battery meter isn’t always accurate, the motor’s efficiency is remarkable. At 20 pounds with aluminum construction, it’s lightweight yet durable enough to handle saltwater conditions. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind.

Best For: Anglers looking for a powerful, reliable saltwater trolling motor for inflatable boats, kayaks, or small watercraft who need all-day operation and versatile speed control.

Pros:

• Powerful 46lb thrust with 8-speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides excellent control for both trolling and cruising
• Durable saltwater-ready aluminum construction with a 2-year warranty and 30-inch shaft ideal for most inflatable boats
• Efficient power consumption allows for all-day operation on a single 12V battery with low amp draw

Cons:

• LED battery meter reported to be inaccurate by many users
• First gear speed of 2.5mph may be too aggressive for slow trolling applications
• Some vibration occurs at top speed which may affect comfort during extended use

PEXMOR 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor for Boats and Kayaks

Equipped with versatile 8-speed operation, the PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor makes a perfect match for inflatable boat owners who need reliable power without breaking the bank. Its 26LB thrust delivers ample power for most small to medium inflatable boats, with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds.

We’re impressed by the adjustability features—the telescoping handle offers 6 levels, while the adjustable shaft angle and depth settings help you adapt to different water conditions. The three-bladed propeller efficiently cuts through water and sheds seaweed easily. The LED battery indicator is a practical touch, warning you when power runs low.

Best For: Small to medium inflatable boat owners seeking an affordable, versatile electric motor with good power-to-price ratio and multiple speed options.

Pros:

• Versatile 8-speed operation (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides excellent control on the water
• Highly adjustable with 6-level telescoping handle, adjustable shaft angle, and depth settings
• Practical LED battery indicator system warns when power is running low

Cons:

• 26LB thrust may be insufficient for larger boats or challenging water conditions
• Some users might need to purchase a separate PWM controller for optimal speed control
• At 8.39 kg, it’s relatively heavy compared to some comparable models in its class

Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator

The Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor stands out as an excellent choice for inflatable boat owners who value stealth and versatility on the water. We’re impressed by its ultra-quiet operation that won’t scare fish away as you approach your favorite spots.

With 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds, this 24-inch fiberglass shaft motor gives you precise control while the 5-LED battery indicator helps track your remaining power. We love that it’s saltwater-rated with corrosion-resistant components, making it perfect for various environments. Weighing just 23 pounds, it won’t overburden your inflatable boat but still delivers impressive thrust for boats and kayaks up to 16 feet.

Best For: Anglers with inflatable boats, kayaks, or small watercraft up to 16 feet who need a versatile, saltwater-rated motor with precise speed control and quiet operation.

Pros:

• Ultra-quiet operation perfect for stealthy fishing approaches without disturbing fish
• Comprehensive speed options with 5 forward and 3 reverse settings for precise maneuvering
• Lightweight (23 lbs) but powerful design with corrosion-resistant components for saltwater use

Cons:

• Requires separate purchase of a 12V lead-acid deep cycle or marine battery
• May need additional modifications like a rudder for optimal tracking on some watercraft
• Limited to 0.83 horsepower, which may be insufficient for larger boats or strong currents

Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor

For lightweight kayaks and inflatable boat enthusiasts, the Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Saltwater Trolling Motor stands out as a remarkably portable powerhouse. At just 4.85 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to transport and mount. We love that it delivers 18 pounds of thrust—perfect for small vessels like canoes, kayaks, and inflatables.

The adjustable 24-inch shaft and extendable handle provide excellent control, while high/low speed settings and forward/reverse capabilities offer versatility on the water. With a 35Ah battery, you’ll get approximately 6 hours of intermittent use. Plus, the weedless propeller and anti-impact clip system show thoughtful design elements that matter during real-world fishing adventures.

Best For: Anglers and recreational boaters using lightweight watercraft like kayaks, canoes, and inflatable boats who need a portable, reliable electric motor for short trips.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight at just 4.85 lbs, making it easy to transport and install
• Versatile control with high/low speed settings, forward/reverse capabilities, and an extendable handle
• Two-blade weedless propeller with anti-impact clip system reduces snags and damage in shallow waters

Cons:

• Limited battery life with smaller batteries (9AH battery lasts only about 1.5 hours)
• Some users report issues with the nylon screws and transom bracket durability
• Relatively low thrust (18 lbs) may struggle against strong currents or winds with heavier loads

Newport Trolling Motor Smart Battery Box with USB and DC Ports

Inflatable boat owners seeking a complete power management solution will find the Newport Trolling Motor Smart Battery Box invaluable for their adventures. We’re impressed by how this compact powerhouse (measuring 17 x 12 x 10 inches) fits Group 24-27 batteries while weighing just 3 pounds.

What makes this battery box stand out is its versatility. You’ll appreciate the USB and 12V ports for charging phones and running accessories while on the water. The integrated LED meter lets you check battery levels with a simple button press. We love the safety features too—waterproof circuit breakers (10A and 60A) protect your equipment from electrical damage. The non-slip feet keep everything secure even when waves get choppy.

Best For: Inflatable boat owners and anglers who need a portable, all-in-one power management solution with device charging capabilities and battery status monitoring.

Pros:

• Versatile power options with USB and 12V DC ports for charging phones and running accessories while on the water
• Built-in safety features including waterproof 10A and 60A circuit breakers to protect equipment from electrical damage
• Convenient LED battery meter with test button allows for quick status checks without opening the box

Cons:

• At 17 x 12 x 10 inches, may take up significant space in smaller boats or kayaks
• Only compatible with Group 24-27 batteries, limiting options for those with other battery sizes
• No information provided about weather resistance beyond the waterproof circuit breakers

Newport L-Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with 86lb Thrust

Serious power enthusiasts will find the Newport L-Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with 86lb Thrust a standout choice for larger inflatable boats. This powerhouse offers impressive performance with its 24V system that can push boats up to 3000 pounds through the water at speeds reaching 4.5 mph. We’ve seen users successfully moving pontoons with up to 17 people!

The 40-inch adjustable shaft and 8-speed system (5 forward, 3 reverse) give you excellent control in various water conditions. Though it’s not perfect—the plastic control head isn’t fully waterproof and some users note the LED battery meter can be hard to read in sunlight—its stainless steel and zinc hardware stands up well against salt water’s corrosive effects.

Best For: Boaters needing significant thrust for larger vessels up to 3000 pounds, including pontoons, sailboats, and fishing boats operating in saltwater environments.

Pros:

• Powerful 86lb thrust with 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) that can move substantial watercraft even with multiple passengers
• Durable construction with saltwater-resistant hardware including stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc components
• Versatile design with 40-inch adjustable shaft and adjustable mount for angle, height, and direction control

Cons:

• Control head is not fully waterproof, requiring protection in heavy rain or splash conditions
• LED battery meter can be difficult to read in direct sunlight, especially with polarized sunglasses
• Some plastic components in the handle and gears may be prone to wear or damage with extended use

AQUOS Haswing 12V 55LBS Bow Mount Trolling Motor with Remote Control

The AQUOS Haswing 12V 55LBS Bow Mount Trolling Motor stands out as a powerhouse option for boating enthusiasts who demand reliable performance without breaking the bank. We’re impressed by its 55-pound thrust capacity, which can handle boats up to 2,750 pounds, making it perfect for inflatable boats, kayaks, and aluminum vessels.

What we truly love is the convenient palm-sized remote with 164-foot range that lets you control your trolling motor from anywhere on your boat. The cruise control feature maintains your desired speed, while the 48-inch corrosion-resistant shaft works in both fresh and saltwater environments. With a 4.4-star rating, it’s clear we’re not the only fans.

Best For: Small to medium boat owners seeking an affordable, reliable trolling motor with remote operation capability for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Pros:

• Versatile 55LBS thrust capacity handles boats up to 2,750 pounds including inflatables, kayaks, and aluminum boats
• Convenient 2.4G remote control with 164-foot range allows operation from anywhere on the boat
• Durable 48-inch corrosion-resistant shaft works in both fresh and saltwater environments

Cons:

• At 44 pounds, the unit is relatively heavy which may make installation more challenging
• Some manual direction correction may be needed in windy conditions or strong currents
• Limited to 12V operation which may restrict running time compared to higher voltage motors

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trolling Motor for Inflatable Boat

Finding the right trolling motor for your inflatable boat isn’t just about picking the most powerful option. We’ll walk through key factors like thrust requirements, battery life, weight considerations, proper shaft length, and whether you need a saltwater or freshwater model. Understanding these elements will help you choose a motor that perfectly matches your specific boating needs without wasting money on unnecessary features.

Thrust Requirements

When choosing a trolling motor for your inflatable boat, understanding thrust requirements is absolutely critical for proper performance. We recommend following the simple guideline of at least 2 pounds of thrust per 100 pounds of your boat’s fully loaded weight.

For smaller inflatables under 12 feet, 30-40 pounds of thrust works well on calm waters. Boats exceeding 14 feet typically need 55+ pounds of thrust for similar conditions. If you’ll be traversing windy areas or waters with strong currents, don’t skimp on power—aim for at least 55 pounds of thrust to maintain control.

Remember that insufficient thrust isn’t just about speed—it can drain your battery faster as the motor works harder. For choppy or fast-moving waters, larger inflatables might need up to 86 pounds of thrust for reliable performance.

Battery Life Considerations

Your battery choice matters just as much as the motor itself when equipping your inflatable boat. We recommend using a 12V deep cycle battery specifically designed to handle repeated discharges that trolling motors require.

When selecting a battery, pay attention to the ampere-hour (Ah) rating. A higher rating, like 50Ah, will generally provide longer runtime for your adventures. Keep in mind that your motor’s maximum amp draw (up to 52A at full throttle) can quickly drain your battery, so match capacity to your needs.

You’ll get the most runtime by operating at lower speeds (settings 1-3), which can extend your time on the water to 2-3 hours. Don’t forget that environmental factors like wind and current can increase power demands, potentially reducing your battery life by 25-50% in challenging conditions.

Weight and Portability

With the right battery powering your trolling motor, let’s examine another key factor that impacts your overall experience – weight and portability.

When selecting a motor for your inflatable boat, we recommend choosing one under 20 pounds. Lighter motors aren’t just easier to carry; they’re also simpler to mount without needing an extra pair of hands. Motors in the 5-10 pound range greatly reduce fatigue when you’re hiking to your launch spot.

For inflatable boats specifically, motors under 15 pounds put less strain on your boat’s structure while improving maneuverability during setup. Look for compact designs under 25 pounds that allow quick attachment and detachment – essential when you’re frequently changing locations. We’ve found that motors over 40 pounds often require additional equipment like carts, limiting true portability.

Shaft Length Selection

How deeply your trolling motor sits in the water can make or break your entire boating experience. When selecting the shaft length for your inflatable boat, you’ll want to match it carefully to your boat’s transom height, typically adding 12-18 inches for best performance.

For most inflatable boats, a shaft between 24-30 inches works well, preventing the motor from becoming too tall and causing instability. Going too short is risky—your propeller might break the surface during movement, reducing thrust and efficiency.

If you’re planning to tackle rougher waters, consider a longer shaft (40-48 inches) to maintain consistent submersion against waves.

We’ve found that choosing the right shaft length also improves battery life by reducing unnecessary strain on the motor—a practical benefit you’ll appreciate during longer outings.

Saltwater Vs Freshwater

Beyond shaft length, the environment where you’ll be boating directly impacts your trolling motor selection. We need to evaluate whether you’ll navigate saltwater or freshwater, as each requires different specifications.

Saltwater motors incorporate corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel and sacrificial anodes to combat the high salinity that accelerates rust. They’re sealed to prevent electrical issues from saltwater’s conductivity but may cost more than freshwater models.

Freshwater trolling motors use standard materials like aluminum, making them lighter and more budget-friendly. They typically require less maintenance since they don’t face salt buildup issues. You’ll also enjoy better efficiency and battery life without the electrolytic reactions that saltwater causes.

While you can use a saltwater motor in freshwater, the reverse isn’t recommended. If you plan to use your inflatable in both environments, always opt for a saltwater-rated model.

Mounting System Options

The right mounting system makes all the difference when attaching a trolling motor to your inflatable boat. We’ve found that transom mounts are typically the most popular choice for inflatable vessels, offering straightforward installation and removal when you need it. These attach to the rear of your boat for stable operation.

For those seeking better maneuverability, bow mounting systems position the motor at the front, giving you improved directional control when dealing with wind and currents. This can be a game-changer in challenging conditions.

Don’t overlook adjustable systems that let you change the motor’s angle and height based on water depth. Also consider the mount’s weight and materials – lighter composite options put less strain on your inflatable boat while still providing the durability needed to handle waves and vibration.