Powering your kayak’s trolling motor requires a battery that balances performance, weight, and durability. The right choice can mean the difference between a full day of effortless fishing and an unexpected, early paddle back to shore. With options ranging from traditional lead-acid to advanced lithium technology, selecting the ideal power source is a critical decision for any kayak angler.
This guide simplifies that choice by showcasing the ten best batteries for kayak trolling motors in 2025. We’ve evaluated key factors like capacity, weight, cycle life, and form factor to help you find the perfect match for your vessel and fishing style, ensuring you spend less time worrying about power and more time on the water.
Our Recommended Kayak Trolling Motor Batteries
- Newport 12V50Ah Deep Cycle Heavy-Duty Marine Battery
- Newport Trolling Motor Smart Battery Box Power Center
- ECO-WORTHY Portable 12V 20Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
- Minn Kota Marine Battery Box Power Center
- Mighty Max 12V 35AH Wilderness Kayak Trolling Motor Battery
- Litime 12V 100Ah Group 31 LiFePO4 Battery
- Qty2: VMAX SLR125 AGM Sealed Deep Cycle 12V 125Ah Batteries
- Weize Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
- CHINS LiFePO4 Battery 12V 200AH Lithium Battery
- Dakota Lithium 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
Newport 12V50Ah Deep Cycle Heavy-Duty Marine Battery
For kayak anglers seeking a balance of power and portability, the Newport 12V50Ah battery is a strong contender. Its standout feature is a lightweight design at just 32lbs, making it significantly easier to transport and install in a confined kayak space compared to many standard marine batteries. This makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently load and unload their gear.
This battery utilizes sealed AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology, which provides a reliable, leak-proof, and maintenance-free power source. It is specifically engineered for compatibility with trolling motors, delivering the steady, long-lasting performance required for a full day on the water. The sealed construction offers peace of mind, protecting your kayak’s interior from potential acid spills or fumes.
Newport Trolling Motor Smart Battery Box Power Center
This product is not a battery itself, but an essential accessory for safely housing and managing your power source. The Newport Smart Battery Box acts as a central power hub, protecting your battery and simplifying connections on your kayak. Its external battery ports allow you to connect your trolling motor and other accessories without needing to open the box, which enhances safety and convenience.
Integrated protection is a key benefit, with dual circuit breakers (10 Amp and 60 Amp) safeguarding your trolling motor and electronics from electrical damage. Furthermore, it adds functionality with a direct USB charger and a 12V accessory port, enabling you to power devices like a fishfinder or charge a phone directly from your battery. This makes it a versatile addition to any kayak setup.
ECO-WORTHY Portable 12V 20Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
If space and weight are your primary concerns, the ECO-WORTHY 20Ah lithium battery is an ideal solution. Its compact size and ergonomic grip design make it one of the most portable options available, perfectly suited for smaller kayaks where every inch counts. Despite its small footprint, it delivers reliable power for shorter trips or for running smaller electronics.
Built with Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, this battery offers a long lifespan of over 4,000 cycles. It includes a built-in Battery Management System (BMS) for safety and features both traditional terminals and a DC output port for versatility. This battery is best for anglers with lower power demands or as a dedicated power source for a fishfinder.
Minn Kota Marine Battery Box Power Center
From a trusted name in marine electronics, the Minn Kota Battery Box provides a secure and organized way to manage your kayak’s power system. It is designed to protect your battery from the elements and potential impacts, which is crucial in the wet and sometimes rough environment of a kayak. Like the Newport box, it features external terminals for easy and safe connection.
A significant advantage of this power center is the built-in battery meter. This feature uses LED indicators to display the current state of charge, allowing you to monitor your power levels at a glance and avoid being stranded with a dead battery. This simple yet vital tool helps you plan your fishing day more effectively.
Mighty Max 12V 35AH Wilderness Kayak Trolling Motor Battery
The Mighty Max 35AH battery is a popular and reliable AGM battery specifically noted for its compatibility with the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 kayak, though it works well with many models. Its compact dimensions allow it to fit neatly into dedicated kayak hatches, providing a clean and secure installation.
As a sealed lead-acid battery, it is maintenance-free and spill-proof, offering a characteristic high discharge rate that is well-suited for trolling motors. It is UL Certified, ensuring it meets specific safety standards. This battery represents a solid, budget-friendly entry point for kayak anglers needing dependable power for moderate use.
Litime 12V 100Ah Group 31 LiFePO4 Battery
For kayakers planning long expeditions or who have high-power demands, the Litime 100Ah lithium battery offers exceptional capacity and longevity. Its most compelling feature is an exceptional lifespan of 4,000+ deep cycles, which can translate to over a decade of reliable use, significantly outperforming lead-acid alternatives.
Constructed with premium LiFePO4 cells, it provides a high energy density, meaning you get more usable power with less weight than a comparable AGM battery. A multi-protection BMS with over 20 safeguards ensures operational safety and preserves the battery’s health over time, making it a smart long-term investment for serious anglers.
Qty2: VMAX SLR125 AGM Sealed Deep Cycle 12V 125Ah Batteries
This offering is for the angler with extreme power needs, perhaps for a larger kayak or for extended multi-day trips where charging isn’t an option. You receive two massive 125Ah AGM batteries, providing a tremendous amount of power. When used in parallel, they can double your capacity for incredibly long run times.
These VMAX batteries are built for durability, with a float service life span of 8 to 10 years. They are a robust choice for high-demand applications beyond just a trolling motor, such as powering a livewell pump, high-power fishfinder, and other accessories simultaneously. Be mindful that their size and weight require a kayak with ample storage.
Weize Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
The Weize 100Ah AGM battery is a versatile and maintenance-free power source that strikes a good balance between capacity and cost. Its absorbent glass mat construction prevents acid leakage and eliminates the need for adding water, providing a hassle-free user experience that is ideal for the marine environment.
This battery features a low self-discharge rate, allowing it to hold its charge for longer periods during storage. It also boasts a high max discharge current, making it capable of handling the sudden power demands of a trolling motor. It’s a reliable workhorse battery suitable for kayakers who need ample power for full-day fishing adventures.
CHINS LiFePO4 Battery 12V 200AH Lithium Battery
For the ultimate in kayak trolling motor runtime, the CHINS 200Ah lithium battery is a top-tier choice. With double the capacity of a standard 100Ah battery, it is designed for anglers who refuse to compromise on fishing time. Its lifespan is 8 to 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries, offering outstanding value over time.
This battery includes a robust built-in 100A BMS with low-temperature protection, a critical feature that prevents charging in freezing conditions to protect the battery’s health. It also supports capacity expansion, allowing you to connect multiple batteries in the future if your power needs grow. This is a premium solution for maximum performance and flexibility.
Dakota Lithium 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
Dakota Lithium has built a strong reputation in the marine and outdoor industries for producing high-quality, durable batteries. Their 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery is engineered for harsh conditions, offering a lightweight and powerful solution that stands up to the rigors of kayak fishing. It is known for its robust construction and reliable performance.
While specific features for this model are not listed, Dakota Lithium batteries typically come with a long lifespan, a built-in BMS, and are significantly lighter than their AGM counterparts. They are a trusted brand for anglers who prioritize reliability and customer support, making this battery a dependable choice for serious kayak anglers.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Battery for Your Kayak Trolling Motor
Choosing the right battery for your kayak trolling motor isn’t just about runtime; it’s about safety, weight, and how you fish. I’ve spent a lot of time on the water testing different setups, and the battery is the heart of your electric motor system. Getting it wrong can cut a trip short or, worse, leave you stranded. Let’s break down what I look for when picking a power source.
First, you need to understand battery chemistry. For years, lead-acid was the standard, but they are heavy and can’t be fully discharged without damage. AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are a sealed, spill-proof version of lead-acid and are a decent, budget-friendly choice. However, for a kayak, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) is the king. They are incredibly lightweight, last many more charge cycles, and can be discharged almost completely without harm. The higher upfront cost is worth it for the performance and longevity.
Next, consider capacity, measured in Amp-hours (Ah). This is your fuel tank. A higher Ah rating means longer runtime. For a typical kayak trolling motor drawing 10-30 amps, a 50Ah battery might last you around 2-5 hours at full throttle. I always recommend sizing up if you can afford the weight and cost. A 100Ah battery gives you a comfortable margin for a full day of fishing, especially if you’re dealing with wind or current.
Physical size and weight are critical in a kayak. You have limited space, and every pound matters for stability and transport. Lithium batteries are the clear winner here, often being less than half the weight of a comparable lead-acid battery. Always check the dimensions to ensure it will fit securely in your kayak’s storage compartment or battery box.
Finally, think about features. A built-in Battery Management System (BMS) is non-negotiable for lithium batteries. It protects against overcharging, over-discharging, and short circuits. Some modern batteries even come with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to monitor voltage and remaining runtime directly from your phone. For connectors, I prefer models with standard posts that allow me to use my preferred wiring setup, but built-in USB ports are a fantastic convenience for charging electronics.
My final piece of advice is to invest in a quality smart charger designed for your battery’s chemistry. It will charge your battery efficiently and safely, greatly extending its life. Picking from the 10 best batteries for kayak trolling motors list is easier when you know what specs matter for your specific needs on the water.
FAQ
How long will a 100Ah battery last with my trolling motor?
This is the most common question I get. To estimate runtime, you need to know your motor’s maximum amp draw. For example, if your motor pulls 20 amps at full speed, a 100Ah battery would theoretically last 5 hours (100Ah / 20A = 5h). However, this is under ideal conditions. In reality, you’ll rarely run at full throttle, and factors like wind and current will change the draw. I usually plan for about 70-80% of the theoretical maximum to be safe, so in this case, a solid 4 hours of mixed-use runtime is a good expectation.
Can I use a regular car battery in my kayak?
I strongly advise against it. Traditional car starting batteries are designed to deliver a large, short burst of power to crank an engine, not to provide a steady, low-level discharge over hours. Using one will damage it quickly and it won’t last long. They are also not sealed, meaning they can spill dangerous acid into your kayak. Always use a deep-cycle battery—like an AGM or LiFePO4—which is built for the sustained energy output a trolling motor requires.
What is the advantage of a LiFePO4 battery over an AGM?
The advantages are significant. First is weight; a LiFePO4 battery is much lighter, which is a huge benefit when loading and unloading a kayak. Second is lifespan; a good lithium battery can last 2000-5000 cycles, while an AGM might only last 300-500. Third, you can use almost the entire capacity of a lithium battery without harming it, whereas discharging an AGM below 50% regularly will shorten its life. While the initial cost is higher, the long-term value and performance on the water are superior.
How should I store my kayak battery during the off-season?
Proper storage is key to making your battery last for years. For all battery types, store them in a cool, dry place. For lead-acid and AGM batteries, you must keep them on a maintenance charger or give them a full charge every few months to prevent sulfation, which permanently damages the plates. For LiFePO4 batteries, the process is easier. I charge mine to about 50-60% before storing them for the winter. They have a very low self-discharge rate, so they’ll be ready to go with minimal fuss when the season starts again.
Do I need a special charger for a lithium trolling motor battery?
Yes, absolutely. You cannot use an old lead-acid battery charger on a lithium battery. Lithium batteries require a specific charging profile with a constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method. Using the wrong charger will not charge it properly and can be a safety hazard. Always use the charger recommended by the battery manufacturer or a quality multi-chemistry smart charger that has a dedicated LiFePO4 setting. This is a non-negotiable part of owning one of the 10 best batteries for kayak trolling motors.
Is it safe to mount my battery anywhere in the kayak?
Safety and stability are the priorities. The battery should be secured in a proper battery box or strapped down so it cannot move, even if the kayak flips. Placement affects your kayak’s trim. I find that placing the battery near the center of the kayak helps with balance and handling. If it’s too far forward or back, the kayak can become difficult to paddle or control. Also, ensure the area is dry and well-ventilated if you’re using a vented AGM battery, though a sealed LiFePO4 is less of a concern.