To improve your fishing experience and increase your chances of landing a trophy fish, get one of the best spot lock trolling motors. The spot lock feature will help you move the boat to where you want exactly.
Regardless of whether you’re fishing close to the shore for muskie, trout, or walleye; or deep water fishing for tuna and salmon, you’ll see how accurate a trolling motor with a spot lock feature is when the system is activated.
We may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you when you buy through links on our website.
Learn more about our Amazon affiliate program
Table of Contents
Best Trolling Motors with Spot Lock
We’ve handpicked the electric spot lock trolling motors that will help enhance your fishing experience.
1. Newport Vessels Electric Trolling Motor
The best saltwater trolling motor with spot-lock is hands-down the Newport Vessels trolling motor. It’s not only the most affordable and reliable trolling motor perfect for small boats, but it’s also the most recommended for inflatable boats, dinghies, kayaks, and tenders.
So, what makes it a good buy? It’s its core specifications and unique features! Many trolling motors with the spot lock feature don’t have a reliable battery meter. But, this one comes with a five-point LED battery meter that’s built into its head, which provides an accurate read of its battery life.
This is essential if you want to ensure you don’t get stuck on the water when the battery drains. This trolling motor is also built to last even when used in saltwater thanks to its solid protection from rust and corrosion.
Of course, speed is one of the core functions you’ll consider. During the speed test, the Newport Vessels motor had an impressive performance (4 mph, which is the efficient cruising speed).
2. Haswing Black Cayman Trolling Motor
Haswing Black Cayman is also worth considering if you’re looking for a trolling motor that you can take on both salt and fresh bodies of water. For a trolling motor, it’s quite powerful with a smooth and quiet operation. With its solid material construction and the precise control that it promises to deliver, it’s one that you can rely on for years.
The 12v 55lbs motor comes with an energy-efficient battery for a full day of fishing. It’s also worth mentioning that the motor has lower consumption of battery power compared to other units on the market. It has variable speeds, which allows you to key in the speed you prefer.
This ensures improved control and better precision. The cruise control feature of the trolling motor helps maintain the boat at your preferred speed. Remote control can be used in accelerating and decelerating the speed of the motor while you focus on fishing.
Nevertheless, there’s a need to manually correct the direction of the winds and currents are strong. Should you want your vessel to reverse while in cruise, simply rotate the trolling motor to 180 degrees.
3. Minn Kota Riptide Saltwater Trolling Motor
A list of the best spot lock trolling motors isn’t complete without the Minn Kota spot lock trolling motor. It features a digital maximizer, which helps achieve five times the running time for every charge.
The digital maximizer includes a variable speed adjustment setting, so you can dial your preferred speed and power. It doesn’t only conserve the battery, it also allows you to spend more time on the water.
Another cool feature of this trolling motor is its iPilot GPS system for trolling, which makes use of GPS in recording paths, setting spot-locks, steering, positioning the boat, and controlling speed. There’s more: this trolling motor also has Autopilot for automatic navigation of a vessel in the exact direction you want.
Simply move the motorhead towards the direction that you want, and activate the autopilot. The feature corrects waves, winds, and currents. To provide the user with the best value, the trolling motor is also mobile app-compatible. You’ll be able to control your trolling motor from your Apple or Android device.
4. MotorGuide 940700160 Xi3 Wireless Trolling Motor
If you have been kayak fishing for a while, you may have heard of the famous MotorGuide trolling motor with spot lock. The Xi3 of MotorGuide is well-known because it’s a reliable and affordable option for kayaks and pontoons.
If you’re on the lookout for a powerful yet silent trolling motor to use on your fishing adventures but your budget is limited, the Xi3 motor is worth taking into serious consideration. Not many trolling motors can compare to its durability and reliability.
It’s built with a purpose-driven design, added with all the necessary features to provide a straightforward, smooth and comfortable operation. The Xi3 has a wireless feature to ensure smooth and easy control over the motor’s operation. A foot pedal will also let you transition if you want to stop using the remote.
As it’s equipped with the latest GPS system, you can enjoy advanced precision navigation. Apart from that, the trolling motor for pontoon boats has a digitalized management system for managing the battery. As for its installation, no expert knowledge or skill is necessary as it’s pretty easy and self-explanatory to use.
5. Parkho Haswing Electric Trolling Motor
The Haswing 12v trolling motor is one of the most sought-after trolling motors. Fortunately, there are many sellers you can buy from. The Parkho Store sells the unit complete with the necessary accessories such as the quick release, foot control, and remote control.
We can’t stress enough how tough and solid its material construction is as it’s able to handle whatever nature throws at it!
Its cast aluminum will stand up to abuse while the electronics encased are well-shielded. You can expect the motor to serve you over a long period of time and still have sufficient protection not just from water, but also from dust and all other contaminants.
It pays to know that this motor punches above its own weight class. It has a 54″ aluminum alloy shaft that works incredibly well for various transom heights. It also has a 12v motor as well which can produce 55 lbs. of thrust. This makes it ideal for relatively strong winds and currents.
6. Aquos Haswing Black Cayman Trolling Motor
If your boat weighs more than 2750 lbs., you’ll need a stronger trolling motor. In such a case, the Aquos Haswing will be the better option for you.
The larger motor has more voltage, resulting in more power for your propeller. As it also has a spot lock feature, it dramatically increases the chance of you landing more fish in the sea or any body of water.
Just like its 12v 55lb thrust counterpart, the 24v 80lbs trolling motor is built with a quality cast aluminum that provides immense strength and durability. The motor’s construction can withstand the harsh effects of saltwater while promoting longevity. As for the propeller, it’s built with three shock-resistant blades.
It’s important to note that cruising is comfortable and convenient with this trolling motor as it comes with a wireless foot pedal. It’s safe to say this is the best anchor lock trolling motor for you if you have a bigger boat and you want the option created with your comfort in mind.
7. Watersnake Assault Trolling Motor
Despite being lesser-known in the industry, Watersnake has managed to create a trolling motor that exceeded everyone’s expectations. This trolling motor is as great as the ones from more established brands, if not better!
Why? Firstly, this trolling motor was created by an angler for all anglers. That being said, anyone can use it, including those who aren’t active anglers. Whether you enjoy powering a boat upriver, exploring the local lake, or offshore fishing, you’ll find the trolling motor a great fit for your boating preference.
This trolling motor comes with 2 and 3 blade replacement kits for the propeller, quick release brackets, and replacement remote controls.
It’s designed to work on almost all kinds of boats. Its versatility and performance are impressive as it offers great maneuverability and control. If you’re operating a smaller boat, this will get the job done right.
8. Garmin Force Trolling Motor
Garmin Force Trolling Motor isn’t just powerful; it’s also efficient! It’s a must-have if you want a high-powered trolling motor. It doesn’t only help you travel to several fishing grounds, it also does so quietly. What’s even better is it’s capable of standing up to moderate winds and currents.
This motor is efficient as it delivers the same exact thrust as a motor running at 36v even when it operates at 24v. For steering the powerful motor, a wireless foot pedal can be used. You have the option of operating it wirelessly using batteries or you can also install the hardware.
The hand-held remote is included in the package, which is water-resistant. It has a full-color crystal-clear display that’s readable even when the sun is brightly shining. The remote also has an advanced point-go gesture steering.
To ensure your convenience while fishing, the feature, Chartplotter, lets you connect it to the trolling motor to create fishing tracks and routes as you fish.
How to Choose the Best Spot Lock Trolling Motors
If you want to ensure you have the best fishing experience, consider these crucial factors before you make a purchase:
Voltage
From the reviews above, you’re aware that electric trolling motors come in 12v, 24, and even 36v power systems. The voltage shows the battery power which the trolling motor requires.
A 12v power system in a trolling motor is the easiest and cheapest to run. The voltage works perfectly for a boat that’s 16 ft long and has up to 55 lbs. of thrust. A 12v battery’s shortcoming is it lacks the staying power and thrust that other trolling motor systems provide.
As for a 24v trolling motor, it’s powered by two separate 12v batteries. The 36v is powered by three 12v batteries. They enable you to be on the water for a longer period as they draw fewer amps and have more thrust.
A boat that’s over 6 ft in length can use a 24v or 36v trolling motor. A boat with 68 to 80 lbs. of thrust will require two 12v batteries while a boat with 101 to 112 lbs. of thrust will need three 12v batteries.
Thrust
Another crucial element to consider when choosing between the best spot lock trolling motors is the thrust. The amount of strength or power that’s required to propel a boat is the thrust.
It can be calculated using the pounds of water that are pushed by a vessel. Since there’s a great chance you’ll come across high waves, windy days, and weedy conditions, you’ll need a trolling motor that has sufficient power.
If you have a larger boat, you’ll need more thrust from your trolling motor. A general rule of thumb is the heavier a vessel is, the more thrust is required. For every 100 lbs., at least 2 lbs. of thrust is necessary.
For this reason, get the heaviest weight of your boat when you calculate the thrust that you need. The heaviest weight for your boat is when it’s fully loaded with fuel, gear, and passengers. It’s also important to note that a GPS-equipped trolling motor needs sufficient thrust. A GPS trolling motor is built to keep a boat in a steady and fixed position.
You may be wondering if a higher thrust translates to more speed. Thrust isn’t the velocity. Instead, it’s the pulling force. A trolling motor with a higher thrust won’t help you achieve a higher speed but help with cruising without getting blown off course and anchoring the boat in a steady and fixed position.
Length of the Shaft
For optimum control of the vessel, the shaft length of a trolling motor has to be taken into consideration.
A shorter shaft will interfere with the prop submersion during rough conditions. A longer shaft than needed will also pose some issues when you’re in shallower water. As such, it’s important to determine the appropriate length of the trolling motor’s shaft.
To measure the length of the shaft suitable for your vessel, use the stern or bow’s height. A deep V boat needs a longer shaft while a canoe requires a shorter shaft.
In addition, the shaft has to be composite or stainless steel. The two materials will last longer even when exposed to constant shock and abuse.
Features
What typically sets the best spot lock trolling motors apart from each other are their features.
Trolling motors have become more advanced these days, hence why it’s worth checking if a trolling motor you’re eyeing has some or all of the following added features:
Built-In Gauge for the Battery
A trolling motor that comes with a built-in battery gauge in its housing will let you check the exact level of power the battery has so you’re aware of how long it’s going to last on water.
This is an essential feature as it will ensure you won’t get stranded away in water. Digital display ”“ a digital display on a trolling motor will have readouts on your current depth and speed.
Although it will result in a more expensive trolling motor, a digital display will be able to help you locate the best fishing grounds.
Self-Directional System
A self-directional trolling motor will be perfect for you if you want feet and hands-free options to operate a motor. The motor itself will make use of GPS coordinates to steer along depth contours and shorelines.
This won’t only translate to more time for you to fish, you’ll also have a motor that can cruise a straighter line regardless of the weather conditions.
Smart Remote Control
You can operate a trolling motor using your RC unit or smartphone. The smart remote control feature can also record, lock, and retrace fishing spots while controlling your speed and steering your vessel with the use of GPS.
If your budget allows, you’ll appreciate how convenient it’s to have a smart remote control from your trolling motor.
Saltwater Compatibility
If you intend to use your trolling motor on saltwater, the unit you purchase must state clearly in the description that it’s for saltwater use. As you may already know, salt water is corrosive and will require more durable materials.
Fortunately, the trolling motors we listed above are all built with heavy-duty, premium-grade alloys.
Not just that, they’re also coated with zinc. Your trolling motor has to have a sacrificial anode that’s fixed to its prop to ensure the motor will last a lot longer.
Take note: should you decide to get a trolling motor intended for freshwater and you take it in saltwater, it’s going to void your warranty.
Mounting of the Trolling Motor
How will you mount the trolling motor on your boat?
Your options are the following:
- Bow mount
- Engine mount
- Transom mount
The most popular and common type is the bow mount trolling motor. This is because pulling instead of pushing a boat makes it easier to maneuver on the water. It often comes with a more advanced steering feature e.g. the GPS anchoring.
If what you want is the cheaper option and/or you prefer not to have anything on the bow, a transom mount trolling motor will be the better choice for you. A lot of experienced anglers like this type for its simplicity, especially as it steers similar to an outboard.
As for an engine mount trolling motor, it’s fixed to an outboard motor’s cavitation plate. There’s no need for deploying or stowing it. It’s remotely controlled and will steer together with your outboard.
Conclusion
So, which should you get from the best spot lock trolling motors?
It can be tough to make a choice as they are all great and many factors are involved from the budget, boat size, and more. But, out of all the trolling motors we’ve reviewed, the best option for a small to medium-sized boat is the Newport Vessels Electric Trolling Motor.
It’s the best hands-off spot lock trolling motor and it’s absolutely easy to set up and use. What’s more, it has all the essential features you would want your trolling motor to have!
If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be happy to know that it comes with a reasonable price as well. Although it’s not the cheapest trolling motor with spot lock, it pays off for itself over time as you get more catch and more uses out of it. What’s more, you can operate it in both fresh and saltwater!
Leave a Reply