When it comes to powering your kayak trolling motor, the choice of battery is crucial. It not only affects the performance and durability of your motor but also determines how long you can stay on the water without worrying about running out of power. Two popular options on the market are the LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) and Lead-Acid batteries.

In this blog post, we will dive into the details of both batteries, comparing their features, pros, and cons, to tell why LiFePO4 Lithium battery is best for Kayak trolling motor.

What Is A Kayak Trolling Motor?

A kayak trolling motor is a small electric motor that can be mounted on a kayak to provide propulsion. It is used to assist with paddling or to allow for hands-free operation of the kayak. Trolling motors typically have adjustable speed settings and are powered by batteries. They are commonly used by anglers for fishing as they allow for easier maneuverability and navigation on the water.

Kayak trolling motors typically run on a standard 12V marine battery.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Kayak Trolling Motor Battery 

Amp Hour (AH) Rating

The AH rating indicates the capacity of the battery, which determines how long it will last on a single charge. Higher AH ratings mean longer battery life. Choose a battery with an AH rating that suits your needs, considering factors such as the size and weight of your kayak, the duration of your trips, and the power requirements of your trolling motor.

To better understand battery capacity, let's clarify the concept of Amp Hour (AH) rating. If you have a battery with a rating of 100 Amp Hours, it means that it can provide 100 amps of power for one hour. However, the actual duration of battery life will depend on the power draw of your motor. For instance, if your motor only draws 50 amps, the battery will last for approximately 2 hours.

It's essential to consider that power draw can vary based on factors such as motor speed and operating conditions. For instance, if you are traveling at full speed against a strong current, your motor will likely draw more amps compared to when you're moving at a slower speed downstream.

In most cases, a 100Ah battery is sufficient for trolling motor setups. However, if you plan on taking longer trips, have a heavier kayak, or need to travel longer distances against strong currents, your motor might draw more power, requiring a battery with a higher Amp Hour rating. In that case, you can consider connect the batteries in sereis or parallel. 

LiTime 12V 100Ah TM LiFePO4 battery is specially designed for trolling motor. With low temperature protection, weights only 22 lbs. This 12V 100Ah TM LiFePO4 deep cycle battery is a real user-driven innovation, began with 30000+ user research to identify the needs and preferences of our customers in the marine field. From there, LiTime R&D team of experts utilized cutting-edge technology and advanced materials to make it happen: Innovative upgrades provide increased instantaneous load capacity and improved shock resistance, ensuring reliable performance for your trolling motors even in rough waters. It's upgraded for trolling motors, but ready for more adventures.

Weight

Since you'll be carrying the battery on your kayak, weight is an important consideration. Opt for a lightweight battery that won't add too much extra weight to your kayak, making it easier to handle and transport.

Size and Portability

Consider the physical dimensions of the battery to ensure it fits well within your kayak and doesn't interfere with your paddling or angling experience. Compact and portable batteries are more convenient to handle and store. If you care much about size and weight, LiTime 12V 100Ah Mini may be your better choice. Weighting at only 19 lbs, it also has compact design and upgraded-BMS that can be installed in any direction, even up side down. 

Maintenance Requirements

Different battery types have varying maintenance requirements. Lead-Acid batteries typically require more maintenance, such as regular checks on water levels and periodic recharging, while Lithium-Ion (LiFePO4) batteries require less maintenance. Consider the level of maintenance you're willing to undertake and choose a battery accordingly.

Lifespan

The lifespan of a battery refers to how long it will last before it needs to be replaced. LiFePO4 batteries generally have a longer lifespan compared to Lead-Acid batteries. Assess your long-term needs and budget to decide on a battery with an appropriate lifespan.

Remember to also consider safety aspects, such as the battery's built-in safety features and compatibility with your trolling motor. Additionally, check the manufacturer's recommendations for proper charging techniques and storage to ensure the longevity and performance of the battery.

Types of Kayak Trolling Motor Batteries: LiFePO4 vs. Lead-Acid

When it comes to kayak trolling motor batteries, there are two popular options: lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries. Let's examine the features of each.

1.Flooded Lead Acid

Flooded lead acid batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that is commonly used as a kayak trolling motor battery. These batteries are known for their affordability, reliability, and proven performance over many years.

Flooded lead acid batteries consist of lead plates immersed in a liquid electrolyte solution, typically sulfuric acid. The liquid electrolyte allows for the flow of electricity within the battery. These batteries are usually more affordable compared to other types of batteries.

One of the advantages of flooded lead acid batteries is their ability to handle high current draws, making them suitable for powering kayak trolling motors. They can deliver consistent power over extended periods of time. Additionally, flooded lead acid batteries have a wide operating temperature range, allowing them to function well in various weather conditions. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind with flooded lead acid batteries.

Drawbacks of Flooded Lead-Acid Battery

They require regular maintenance, including checking and topping up electrolyte levels, cleaning terminals, and ensuring proper ventilation when charging. They may also be more prone to self-discharge compared to other battery types, so it's important to monitor their charge levels when not in use.

When selecting a flooded lead acid battery for your kayak trolling motor, consider factors such as the Amp Hour (AH) rating, weight, size, and portability. Higher AH ratings provide longer run times, but they also increase the weight and size of the battery. Be sure to choose a battery that fits your kayak setup and meets your specific power requirements. Overall, flooded lead acid batteries are a cost-effective choice for kayak trolling motor applications, offering sufficient performance and reliability for most users. However, it's important to properly maintain and care for these batteries to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.

2.AGM Batteries

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) kayak trolling motor batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that offers some advantages over traditional flooded lead-acid batteries. AGM batteries use a design where the electrolyte is absorbed in a fiberglass mat, which eliminates the need for a free-flowing liquid electrolyte.

Advantages of AGM

• Maintenance-free operation: AGM batteries are sealed, which means they do not require regular maintenance like adding distilled water.
• Lower self-discharge rates: AGM batteries have lower self-discharge rates compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, which means they can hold their charge for longer periods when not in use.
• High current draw capacity: AGM batteries can handle high current draws, making them suitable for powering kayak trolling motors.
• Vibration and shock resistance: AGM batteries are designed to be more rugged and resistant to vibrations and shocks, making them ideal for outdoor use.
• Safer operation: AGM batteries are generally safer to use because they do not emit fumes or require ventilation.

Disadvantages of AGM

• Higher cost: AGM batteries are generally more expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries, which may be a drawback for those on a tight budget.
• Limited availability: Depending on your location, it may be more challenging to find AGM batteries compared to lead-acid batteries, which are more widely available.
• Heavier than lithium batteries: While AGM batteries are lighter than standard lead-acid batteries, they are still heavier than lithium batteries, which can impact portability.

3.Lithium Battery

Lithium batteries are considered to be a more advanced battery type and are increasingly being used as a replacement for lead-acid batteries in various applications. They operate by moving between a negative and positive electrode during the charging process. This unique charging cycle allows them to charge at a faster rate and provide a consistent power output from full to empty.

Pros

• Higher Energy Density: Lithium batteries have a higher energy density than lead-acid batteries, allowing them to store more energy in a smaller and lighter package.
• Longer Lifespan: Lithium batteries generally have a longer lifespan compared to lead-acid batteries, which means they can endure more charge and discharge cycles before needing to be replaced.
• Faster Charging Times: Lithium batteries can be charged at a faster rate than lead-acid batteries, reducing downtime and allowing you to get back on the water quickly. Learn more on how to charge LiFePO4 lithium battery.
• Lighter Weight: Due to their high energy density, lithium batteries are significantly lighter than lead-acid batteries, making them more portable and easier to handle.

Cons

• Higher Upfront Cost: Lithium batteries tend to be more expensive upfront compared to lead-acid batteries, which may be a significant consideration for some users.

What Battery is Best for a Trolling Motor?

Choosing the best battery for a trolling motor depends on your specific needs and priorities. However, in many cases, lithium batteries are considered the top choice due to their numerous advantages.

Lithium batteries have higher energy density, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package compared to lead-acid batteries. This increased energy density translates to longer run times for your kayak trolling motor.

Additionally, lithium batteries generally have a longer lifespan, enduring more charge and discharge cycles before needing replacement. They also charge at a faster rate, reducing downtime and allowing you to get back on the water quickly.

The lightweight nature of lithium batteries makes them highly portable and easier to handle. This advantage is especially important for kayak users who value maneuverability and want to minimize the weight of their equipment.

How Long Will a 100Ah Lithium Battery Run a Kayak Trolling Motor?

The runtime of a 100Ah lithium battery for a kayak trolling motor depends on various factors, including the motor's power consumption and the speed at which it is operated. To estimate the runtime, you need to determine the amp draw of the trolling motor and divide the battery's capacity by that draw. Let's assume your trolling motor draws 25 amps at maximum speed. In this case, dividing the battery's capacity by the draw will give us an estimation:

100Ah / 25A = 4 hours

So, with a 100Ah lithium battery and a trolling motor drawing 25 amps at maximum speed, you can expect around 4 hours of runtime. Keep in mind that this is just an estimated duration, and actual runtime could vary depending on the conditions and how the motor is operated. It's also important to consider that constantly operating a trolling motor at maximum speed may not provide the maximum runtime, as lower speeds tend to draw less current and could potentially prolong the battery life.

How Many Years Do Trolling Motor Batteries Last?

As you may know, there are several types of trolling motor batteries available. The most commonly used type is the Lead Acid Wet Cell battery. This battery is known for its affordability and consists of compartments filled with a mixture of water and sulfuric acid. With proper maintenance, a Lead Acid Wet Cell battery can last around 3 years or even longer depending on usage and other factors.

On the other hand, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries have gained popularity due to their impressive lifespan. These batteries can handle anywhere from 3000 to 5000 charge cycles. Some high-quality LiFePO4 batteries like LiTime have the life cycles around 4000-15000. To put it into perspective, if you were to go fishing all day for around 300 days each year, you would only need to charge it once a day. This means that a LiFePO4 battery could potentially last you 10 to 15 years or even more.

The longevity of a LiFePO4 battery is remarkable compared to other battery types. Its ability to endure numerous charge cycles makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a long-lasting battery solution for their trolling motor.

Can I Use Normal Car Battery for Kayak Trolling Motor

Using a regular car battery for your trolling motor can pose a risk to both the motor and the battery. Unlike a deep cycle battery, which is designed to handle extended discharges without suffering from corrosion, a car battery is not built to withstand being discharged between 50% to 80% without incurring damage.

The primary purpose of a car battery is to provide a strong burst of power to start the engine. It is not intended to deliver a lower current over an extended period of time. Additionally, a car battery is not designed to be regularly drained of a significant portion of its charge and then recharged.

On the other hand, a deep-cycle marine battery may not possess the same starting power as a car battery, but it compensates for this by being able to steadily supply power to the trolling motor throughout an entire day or even a week. Furthermore, it can endure being discharged to a greater extent without suffering from corrosion (which would likely occur with a car battery).

For reliable and efficient operation of your trolling motor, it is strongly recommended to use a deep cycle battery specifically designed for marine applications. These batteries are better suited to meet the power demands and withstand the conditions associated with trolling motors. They come in various sizes and capacities to match the requirements of your kayak trolling motor.

Read on what size battery for trolling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, each types of kayak battery has its own features, from all the types, LiFePO4 lithium battery is the most recommended for its higher energy density, lightweights, longer lifespan and so on.

LiTime is committed to providing cost-effective LiFePO4 batteries to offer new energy solutions for our customers. If you have any questions, please contact us via email service@litime.com.