Choosing the Right Battery for Your Trolling Motor and Fish Finder

Choosing the Right Battery for Your Trolling Motor and Fish Finder

As a new boat owner, one of the first decisions you'll face is selecting the right battery for your trolling motor and fish finder. Whether you're fishing lakes or exploring other bodies of water, it's essential to choose a battery that meets your needs while offering reliability and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the best battery options and tips to help you make an informed decision.

1. Understanding Deep Cycle Batteries

For your 55lb thrust trolling motor, a deep cycle battery is your best bet. Deep cycle batteries are designed to be discharged and recharged repeatedly, making them ideal for trolling motors. Unlike starting batteries, which are designed for short bursts of high power, deep cycle batteries provide a steady flow of power over a long period, which is exactly what you need for extended fishing trips.

2. Choosing the Right Amp Hours (Ah)

For most trolling motors, a 12V deep cycle battery with a capacity of at least 100 amp-hours (Ah) will give you plenty of run time. A higher Ah rating means more capacity, allowing you to run your trolling motor for a longer period before needing to recharge. A 12V, 100Ah battery is a great starting point, but you might need to opt for a higher Ah rating if you plan on fishing for longer periods or using additional equipment, like a fish finder.

3. Isolating the Fish Finder Battery

While it’s tempting to run everything off a single battery, it’s a good idea to isolate your fish finder from your trolling motor battery. Fish finders generally require less power, and isolating the battery helps reduce electrical noise that could interfere with your sonar readings. A separate small 12V battery with a lower amp-hour rating (around 10Ah) will be sufficient for your fish finder. This ensures optimal performance for both your trolling motor and electronics.

4. AGM vs. Lithium vs. Flooded Batteries

There are different types of deep cycle batteries, and your choice will depend on factors like budget, weight, and longevity:

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): AGM batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, making them a popular choice for marine applications. They are durable, handle vibrations well, and last longer than flooded batteries. However, they tend to be more expensive.
• Lithium Batteries: Lithium batteries are lightweight and offer a longer lifespan compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. They’re a great option if you want to reduce weight on your boat, but they come with a higher price tag.
• Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries: These are the most affordable option and are a good choice for those on a budget. However, they require maintenance (like topping off with water) and don’t perform as well in cold weather.

5. The Importance of a Battery Charger

Once you’ve selected your battery, it’s crucial to have the right charger to keep it in good condition. Modern chargers allow you to select the battery type (lead-acid, AGM, Gel, or lithium) and can handle multiple banks if you’re running two batteries. Be sure to choose a charger that matches your battery type and capacity for optimal performance. Some brands, like Minn Kota, offer chargers with adjustable settings to match different battery types, ensuring you get the most out of your battery.

6. Planning for Battery Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your battery. Consider investing in a battery maintainer to keep the battery charged during the off-season. A quality maintainer can also help extend the lifespan of your battery by ensuring it remains at an optimal charge when not in use.

7. How Long Will the Battery Last?

If you're planning on running your trolling motor for several hours at a time, you may need to invest in a larger capacity battery or even two batteries. A single 100Ah battery will last for about 6-8 hours of continuous use, depending on the conditions and how heavily you use your motor. If you often fish for extended periods or in challenging conditions, it might make sense to opt for two batteries for increased run time.

8. Recommendations for New Boat Owners

If you're new to boating, don’t be afraid to experiment and ask questions. As one Reddit user mentioned, "Just keep learning and asking for advice, and soon you’ll know exactly what works best for your boat." You can check out boating forums, watch YouTube tutorials, and speak to other boaters to gather more insights. Over time, you’ll become more familiar with how your trolling motor and battery systems work, making it easier to troubleshoot and maintain your gear.

In conclusion, selecting the right battery for your trolling motor and fish finder is essential for having a smooth and enjoyable fishing experience. Consider factors like battery type, amp-hour rating, and whether you need a separate battery for your fish finder. With the right battery and maintenance plan, you’ll be able to enjoy long fishing trips without worrying about running out of power.