Best Trolling Motor For 12 Foot Aluminum Boat Of 2022: Ultimate Buying Guide

Yes, that's the short answer. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't. Although they might look similar, freshwater and saltwater trolling engines offer very different levels of corrosion prevention.
The superior protection and anticorrosion materials used in saltwater motors are not available for freshwater motors. These include stainless steel hardware and sacrificial Zinc anodes.
Even with the most effective corrosion prevention, saltwater trolling motors can still fail, or even have shorter lifespans if they are not properly maintained and cared for. The motor must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water after each use and kept indoors dry.

Saltwater fishermen often use freshwater trolling engine models. What is the real difference between saltwater and freshwater trolling motors? Saltwater trolling engines are made for greater corrosion resistance and usually include stainless steel hardware and sealed electrical connections. The manufacturer's warranty may be voided if a saltwater motor is used in saltwater. It is essential to rinse and clean any trolling motor after saltwater, especially if the model is designed for saltwater.

A trolling motor can be installed by anyone with a reasonable level of skill. We have some recommendations.
- Trolling motors are heavy and can require the assistance of a friend.
- Before you drill, make sure to measure.
- You must be very careful with your electric: Make sure you use the right gauge wire and have a circuit breaker.

- CoPilot wireless key fob controls speed and direction. You can purchase a CoPilot wireless pedal separately.
- AutoPilot acts as a cruise control. Point your motor in the right direction and at the speed you want, and AutoPilot will guide you.
- i-Pilot - A software-driven GPS control system, i-Pilot includes AutoPilot as well as CoPilot. It also offers new features like Spot-Lock or Record-A-Track.

It's simply how to set your motor into the water. The majority of boaters will do it manually, but a more recent "auto-deploy” technology allows the motor to automatically drop into the water at the push of a button. This is a very cool technology that has started to make waves in the boating community.

It really all comes down to individual preference. You can use either one, but it's up to you which trolling motor you prefer.
Transom mounted trolling motors have a longer history than the bow-mounted models. They are often found on small watercraft like Jon boats, canoes and inflatable rafts.
Although they are more costly, bow mount trolling motors 'pull through' the water better, provide more precise steering, control and speed. They also offer advanced features like foot control/hands free operation, autopilot, and foot control. Bolt-on brackets attach them. They are often seen on bass boats, where they can be used with no hands and offer superior maneuverability.

Yes, the short answer is "yes". However you might want to research how built-in GPS technology works in harsher environments. Anchor-point and plotted Navigation might be compromised by extreme weather or rough waters. You might consider brands that are known for their superior technical abilities if quality is important to you.

Two reasons are why we strongly recommend using circuit breakers:
- This is a cheap insurance policy that covers your motor against damage or loss.
- They are required by Coast Guard regulations.

We recommend going to the manufacturer's site if you have any concerns about where your trolling engine was made. You might not find all information about the manufacturer on some 3rd-party seller platforms. So, go directly to the source.

Trolling motor battery life span is determined by several factors. They will last for no less than 2 years if they are used frequently and hard. People who don't use the boats often may see their boat last three to four more years.
This is true only if the batteries are properly maintained and purchased with the correct type. Deep cycle marine batteries are best as they can be charged repeatedly. The largest possible marine battery is what you should consider. Water level in wet lead-acid battery must be monitored regularly. This task is eliminated by closed-cell batteries. After using the battery, it is important to charge them as quickly as possible. Although lithium batteries are better, they are too expensive.

Yes, sooner or later. While some freshwater trolling engines will withstand saltwater better than others, you'll still need to have a saltwater trolling engine if your intention is to use the motor in saltwater. Saltwater trolling motors are protected with electronics and aluminum coatings to resist rust and oxidation.