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8 Frequently Asked Questions About Trolling Motor Batteries

Mike Smith
Mike Smith
—
29/11/2024

Choosing the right battery is crucial for your boat, especially when it comes to your trolling motor. The right battery can make the difference between a smooth fishing trip and interruptions due to battery issues. Your bass boat needs dependable marine batteries for both starting and running. However, not all batteries are the same—some are designed for starting the engine, while others are meant specifically for powering your trolling motor.

If you're curious about trolling motor batteries, we’ve gathered some common questions about lithium batteries for trolling motors.

What Type of Battery Does Trolling Motor Use: Deep Cycle or Starting?

Trolling motors use deep cycle batteries. These batteries are made to give a steady flow of power over a long time. They can be drained and recharged multiple times without getting damaged, which is perfect for the continuous use of trolling motors during long fishing trips.

However, marine staring batteries are designed to provide a quick burst of energy to start engines. They aren’t meant for deep discharges and can get damaged if used for too long. That’s why they’re not a good fit for trolling motors.

starter vs deep cycle battery

Are Lithium Trolling Motor Batteries Worth the Investment?

If you're a boater looking for high performance, long runtime, and durability, a LiFePO4 trolling motor battery is definitely worth the investment.

Lithium batteries are lightweight, have a high energy density, and outlast traditional lead-acid batteries, making them an excellent choice for powering trolling motors. While they might cost more upfront, the advantages in runtime, lower maintenance, and overall performance make them a great option for serious anglers and boating enthusiasts.

What Kind of Lithium Batteries Are Used in Trolling Motors?

Lithium batteries are ideal for trolling motors thanks to their high energy density, light weight, and long lifespan. When choosing lithium batteries for your trolling motor, it's important to consider voltage, capacity, and performance.

Most trolling motors run on 12 volts, and 12V lithium trolling motor batteries are widely available and commonly used. It's essential to match the battery's capacity with your motor's power needs. Higher capacity batteries will provide longer runtimes, so you can spend more time on the water without worry.

A typical 100 amp hour battery can power high-amp trolling motors for a full day, reducing the chances of your battery dying early—something that often happens with lead-acid batteries. For those with 24-volt and 36-volt trolling motors, lithium batteries offer even more power and extended runtimes. These batteries usually combine multiple lithium cells to achieve the necessary voltage. Always check your manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure compatibility with your trolling motor system.

How Many Trolling Motor Batteries Do I Need?

The number of batteries you need depends on the voltage of your trolling motor. LiTime offers lithium batteries in 12-Volt, 24-Volt, and 36-Volt options. If you have a 12-Volt trolling motor, you can choose from various 12-Volt batteries. For a 24-Volt motor, you can either use two 12-Volt batteries in series or one 24-Volt battery. If you have a 36-Volt motor, you can use three 12-Volt batteries in series or a single 36-Volt battery.

Below is the size of trolling motor battery reference.

size of battery for trolling motor

How Long Will a 24 volt Battery Last on a Trolling Motor?

Several factors influence how long a 24V trolling motor battery lasts, including sea conditions, boat size, and even tidal changes. For a typical boat measuring 16 to 22 feet with a 24-volt trolling motor battery, you can generally expect about half a day's runtime.

LiTime 24V trolling motor batteries typically provide a runtime of five to seven hours on a single charge under optimal conditions. With a 24V 100Ah battery from LiTime, you can enjoy an even longer runtime of over eight hours.

What Kind of Charger Should I Use for my Lithium Batteries?

When choosing a charger for your deep cycle lithium batteries, it's important to use a charger specifically designed for lithium batteries.

For extra information about charging lithium battery, click the link to know more.

Do I Need to Charge My Trolling Motor Batteries after every use?

Lithium batteries are different from lead-acid batteries; they won’t get damaged if they stay partially charged for a while. Still, it’s a good idea to charge them after each use. This way, you’ll always have the longest runtime when you head out on your boat.

How Can I Charge The Trolling Motor Battery While on the Lake?

Charging your trolling motor battery while out on the water is possible if you have the right equipment and know-how. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  • Step 1: Make sure your boat has an onboard charger or a charger that works with your trolling motor battery. If you have lithium batteries, ensure your charger is compatible with LiFePO4 batteries.
  • Step 2: Connect the charger to the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Attach the positive cable to the positive terminal and the negative cable to the negative terminal.
  • Step 3: Use your onboard charger or a portable generator to power the charger. Check that the power source matches the charger’s voltage requirements.
  • Step 4: Keep an eye on the charging process. Most onboard chargers have indicators or displays that show the battery's charging status. Make sure the battery is charging at the right voltage and current levels.
  • Step 5: Once the battery is fully charged, disconnect the charger. Remove the cables in the correct order to avoid any hazards.

If you plan to spend a lot of time on the water, consider using a solar charger. They are relatively affordable and can slowly charge your batteries while you’re out on your boat.

Before heading out for the day, ensure your batteries are fully charged. This will give you more run time and peace of mind. Always follow safety precautions, avoid overcharging, and keep your battery cool, as high temperatures can reduce its performance. If your battery starts to overheat, move it to a cooler spot right away.

Mike Smith
Mike Smith
Mike Smith is a marine energy expert with 15+ years of experience and a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Stanford. Passionate about lithium battery integration, he also enjoys sailing and exploring coastal waters in his free time.

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