Powering your trolling motor on a kayak requires a battery that strikes the perfect balance between capacity, weight, and durability. Unlike car batteries, a deep cycle battery is designed to provide a steady amount of power over a long period and can be repeatedly discharged and recharged. Choosing the right one is critical for a successful and stress-free day on the water, ensuring you have enough juice to get back to the launch point.
The two main types you’ll encounter are traditional lead-acid (AGM/SLA) and modern lithium (LiFePO4). AGM batteries are a proven, cost-effective option, while lithium batteries offer a significant weight savings and a much longer lifespan, though at a higher initial cost. Your choice will depend on your budget, the runtime you need, and how much weight you’re willing to carry. This roundup covers the best options available to help you make an informed decision.
The Best 12V Batteries for Kayak Anglers
- FLLYROWER Lithium Battery 12V 12AH With 17000 Deep Cycles
- ML35-12 – 12 Volt 35 AH SLA Battery- Mighty Max Battery
- ExpertPower EXP12330 12V 33Ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle AGM Battery
- VMAXTANKS VMAX SLR125 12V 125Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery
- NOCO NLP30 12V 30Ah Lithium Deep Cycle Battery
- Dakota Lithium DL 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle LiFePO4 Battery
- Ampere Time 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
- Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle AGM SLA Battery
FLLYROWER Lithium Battery 12V 12AH
For kayak anglers seeking a lightweight and long-lasting lithium solution, the FLLYROWER 12V 12Ah battery is a compelling option. Its compact size and light weight make it easy to stow in a kayak’s hatch without adding significant bulk. The use of Grade A LiFePO4 cells promises an exceptional lifespan of up to ten years and 17,000 deep cycles, making it a set-and-forget power source for seasons to come.
This battery includes a robust Battery Management System (BMS) that provides comprehensive protection. It safeguards against overcharge, over-discharge, short circuits, and even includes low-temperature protection, which is vital for early morning or late-season fishing trips. Furthermore, it supports capacity expansion, allowing you to connect multiple batteries in parallel for longer runtime if your power needs grow in the future.
ML35-12 – 12 Volt 35 AH SLA Battery
The Mighty Max ML35-12 is a budget-friendly and reliable sealed lead acid (SLA) battery that serves as a solid entry point for kayak trolling motor power. Its 35Ah capacity provides a good balance between runtime and physical size, suitable for shorter trips or smaller waterways. As an AGM battery, it is maintenance-free, spill-proof, and can be mounted in any orientation, adding to its versatility on a kayak.
This battery is noted for its wide compatibility with various light trolling motors, including popular models from Minn Kota. It’s a direct replacement for many 33Ah to 36Ah batteries, making it an easy swap for anglers looking for a dependable and affordable power cell. For those who are new to electric motor fishing or have modest power requirements, the ML35-12 delivers proven performance without a large investment.
ExpertPower EXP12330 12V 33Ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle AGM Battery
ExpertPower is a trusted name in the battery industry, and their EXP12330 model is a purpose-built deep cycle AGM battery ideal for marine applications. With a 33Ah capacity, it is well-suited for powering trolling motors on kayaks and small watercraft. The absorbed glass mat (AGM) technology ensures no water needs to be added and makes the battery highly resistant to vibration, a common occurrence during transport to and from the water.
This battery is designed for deep discharge recovery, allowing it to be drained and recharged repeatedly without significant loss of capacity. Its sealed construction prevents acid leakage and corrosion, protecting your kayak and gear. For anglers who prefer the reliability and lower upfront cost of AGM technology, the ExpertPower EXP12330 is a durable and consistent performer.
VMAXTANKS VMAX SLR125 12V 125Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery
When you need maximum runtime for long days on big water, the VMAXTANKS SLR125 offers an impressive 125Ah of capacity. This AGM battery is built for endurance, making it suitable for anglers who run their trolling motor for hours on end or who use multiple electronics like fish finders and livewell pumps. Despite its high capacity, it maintains a sealed, maintenance-free design.
The SLR125 utilizes a special plate design that provides high discharge currents and excellent deep cycle capabilities. It’s a heavy-duty option, so its larger size and weight must be considered for kayak installation. However, for those who prioritize extended power above all else and have the space to accommodate it, this battery delivers exceptional performance and reliability.
NOCO NLP30 12V 30Ah Lithium Deep Cycle Battery
NOCO is renowned for its quality battery accessories, and the NLP30 brings that expertise to a compact lithium power source. Weighing only 7 pounds, this 30Ah battery offers a fantastic power-to-weight ratio, significantly reducing the load in your kayak compared to a similar AGM battery. Its rugged, waterproof case (IP67-rated) is specifically designed to handle the harsh marine environment.
This lithium battery features advanced thermal and electrical protection, ensuring safe operation in a wide range of temperatures. It’s a true drop-in replacement for many lead-acid batteries, requiring no special chargers. For the kayak angler who values a lightweight, durable, and premium-branded lithium battery without needing a massive capacity, the NOCO NLP30 is an excellent choice.
Dakota Lithium DL 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle LiFePO4 Battery
Dakota Lithium has built a strong reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, and their 12V 100Ah battery is a top-tier option for serious kayak anglers. It combines a high 100Ah capacity with the lightweight and long-life benefits of LiFePO4 chemistry. Weighing just 26.5 pounds, it is less than half the weight of a comparable AGM battery, making a huge difference in kayak handling and portability.
This battery is built to last, with a 11-year warranty and a rating of over 2000 deep cycles. It includes a built-in Battery Management System for protection and can be discharged to 100% of its capacity without damage, unlike lead-acid batteries. For those who need long-lasting power for multi-day trips or heavy electronics use and want the best in lithium technology, the Dakota Lithium is a premier investment.
Ampere Time 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
The Ampere Time 12V 100Ah battery offers exceptional value in the high-capacity lithium market. It provides the same 100Ah capacity as premium brands but at a more accessible price point, making long-duration lithium power available to more kayak anglers. Its lightweight design (approx. 24 pounds) and compact size make it manageable for kayak installation.
This battery features a robust BMS with all the standard protections and is rated for over 4000 cycles, ensuring many years of reliable service. It uses high-quality LiFePO4 cells for safety and stability. For anglers looking to upgrade from a heavy AGM battery to a high-capacity lithium solution without the highest price tag, the Ampere Time battery represents a very compelling option.
Weize 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle AGM SLA Battery
If your budget requires a traditional AGM battery but you need the extended runtime of a 100Ah capacity, the Weize deep cycle battery is a reliable and cost-effective solution. It delivers substantial power for full-day or even multi-day fishing trips, running a trolling motor and accessories without worry. As a sealed lead acid battery, it is maintenance-free and safe for use in confined spaces.
This battery is constructed with thick, pure lead plates for superior performance and a long service life. It is designed to handle the repeated charging and discharging cycles that kayak fishing demands. While it is heavier than a lithium equivalent, its affordability and high capacity make it a popular choice for anglers who have the space and don’t mind the extra weight for the sake of a lower initial cost.
What to Look For in the Best 8V Battery for Kayak Fishing
As someone who spends a lot of time on the water, I know that choosing the right battery for your kayak is just as important as picking the right rod or lure. Your fish finder, trolling motor, and livewell pump are all useless without reliable power. When it comes to finding the best 8V battery for kayak fishing, you need to look beyond just the price tag and focus on a few key features that will make or break your day on the water.
First and foremost, consider the battery chemistry. For years, sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries were the standard. They’re affordable and get the job done, but they’re also heavy and have a shorter lifespan. The real game-changer for kayak anglers has been the shift to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. They are significantly lighter—sometimes a third of the weight of a comparable SLA battery. This is a huge advantage when you’re loading and unloading your kayak. They also last much longer, both in terms of daily runtime (amp-hours) and overall lifespan (number of charge cycles). While the upfront cost is higher, I find the investment pays for itself in the long run.
Next, you need to match the battery’s capacity to your gear. Capacity is measured in amp-hours (Ah). Think of this as the size of your fuel tank. A simple rule of thumb is to add up the amp draw of all your electronics. For example, if your fish finder draws 1 amp and you run it for 8 hours, that’s 8Ah. Add in a trolling motor or a light, and your needs can quickly jump to 20Ah or more. I always recommend getting a battery with a higher Ah rating than you think you’ll need. It’s better to have power left over at the end of the day than to be stranded with a dead unit.
Finally, pay close attention to the physical build and features. A good kayak battery should be housed in a durable, waterproof case. Look for batteries with built-in handles for easy transport and mounting options that fit your kayak’s setup. Many modern lithium options come with a state-of-charge indicator, which is incredibly helpful for planning your trip. Integrated Battery Management Systems (BMS) are also critical, as they protect the battery from overcharging, deep discharging, and short circuits, which greatly extends its life and keeps you safe on the water.
FAQ
How long will an 8V battery last while kayak fishing?
This is the most common question I get, and the answer depends entirely on your gear. You need to check the amp draw of your fish finder and any other devices. If your fish finder pulls 1 amp per hour and you have a 10Ah battery, you can theoretically run it for 10 hours. However, for lead-acid batteries, you should only use about 50% of the capacity to avoid damaging it, so that 10Ah battery really gives you 5 hours of safe runtime. With a lithium battery, you can often use 80-100% of the rated capacity, so that same 10Ah lithium pack could give you a full 8-10 hours. Always do the math for your specific setup before heading out.
Can I use a car battery in my kayak?
I strongly advise against using a typical car starting battery. They are not designed for the “deep cycle” use that kayak electronics require. Draining them down will ruin them very quickly. They are also far too heavy and bulky for a kayak, negatively affecting stability and making transport a nightmare. Stick with a battery designed for marine or powersports applications, like a dedicated deep cycle or LiFePO4 battery.
What is the advantage of a lithium battery over a lead-acid one for kayaking?
The advantages are substantial. The biggest one for me is the weight savings; a lithium battery can be less than half the weight of a similar capacity lead-acid battery. They also last much longer, both on a single charge and over their entire lifespan, which can be thousands of cycles. They charge faster, can be discharged more deeply without damage, and maintain a consistent voltage output, which often makes your fish finder’s display brighter and clearer. For any serious angler, lithium is the way to go.
How should I store my kayak battery during the off-season?
Proper storage is key to making your battery last. First, make sure it’s fully charged before you put it away. A partially charged battery, especially a lead-acid one, will sulfate and lose capacity over time. Store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid locations that experience extreme temperature swings, like a hot shed or an uninsulated garage. For long-term storage, it’s a good idea to put it on a maintenance charger, or “tender,” that will keep it at an optimal charge level without overcharging it.
Do I need a special charger for a lithium 8V battery?
Yes, you absolutely do. Using a charger designed for lead-acid batteries on a lithium battery can be dangerous and will likely ruin it. Lithium batteries require a specific charging algorithm. Many quality lithium batteries come as a kit with a compatible charger, which is the safest and easiest route. If you’re buying one separately, always confirm that the charger is specifically made for LiFePO4 chemistry. This is non-negotiable for the safety and longevity of your best 8V battery for kayak fishing.