Selecting the Right Trolling Motor Battery

Lithium batteries have significantly improved the trolling motor game. As a result, the decision to go lithium for your next set of batteries is an easy one. Picking out exactly which lithium battery might not be quite as easy.  

Between manufacturer recommendations, lithium battery marketing, and your friend next door telling you about his new setup, things can feel overwhelming.  

Here at Astro Lithium, we want to make that process easy for you as we break down the different demands for trolling motors of all sizes.  

12-Volt Trolling Motors 

The smallest commercially produced trolling motors operate on 12 volts. These trolling motors are generally used on kayaks and small jon boats. They are great for fishing in small lakes and ponds that do not produce strong currents or have a lot of grass to cut through. Below is a chart of recommendations for Astro Lithium batteries for corresponding 12 volt trolling motors.  

24-Volt Trolling Motors 

The next step in trolling motors is 24 volts. These trolling motors are commonly found in bass boats and smaller center console boats. They are a great combination of power and efficiency without jumping up to a 36-volt system.  

36-Volt Trolling Motors 

The biggest in the bunch are the 36-volt trolling motors. These are for the hardcore fishing enthusiasts who routinely chop through the grass or hold a spot in a strong current. You will find that most professional anglers are running 36-volt systems regardless of the type of boat, from bass fishing all the way up to 40’ center consoles.  

Multiple Batteries in Series vs. Single Battery? 

One of the most frequent questions we are asked is what is the difference between running multiple batteries in series to achieve 24V or 36V versus using a single battery. For example, should I have three 12V 100Ah batteries or a single 36V 100Ah battery for my trolling motor?  

The answer is truly a personal preference. From a performance standpoint, there is no difference. Inside a lithium battery case are dozens of smaller individual cells that are already run together in series to create a larger voltage, whether it be 12 or 36 volts. So, when you take three batteries and tie them together in series, you are simply doing the same thing that is already done inside a single 36-volt battery.  

What are the advantages of each choice? We have outlined a few of these for you here.  

Our lithium batteries are great for anything with a trolling motor, from kayaks fishing in a stream to 40’ center consoles fishing the continental shelf on an overnight trip. Both can benefit from the superior performance of Astro Lithium batteries. If you have additional questions about which battery is right for you, just reach out and let us know.