WaterNetic Main Logo

How to Charge a Trolling Motor Battery: Easy Guide for Maintaining Your Trolling Motor

If you’ve never used a trolling motor before, you may be unsure how to care for one. From how to charge a trolling motor battery to clean the battery connections, we’ll cover everything here. Trolling motor batteries come in a variety of varieties, so we’ll go through how to charge a trolling motor battery with some helpful tips and tricks in our discussion. This piece offers something for you, no matter how long or how little experience you have with trolling motors.

Trolling Motor

An outboard motor is quite similar to a trolling motor. It’s a complete package with an engine and propellers. The key distinction is that trolling motors are significantly smaller and are intended for use with smaller boats. They’re also electric, meaning they’re powered by batteries.

Anglers love trolling motors because they enable them to fish in places where an outboard motor would be impossible to reach. A trolling motor, for example, may be used to fish in shallow water or around docks and other obstructions.

Different Types of Batteries

There are different types of batteries used in trolling motors:

AGM Batteries

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are lead-acid batteries that utilize AGM technology. AGM batteries have the benefit of being more vibration and shock resistant than standard lead-acid batteries. The most common form of battery used in trolling motors is an AGM battery. They don’t need any care and have a lengthy lifespan. They’re also less prone to leak, which makes them ideal for trolling motors.

Gel Batteries

The electrolyte in gel batteries is an alternative to liquid electrolytes. Gel batteries have the benefit of having a lower leakage rate than standard lead-acid battery types. Trolling motors benefit from the fact that they are more resistant to vibration and shock. While AGM batteries utilize a glass mat to absorb water, gel batteries employ a gel instead. The gel acts as a barrier to keep the battery safe.

harge trolling motor batteries

Batteries with Wet Cells

The first rechargeable battery was a wet cell battery. Aviation, electric utilities, energy storage, and mobile phone towers are all popular places to find it. Lead-acid batteries with wet cells are the most prevalent. Electrolytes in liquid form are referred to as “wet cells” since they are used. As a result of their lower cost, wet cells are a more cost-effective option for lead-acid batteries.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are different from lead-acid batteries in that they employ lithium instead of lead. It has the benefit of being significantly lighter than lead-acid batteries. They’re also more vibration and shock-resistant, making them an excellent option for trolling motors.

Trolling Motor Batteries Durability

On a single charge, the typical trolling motor will operate for roughly three hours. If you plan on utilizing your trolling motor for extended periods of time, you might consider upgrading to a larger battery. When it comes to how long your trolling motor battery will survive, there are no hard and fast rules. It depends on the battery you have, how well you manage it, and a variety of other aspects.

The Most Effective Way to Charge a Trolling Motor Battery

A smart charger is a gadget that charges your battery by plugging it into an AC socket. Overcharging is prevented by the automatic shut-off mechanism included on most battery chargers. Battery chargers made exclusively for trolling motor batteries are available. These chargers will be set up to charge and maintain your battery properly.

Follow these instructions when you’re ready to charge your trolling motor battery:

  • Start by disconnecting the power supply from the motor.
  • Inspect the battery for leaks or damage.
  • Ensure that the terminals of the battery are clean.
  • Connect the positive (red) line from the charger to the battery’s positive connector.
  • Connect the negative (black) wire from the charger to the battery’s negative terminal.
  • Set the charger’s mode to “trickle charge” or “maintain.”
  • Activate the charger and let it operate until the battery is fully charged.
  • Turn off the charger and unhook the leads after the battery is completely charged.
  • Re-attach the battery’s lid.
  • Re-attach the trolling motor’s power source.

Fishing boats would be incomplete without a trolling motor. You can make sure your trolling motor is ready to go when you need it by charging and maintaining the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Your trolling motor battery may last a long time if you take care of it.

Video Credit- Minn Kota Motors

Portable Power Sources

Portable power supplies are an excellent method to keep your trolling motor battery charged while you’re out on the water. There are a variety of portable power sources to choose from, including:

Solar Chargers

Solar chargers are an excellent method to keep your trolling motor battery charged while you’re out on the water. The solar charger is one of the smart charger that charges your battery by harnessing the sun’s energy. They’re simple to use and safe for the environment. Solar chargers are available at most camping shops and online.

Generators

Generators are an excellent method to keep your trolling motor battery charged while you’re out on the water. Generators may either be utilized to directly charge your battery or to power an onboard battery charger.

Using a Portable Charger

Your trolling motor batteries may be recharged on the go using portable chargers. Portable chargers are available in a variety of styles and price points., both in terms of size and design. Specific kinds of batteries are required for some, while other types may be used with any battery.

When selecting a portable smart charger, you should consider the following factors:

  • The capacity of the battery being charged
  • The battery type you’re attempting to charge
  • How long you are willing to wait for the battery to charge

Fully Automatic vs. Manual Charging

When the battery is completely charged, fully automated chargers are meant to switch off automatically. Overcharging, which may harm the battery, is avoided. When the battery is completely charged, you must manually turn off the charger using a manual charger.

How to Properly Maintain a Trolling Motor Battery

  • Inspect the batteries for leakage or damage on a regular basis.
  • Check that the battery terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
  • In battery terminals, when not in use, keep the battery in a cool, dry area.
  • Even if you’re not using the trolling motor, keep the battery charged.
  • Charge and store the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Trolling Motor Battery Tips

  • Make an investment in a good battery charger.
  • If you are operating your trolling motor for a prolonged time, invest in a higher capacity battery.
  • When not in use, keep the battery in a cool, dry area.
  • Inspect the batteries for leakage or damage on a regular basis.
  • Charge and store the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

You can extend the life of your trolling motor battery and guarantee that it is always ready to go when you need it by following these guidelines.

Easy Way to charge a Trolling Motor Battery

Portable Generator Buying Tips

When it comes to purchasing a portable generator, there are a few considerations. Here’s a brief checklist to assist you in selecting the best generator for your needs:

  • Determine the required wattage.
  • Select the features you want.
  • Consider the unit’s size and weight.
  • Compare the pricing of various stores.

According to these guidelines, you will be able to choose the ideal portable generator for your requirements.

You may learn more about pontoon boats in this article.

Common Question (FAQs)

Do boat engines charge batteries while they are running?

The alternator on most boat engines charges the batteries while the engine is operating. It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual, however. A unique charging mechanism may be required for certain engines. The battery will charge when the boat is idling, but this is a somewhat inefficient method of charging the battery since the alternator must drive all of the electronics before charging the battery, so there isn’t much additional power source while idling, but there is some.

Can I use a car battery charger to charge my trolling motor battery?

Yes, you can charge your trolling motor battery using a vehicle battery charger. If you’re in a rush and don’t have access to a specialist trolling motor charger for batteries, you should use this method. Unlike trolling motor battery chargers, automobile battery chargers are meant to charge car batteries. Because trolling motor batteries need to be charged at a slower pace in the battery charging process, using a vehicle portable battery charger might harm the battery.

What is the difference between a fully automatic and manual battery charger?

When the battery is completely charged, fully automated chargers are meant to switch off automatically. Overcharging, which may harm the battery, is avoided. When the battery is completely charged, you must manually turn off the charger using a manual charger.

How long does it take to charge a trolling motor battery?

The size of the battery or battery power and the kind of charger you’re using will determine this. In around eight hours, a normal 12-volt battery may be completely charged. The battery, on the other hand, maybe completely charged in as little as two hours if you use a fast charger.

What is the best way to store a trolling motor battery?

A trolling motor battery should be kept in a cool, dry location. Even if you’re not using the trolling motor, you should keep the battery charged. Finally, charge and store the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Do solar chargers work in cloudy conditions?

Solar chargers function in overcast settings, although they are less efficient than in bright sunlight. It’s preferable to charge your trolling motor battery using a solar charger while the weather is sunny.

What exactly is a deep cycle battery?

A deep cycle battery is a kind of battery that may be recharged and drained repeatedly without causing any harm to the battery itself. A trolling motor’s battery is a deep cycle battery, which is intended for heavy-duty operation.

How to disconnect a boat battery?

As a boat owner, you should know how to remove the boat battery. For your safety and the safety of your boat’s electrical system, you should install a grounding system.

Turn off all of your boat’s lights and equipment before disconnecting a battery. Then identify the battery’s negative terminal. The “-” symbol is often used to identify the negative terminal. To complete the procedure, remove the battery’s negative lead. You may securely remove the battery from your boat after the negative connector has been unplugged.

how to charge trolling motor batteries while on lake

When should I replace my trolling motor batteries?

Your trolling motor batteries should be replaced every 3 to 5 years. The batteries in your trolling motor may need to be replaced more often if you use them frequently.

The battery in your trolling motor should be replaced if you notice it losing power or if it takes longer to charge. If the battery displays symptoms of deterioration, such as leaks or cracks, it should be replaced as well.

How do I dispose of a lead-acid battery?

Recycling lead-acid batteries are possible. In spite of this, you should not throw them out in the garbage. Go to an auto parts shop or local recycling facility with your lead-acid battery.

Can a trolling motor battery be overcharged?

Trolling motor batteries may, in fact, become too hot. When a battery is overcharged, it may limit its lifetime and harm it. Follow the manufacturer’s charging guidelines to prevent overcharging your battery.

How to charge a trolling motor battery with a solar panel?

Trolling motor batteries may be easily recharged using solar panels. Environmentally friendly and simple to use, they are a great option. Once you have connected the solar panel to your trolling motor battery, you can begin charging it with solar power. Place it in an area that gets a lot of sunlight. As long as the solar panel is in a sunny place, the battery will be charged by the sun. Afterward, unplug the solar panel from the battery to finish charging the battery to full capacity.

Can I charge the trolling motor batteries using the engine alternator?

Yes, you may use the engine alternator to charge the batteries in your trolling motor. However, charging trolling motor batteries, the battery should not be done while the engine is running. Damage to the battery and a shorter life lifetime might result from this.

To use the engine alternator to recharge the battery, first, remove the negative battery connector. Wait a few minutes before restarting the engine. Reconnect the battery’s negative terminal at this point. As long as the engine is running, the alternator will keep the battery charged. But before turning off the engine, let it run for a few minutes. This will provide enough time for the battery to reach its maximum charging capacity.

The most important things to remember:

  • It is recommended that you replace your trolling motor batteries every three to five years.
  • You may use a solar panel to charge trolling motor battery.
  • When charging the battery, do not operate the engine.
  • After a few minutes of idling, turn off the engine.

Make sure your trolling motor battery is constantly charged and ready to go by following these suggestions. It’s time to go out and play in the water! If you have any questions about how to properly maintain your trolling motor, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Recent Articles

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *