10 Best Trolling Motors for Walleye Fishing That Actually Deliver Results

Fishing for walleye without the right trolling motor is like trying to thread a needle in the dark—frustrating and often fruitless. We’ve tested dozens of models to find the 10 that truly deliver results on the water. Our selections range from the powerful Newport NV-Series to the compact Kayak Series, each offering different advantages for serious anglers. Whether you’re battling currents or quietly stalking shallow waters, the perfect motor awaits in our carefully researched list.

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

The Newport NV-Series is a powerhouse for serious walleye anglers who need reliability in challenging conditions. With 62 pounds of thrust and a 36-inch shaft, this motor handles tough waters while maintaining impressive control. We’ve found its 8-speed system (5 forward, 3 reverse) offers excellent versatility when trolling at different depths.

What we love most is the motor’s practical design—the 5 LED battery indicator helps track power usage, though some users note it’s not always accurate. At 4.25 mph top speed and weighing only 23 pounds, it’s an excellent middle-ground option between higher-priced Minn Kota models and less durable alternatives.

Best For: Serious saltwater anglers seeking a reliable, mid-range trolling motor that offers good power and speed for medium-sized boats in challenging conditions.

Pros:

• Powerful 62lb thrust with 8-speed system (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides excellent control and versatility for different trolling situations
• Lightweight design at 23 pounds with a 36-inch shaft and 3-blade propeller delivers good performance up to 4.25 mph
• Practical features include 5 LED battery indicator, 6-inch telescoping tiller handle, and adjustable mount for customizable positioning

Cons:

• Battery indicator readings can be inaccurate according to user feedback
• May experience some vibration when operating at top speeds
• Not as durable as premium brands like Minn Kota, though better quality than some lower-end alternatives

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

Walleye anglers looking for a versatile and powerful trolling motor will find the Newport NV-Series Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator an impressive option. With 55 pounds of thrust and 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse), it’s perfect for maneuvering through various water conditions we often face during walleye season.

We’ve found the 30-inch shaft and adjustable mount provide excellent versatility, while the 5-LED battery meter helps monitor power usage during longer fishing trips. It’s surprisingly quiet at lower speeds, which is vital when stalking skittish walleye. At just 23.2 pounds with a 2-year warranty, it delivers dependable performance comparable to more expensive brands.

Best For: Walleye anglers seeking a powerful, versatile trolling motor with multiple speed options for fishing in various water conditions while balancing performance and value.

Pros:

• Powerful 55lb thrust with 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides excellent maneuverability in different water conditions
• Lightweight design (23.2 pounds) with adjustable mount and 30-inch shaft makes it versatile and easy to handle
• Built-in 5-LED battery meter helps monitor power usage during extended fishing trips

Cons:

• Battery indicator may be inaccurate according to user reviews
• Produces noticeable vibration and becomes louder at higher speeds
• Requires a separate 12V deep cycle battery (minimum 50Ah recommended) which adds to the overall cost

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

Many anglers seeking reliable power for smaller boats will find the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor an excellent choice for walleye fishing.

We’ve been impressed by this 30-pound thrust motor‘s versatility on the water. With five forward speeds and three reverse settings, it offers precise control when approaching walleye hotspots. The telescoping 6-inch tiller and lever lock bracket make adjustments a breeze during long fishing sessions. Battery life is solid—about two hours at middle settings with a 50 Ah battery, though we recommend a 100 Ah backup for full-day trips. It’s whisper-quiet too, so you won’t spook those skittish walleye when positioning your boat.

Best For: Small boat owners, kayakers, and casual anglers looking for a reliable, lightweight trolling motor with sufficient power for freshwater fishing trips.

Pros:

• Versatile performance with 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse settings for precise maneuvering
• Durable construction with an indestructible composite shaft that comes with a lifetime guarantee
• Quiet operation that won’t disturb fish, with convenient features like the telescoping tiller and battery meter

Cons:

• Limited run time (2 hours at middle setting with a 50 Ah battery) necessitates backup batteries for full-day excursions
• At 17 pounds, may be somewhat heavy for very small vessels like pedal boats or inflatable kayaks
• Less powerful than higher-thrust models, making it unsuitable for larger boats or challenging water conditions

Newport Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Electric Trolling Motor with LED Indicator

For serious walleye anglers seeking versatility without breaking the bank, Newport’s Thrust Saltwater Trolling Motor offers impressive performance at a middle-tier price point. With 36 pounds of thrust and eight speed settings (five forward, three reverse), this motor delivers the control you need for precise walleye presentations.

We’ve found the 30-inch shaft and adjustable mount work well for most fishing boats. The five-LED battery indicator helps manage your time on the water, though it’s not always spot-on accurate. What we really appreciate is the motor’s efficiency—it’ll run all day without overheating, letting you cover more walleye water with less worry.

Best For: Walleye anglers with small to medium-sized fishing boats who need reliable trolling performance in freshwater environments without investing in premium-priced models.

Pros:

• Impressive battery efficiency allows for all-day operation without overheating or excessive noise
• Versatile speed control with 8 settings (5 forward, 3 reverse) provides precise presentation options for walleye fishing
• Lightweight design at 18.5 pounds makes it easier to handle and mount than heavier alternatives

Cons:

• Battery indicator with 5 LEDs is not consistently accurate, making power management challenging
• First speed setting is relatively aggressive at approximately 2.5mph, which may be too fast for ultra-slow presentations
• Handle vibration becomes noticeable at higher speeds, potentially affecting comfort during extended use

Minn Kota PowerDrive Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS (55 Lb. Thrust)

The Minn Kota PowerDrive offers serious walleye anglers a technological edge with its advanced GPS system. We’ve found this 55-pound thrust bow-mount motor truly delivers with features like spot-lock capability that keeps you positioned over schools of fish without constantly adjusting your position.

What we love most is the Deploy-Assist Lever that makes launching and stowing effortless, plus the Digital Maximizer that extends battery life up to five times longer. The included micro remote lets you control speed and steering without fumbling for the motor itself. With a nearly perfect 4.6-star rating, this freshwater trolling motor combines power and precision that walleye fishermen need for consistent success.

Best For: Serious walleye anglers looking for a powerful, GPS-equipped trolling motor that offers precise positioning control and extended battery life.

Pros:

• Advanced GPS system with spot-lock capability keeps your boat positioned over fishing spots without manual adjustments
• Digital Maximizer technology extends battery life up to five times longer on a single charge
• Deploy-Assist Lever makes launching and stowing the motor quick and effortless

Cons:

• Battery gauge may not accurately read charge levels when using lithium-ion batteries
• Some units have reportedly arrived with broken parts requiring replacement
• Not compatible with foot pedal control, requiring reliance on the included micro remote

PEXMOR 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor for Boats and Kayaks

Walleye anglers needing versatile power for different fishing conditions will appreciate the PEXMOR 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor. Its 26LB thrust and 8-speed system (5 forward, 3 reverse) delivers quiet performance that won’t spook fish.

We love the adjustability features—the telescoping handle offers 6 positions while the shaft angle adjusts with a simple button press. The three-bladed propeller efficiently cuts through water and sheds weeds easily.

The battery indicator system uses color-coded LED lights to track power levels, so you’ll never get stranded. At just 8.39kg with a 4.5-star rating from over 700 users, it’s a reliable choice for smaller walleye boats and kayaks.

Best For: Walleye anglers using small to medium-sized boats or kayaks who need a quiet, adjustable motor with multiple speed options for versatile fishing conditions.

Pros:

• Multi-speed system with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds provides precise control for different fishing situations
• Highly adjustable with 6-level telescoping handle, button-controlled shaft angle, and depth adjustment knob
• Battery monitoring system with color-coded LED indicators prevents unexpected power loss on the water

Cons:

• Limited to 26LB thrust, which may be insufficient for larger boats or strong currents
• Additional PWM controller recommended for optimal speed control, adding to total cost
• At 8.39kg (18.5 lbs), it may be somewhat heavy for solo kayak anglers to mount alone

Newport X-Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with 55lb Thrust

Serious walleye anglers seeking a versatile trolling motor will find the Newport X-Series Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor with 55lb thrust an impressive option for their fishing setup. We’ve tested this powerhouse extensively and love its 8-speed system with 5 forward and 3 reverse settings, making precision trolling a breeze.

The 36-inch fiberglass shaft and 3-blade propeller deliver excellent torque and can push boats up to 4mph. We appreciate the 10 LED battery indicator that helps manage your time on the water. Though it can get noisy at higher speeds, its ability to handle loads up to 500 pounds makes it perfect for walleye boats.

Best For: Anglers with small to medium-sized boats (up to 17 feet) looking for a reliable, versatile saltwater trolling motor with good battery monitoring and multiple speed options for precise fishing control.

Pros:

• Features 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) with LED battery indicator to monitor power levels during use
• Long 36-inch fiberglass shaft with 3-blade propeller provides excellent torque for handling loads up to 500 pounds
• Versatile mounting system works with multiple boat types including inflatables, kayaks, aluminum boats, and fishing vessels

Cons:

• Generates noticeable noise and vibration, especially when jumping from speed 4 to 5
• Maximum battery life of only about 2 hours when operating at full thrust
• Some customers report propeller nut issues and occasional excessive battery drain

Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor with LED Battery Indicator

Kayak anglers seeking an efficient, versatile trolling motor will find the Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust model particularly appealing for walleye fishing expeditions. We’ve tested this compact powerhouse extensively and love its 8-speed system (5 forward, 3 reverse) that gives you precise control when stalking those elusive walleye.

The 24-inch fiberglass shaft and ultra-quiet operation let us approach fishing spots stealthily, while the 2-blade propeller reduces drag for better battery efficiency. We appreciate the LED battery indicator that helps track runtime during longer trips. At just under 20 pounds with saltwater rating, it’s durable yet manageable for solo anglers. Customers consistently praise its easy installation and smooth performance.

Best For: Kayak anglers seeking a lightweight, portable, and versatile trolling motor for stealthy walleye fishing in both saltwater and freshwater environments.

Pros:

• Ultra-quiet operation with 8 speeds (5 forward, 3 reverse) allows for stealthy approaches to fishing spots
• 24-inch fiberglass shaft and lightweight design (19.56 pounds) make it easy to transport and install
• Durable aluminum construction with corrosion-resistant components ensures longevity in saltwater conditions

Cons:

• Battery indicator may be inaccurate in some cases, making runtime monitoring unreliable
• Relatively heavy for side mounting on kayaks, potentially affecting stability
• Requires additional battery purchase (12V lead-acid deep cycle or marine battery) which adds to overall weight

AQUOS Haswing 12V 55LBS Trolling Motor with Remote

The AQUOS Haswing 12V 55LBS Trolling Motor offers an impressive combination of power and control that’s perfect for anglers targeting walleye in various water conditions. We’ve found its 12V system delivers speeds up to 3.8 mph in a 14-foot boat, which is ideal for trolling at walleye-friendly speeds.

What we love most is the palm-sized remote that works up to 164 feet away, letting you control your boat while focusing on fishing. The 26-inch adjustable aluminum shaft adapts to different water depths, and the motor’s salt/freshwater compatibility means you’re covered wherever walleye take you. With longer battery life than comparable motors, you’ll spend more time fishing and less time charging.

Best For: Anglers with small to medium-sized boats who want a versatile trolling motor with remote capabilities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Pros:

• Wireless remote control operates up to 164ft away, providing convenient operation from anywhere on the boat
• Adjustable 26-inch aluminum shaft accommodates various water depths with a 0-85 degree tilting position
• Energy-efficient design provides longer run times than comparable motors, with users reporting double the runtime of older Minn Kota models

Cons:

• At 33 pounds (15kg), it’s relatively heavy compared to some competing models
• Some users report issues with the remote malfunctioning or requiring replacement
• Produces audible noise during operation, though still quieter than combustion engines

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

Walleye anglers looking for exceptional control and versatility will find the AQUOS Haswing 12V 55LBS Bow Mount Trolling Motor an impressive option for their fishing adventures. We’ve been impressed by its quiet operation and 55-pound thrust capability, which easily handles boats up to 2,750 pounds.

What sets this motor apart is the handy palm-sized remote control with 164-foot range. We love the cruise control feature that maintains your desired speed while you focus on fishing. The 48-inch corrosion-resistant shaft works in both freshwater and saltwater, making it versatile for different walleye habitats.

With its one-hand deployment system and 180-degree rotation, it’s a practical choice for serious walleye enthusiasts.

Best For: Walleye anglers with small to medium-sized boats (up to 2,750 pounds) who want precise control, variable speeds, and the convenience of remote operation in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

Pros:

• Quiet operation with 55 pounds of thrust provides excellent maneuverability while preventing fish disturbance
• Palm-sized 2.4G remote control with 164-foot range and cruise control feature allows hands-free operation while fishing
• Versatile 48-inch corrosion-resistant shaft works in both freshwater and saltwater with one-hand deployment system

Cons:

• At 44 pounds, the unit is relatively heavy compared to some competing models
• Maximum boat weight capacity of 2,750 pounds may be insufficient for larger fishing vessels
• Some users may find the depth adjustment collar requires frequent tightening during use

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trolling Motor for Walleye Fishing

Let’s explore what matters when picking the perfect trolling motor for your walleye fishing adventures. We’ll look at key factors like thrust power needs, shaft length options, quiet operation features, saltwater versus freshwater compatibility, and battery life considerations. These elements will help you match your fishing style with the right motor capabilities, ensuring you get the most from your time on the water.

Thrust Power Requirements

When selecting a trolling motor for walleye fishing, understanding thrust requirements can make or break your experience on the water. We’ve found that you’ll need at least 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of total weight (boat, gear, and passengers) to maintain steady movement.

For most walleye scenarios, we recommend motors with 50+ pounds of thrust to maintain those perfect trolling speeds between 1-4 mph, especially when facing winds or currents. Going with less than 30 pounds on a boat over 1,000 pounds will seriously limit your coverage of prime fishing spots.

Higher thrust motors (around 55 pounds) actually extend battery life since they operate more efficiently at lower settings. Remember, your needs will vary by location—calm lakes might only require 30 pounds, while rivers or windy conditions could demand up to 70 pounds.

Shaft Length Selection

After sorting out your motor’s thrust requirements, getting the shaft length right becomes our next priority. We’ve found that proper shaft length guarantees your propeller stays submerged in all conditions, which is essential for walleye fishing.

For smaller boats like kayaks, a 30-36 inch shaft typically works well. If you’re running a larger vessel or fish in rougher waters, you’ll want to evaluate a 48-60 inch option. The rule of thumb we follow is adding 12-20 inches to the distance between your mounting point and the waterline.

Quiet Operation Features

Quiet operation remains the unsung hero of successful walleye fishing. When we’re stalking these wary fish in shallow waters, the last thing we want is a noisy motor scaring them away. That’s why variable speed settings are essential – they let us dial down to whisper-quiet speeds that won’t spook our target.

We’ve found that trolling motors with multi-blade propellers greatly reduce noise by minimizing cavitation and turbulence. Look for models with advanced cooling systems too, as they prevent overheating without creating extra noise during those long fishing sessions.

Don’t overlook the importance of composite materials in shafts and mounts. These absorb vibrations that would otherwise travel through the water. Electronic controls that optimize power draw also help maintain those vital low noise levels for hours of stealthy fishing.

Saltwater Vs Freshwater

Why do so many walleye anglers overlook the crucial distinction between saltwater and freshwater trolling motors? While walleye are freshwater fish, understanding these differences helps you make better equipment choices.

Freshwater motors use standard materials like aluminum and plastics that work perfectly for walleye fishing. They’re cheaper and need less maintenance – just a quick rinse after use. In contrast, saltwater motors need stainless steel or special coatings to combat salt’s aggressive corrosion, which can damage components ten times faster.

We’ve found freshwater motors deliver more consistent performance for walleye fishing, without the 20% reduction in speed and thrust that salt water can cause. Plus, you’ll avoid the faster battery drain that happens in saltwater due to higher electrical conductivity. For dedicated walleye anglers, a quality freshwater motor is almost always the smarter investment.

Battery Life Considerations

While many walleye anglers focus solely on thrust power, battery life often determines whether you’ll be fishing or paddling home at the end of the day. Battery capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), directly affects how long you can stay on the water. A 50Ah battery might keep you trolling for hours at moderate speeds, but crank it to full power and you’ll drain it quickly.

We’ve learned that amp draw varies dramatically with speed settings—running at full throttle might pull up to 58 amps, while halving your speed can cut power consumption substantially. Smart variable speed management is key to extending your time on the water.

Don’t forget that environmental factors matter too. Wind, boat weight, and water conditions can increase power demands by up to 50%, so always plan with extra capacity for those challenging days.

Mounting Type Options

The choice of mounting location for your trolling motor can dramatically influence your walleye fishing success. We’ve found that transom mounts are perfect for smaller boats like kayaks and canoes, weighing just 15-23 pounds and offering easy installation when you’re on the go. They’re a breeze to remove after a day on the water too.

For serious walleye anglers, bow mounts deliver superior control in windy conditions or strong currents. Though they require more space to install, they’re worth considering for their precision steering and depth adjustment capabilities of up to 48 inches. Many bow mounts also feature quiet operation with remote controls that work from distances up to 164 feet—meaning you won’t spook those wary walleye when approaching your fishing spot.

Speed Control Systems

Selecting a trolling motor with the right speed control system can make or break your walleye fishing experience. We’ve found that motors with multiple settings (typically 5 forward/3 reverse) give you the precision needed for perfect lure presentation.

The best systems now offer stepless controls, allowing infinite speed adjustments to handle changing winds and currents. This is essential when you’re trying to maintain that perfect walleye-tempting speed without spooking fish.

Don’t overlook efficiency either – advanced digital controllers with pulse width modulation can reduce battery drain by 20-40%, extending your time on the water. Some cutting-edge models even stretch battery life up to 5 times longer through smart power management.

For walleye success, we recommend motors with fine incremental adjustments that let you dial in the exact speed for the conditions you’re facing.

Durability and Materials

Durability stands as the cornerstone of any quality trolling motor for walleye fishing, where harsh conditions can test even the toughest equipment. We’ve found that the best motors utilize aluminum and fiberglass shafts, offering excellent corrosion resistance whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater environments.

Look for composite materials in the shaft construction—these provide exceptional flexibility and can withstand impacts without breaking. The hardware matters too; stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc components resist corrosion, preventing rust that can cripple your motor over time.

We appreciate manufacturers who prioritize lightweight aluminum construction, keeping motors between 17-44 pounds for easier handling and transport. Extended warranties (typically 1-2 years) are also a good indicator of quality materials and construction. These warranties suggest the motor can endure hundreds of hours in challenging conditions.