| Newport Vessels L-Series Transom Mount Electric Trolling Motor | Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Trolling Motor | GoPlus Electric Freshwater Trolling Motor |
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| Water Compatibility: Freshwater, saltwater, and brackish | Water Compatibility: Freshwater only | Water Compatibility: Freshwater, saltwater*, brackish* |
| Thrust: 62 lbs; 86 lbs | Thrust: Maximum thrust 30-55 lbs. depending on the model | Thrust: 46/55 lbs / 86 lbs |
| Voltage: 12 V (62 lbs); 24 V (86 lbs) | Voltage: 12 volt | Voltage: 12 V (46/55 lbs) / 24 V (86 lbs) |
| Speed Control: 5 forward; 3 reverse | Speed Control: 5 forward speeds, 3 reverse speeds | Speed Control: 5 forward; 3 reverse |
| Control Type: Hand-steer | Control Type: Hand | Control Type: Hand-steer |
| Mount Type: Transom | Mount Type: Transom mount | Mount Type: Transom |
| Shaft Length: 40” | Shaft Length: 30", 36", 42" | Shaft Length: 36” |
| Shaft Material: Fiberglass | Shaft Material: indestructible composite shaft | Shaft Material: Fiberglass |
| Propeller Type: 3 Blade (large) | Propeller Type: Power prop (includes washer, nut, and prop pin) | Propeller Type: 2-blade |
| Battery Capacity: Variable (50+ Ah recommended) | Battery Capacity: 110AH recommended | Battery Capacity: Variable |
| Maximum Amp Draw: 58A (62 lbs); 48A (86 lbs) | Maximum Amp Draw: 30-52 amps/hour, depending on the model | Maximum Amp Draw: 50 Amp |
| Warranty: 2-year limited warranty | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty on composite shaft; limited two-year warranty on entire product | Warranty: 90 days |
| Spot Lock: No | Spot Lock: No | Spot Lock: No |
| Fish Finder Connectivity: None | Fish Finder Connectivity: No | Fish Finder Connectivity: No |
| Best Price (Amazon) | Best Price (Amazon) Best Price (Bass Pro) | Best Price (Amazon) |
OVERALL VALUE
For outstanding value at an affordable price, the Newport Vessels Saltwater motor can't be beaten. Despite costing under $200, you still get 30 lbs of ample thrust on a lightweight 10 lb package.
The Saltwater punches far above its price tag thanks to smart composite construction and a thoughtfully designed prop. It doesn't feel cheap or under-powered. When every dollar counts, this little motor packs a punch.
SUFFICIENT PERFORMANCE
While cheap trolling motors often compromise on power, the Minn Kota Endura C2 still provides a robust 55 lbs of thrust in its highest model. This allows moving larger boats without being underpowered.
Quiet operation, 5 speed settings, and a decent composite shaft mean you aren't making big performance tradeoffs just to save money. The Endura C2 focuses budget dollars where they count.
BUILD QUALITY
Many bargain motors cut corners on materials and durability. But the GoPlus Electric Freshwater retains remarkably solid construction given its affordable price.
The GoPlus boasts a tough composite shaft, reinforced head, and robust mount unlikely to be found on other budget options. This ensures it will hold up season after season. Don't settle for flimsy when buying inexpensive.
You don't need to spend a fortune to enhance your fishing and boating adventures. Securing an affordable trolling motor just takes knowing what matters most.
The number one priority is overall value - does the motor provide useful performance and well-designed construction given its inexpensive price tag? Avoid anything that feels flimsy or under-powered.
Thrust should still be sufficient for basic boating needs, even if not up to premium standards. Anything under 30 pounds will leave small boats underpowered. Quiet, smooth operation is also important for budget models.
Durability cannot be compromised too much - insist on decent shaft construction, waterproofing, and reinforced mounts. Check reviews to avoid options prone to rapid breakdowns. Warranty coverage provides peace of mind.
Balance expectations and select based on great value, not the cheapest price. The right inexpensive trolling motor can unlock fishing access without breaking the bank if you apply wisdom when making your choice.
The first priority is getting the most for your money. Seek out motors that pack useful power and thoughtful design despite a budget price.
Avoid cheap-feeling parts that seem flimsy. Thoughtful composite construction prevents cutting corners. Just don't expect premium features and performance.
Let value be your guiding light to avoid money pits requiring constant repairs and upgrades. The best bargains feel well-built.
While expectations need adjustment, you still want usable power and decent runtime from a cheap trolling motor.
Look for at least 30 pounds of thrust for small boats and 55+ for larger vessels. Quiet, cool operation prevents frustrating breakdowns.
Test lower speeds for sufficient control authority. While not luxurious, performance should meet basic needs.
It's tempting for budget brands to install inadequate materials and components prone to rapid failure.
But the best values retain surprisingly robust construction like composite shafts, reinforced mounts, and waterproofing where it matters most.
Avoid thin metal collars around shafts that quickly bend and cheap plastic heads that crack easily. Insist on durable design.
Don't abandon your boating dreams just because trolling motor prices make you groan. Excellent budget-friendly options exist without totally compromising performance and quality.
Let value be your guide, not the cheapest models with flimsy construction. Carefully balance price, design, durability and power when seeking affordable trolling motor adventures!
Inexpensive 12 or 24 volt marine batteries are ideal for powering budget-friendly trolling motors. Small 12V batteries paired with low-thrust motors provide sufficient power at low cost. For more powerful cheap motors, wire two 12V batteries together for 24V setups. Use a dedicated deep cycle battery instead of dual-purpose to extend runtime. Properly fuse all connections and don't run other accessories off the trolling motor battery.
Don't expect advanced features, but the controller should still be ergonomic and intuitive. Tillers should adjust for comfort and offer smooth steering. Foot pedals with proportional control provide better low-end responsiveness. Avoid jerky, awkward controls prone to rapid wear and tear. You want a smooth, reliable user experience even at low price points.
Cheap trolling motors typically come in either transom mount or bow mount options. Transom mounts position the motor in the rear for simplified installation. Bow mounts enable better forward thrust from the front. Consider your boat size and weight balance when deciding between bow vs transom mounting options. Kayaks do best with compact transom mounts. Larger boats benefit from bow mounting power.
