Best 12V Battery For Trolling Motor

HOW WE DECIDED

—- We Researched Every Product, We Review With Our Own

Our Top Pick: VMAX MR137-120 AGM Sealed Marine AGM Battery 12V 120AH

Our Research

• Researched Source: 35
• Hours Researched: 28
• Experts Interviewed: 21
• Consumers Review: 147

Why This Is Best?

1. Voltage: 12V
2. Crank Amps: 1740A
3. Cold Crank Amps: 900A
4. Reserve Capacity: 230
5. Vibration resistant: Yes
6. Mount capacity: Yes
7. Group Size: 31
8. Warranty: 1 Year

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Top Five 12V Trolling Motor Battery Comparison Data

Specification	Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST-M Dual Purpose Battery	VMAX MR137-120 AGM Sealed Battery	Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M	Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah  AGM SLA DEEP Cycle	Northstar NSB-AGM31M AGM Group 31 Marine Battery 1370MCA/1150CCA
Voltage [V]	12v	12V	12v	12v	12v
Crank Amps [A]	1500	1740	1600	1740	2150
Cold Crank Amps [A]	850	900	900	900	1150
Reserve Capacity [Minutes]	134	230	155	155	220
Vibration resistant[Yes/No]	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Mount capacity [Yes/No]	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Group Size	34	31	31	31	31
Item Weight [pounds]	49.5 pounds	75 lb	59.8pounds	60 pounds	74.5 pounds
Product Dimensions [inches]	13.25 X 11×9.5 inches	13 x 6.8 x 8.8 inches	12.8×6.5 x 9.38 inches	12.17x 6.61x 9.16 inches.	14 x 11 x 10 inches
Warranty [Year]	4	1	N/A	1	1

What Are The Best 12V Battery For Trolling Motor?

Here are some of the best 12V battery for trolling motor we found:

1. Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST-M TROLLING Thunder Marine Dual Purpose Battery

If you have consulted marine experts, they are likely to have recommended a dual purpose battery for your motor. Why is it so? A dual marine battery offers the starting and deep cycles that typically require you to pay for two different batteries. Simply, it is a cost-cutting technique.

For that reason, not withholding the exceptional crafting of the odyssey battery, it remains a go-for battery for knowledgeable marine users. Can I give you some of the countless reasons as to why you wouldn’t regret purchasing this battery? Right away!

Starting and deep cycle battery

To begin, I have to emphasize the dual capabilities of this battery. Honestly speaking, its cranking powers are way beyond the best starting batteries in the market. On the other hand, it avails 400 cycles on its deep cycle capability. That is to say, it will discharge at a slower rate for the longest time.

Age living terminals

Above that, this battery is constructed to live for ages. Its plates are pure virgin lead plates that are optimized for longevity. As a result, its terminals are resistant to corrosion and spills.

Environmental friendly

Before the Odyssey marine battery’s existence, marine batteries usually emitted gases that lead to environmental pollution.

Fortunately, this fantastic battery incorporates a sealed design which leads to gases recycling internally. Therefore, preventing environmental pollution.

Vibration resistant

Typically, the boat engine vibrates which doesn’t go well with the battery. As a matter of fact, intensive vibrations damage the battery.

Well, this fantastic battery has revolutionized everything, including the effect of intensive vibration. I mean, it has robust internal connections as well as a self-regulating valve making it vibration resistant.

2. Vmax Mr137-120 Agm Sealed Marine Agm Battery 12v 120ah

Do you get disgusted after expensively acquiring an item only to play a mediocre in its functioning? Worse, if it was a trolling motor battery, that means you will have to bring your business or leisure activity to a hold? Worry not! The VMAX MR13-120 battery is in the market to wipe all the troubles you might be facing.

Honestly, I am not overpraising this item. For confirmation, let’s look at its most exceptional features.

AGM

Have you ever wondered what makes the battery depreciate even after maintaining its elegant physical appearance? Let me answer you, it is the depreciation of the electrolyte which makes the battery discharge faster after some time.

Luckily the manufacturer of this fantastic battery played a genius by upgrading the electrolyte suspension system. How? It has an absorbed glass matt of extremely high porosity. Consequently, it dramatically contains and absorbs the electrolyte to increase its longevity.  In other words, this battery will retain its good quality in the long run.

Heavy-duty heavy grids

Another common threat in the longevity of trolling batteries is repeated over discharges. That is why most of the regularly used batteries for an extended period tend to waste faster. Unfortunately, if you are regularly on the water that may leave you in a dilemma of the best solution. Either way, you must get things done!

This is the best part-

No matter how long you will be facing regular over discharges, that wouldn’t be a threat to your battery’s good functioning. Can I explain?

This battery consists of extremely heavy-duty grids, that increase the margin performance and the battery’s lifetime despite the repeated over discharges, or even cyclic applications. Yes! It is that good.

Maintenance-free operation

Among the maintenance tips that you are asked to observe is regularly checking the specific gravity alongside the water levels. Otherwise, compromising on that has left most of the boat users in regrets. Unfortunately, it isn’t their fault but their busy schedules or the forgetfulness nature of humans.

When I said this battery focuses on nothing less than revolutionizing your experience with trolling batteries I wasn’t kidding. Look at this; it has a maintenance-free operation.

As it was in the past, you had to check the specific gravity levels regularly, it is no longer the case.

3. Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31m Blue Top Starting And Deep Cycle Battery

Before the optima batteries’ invention, the motor users were accustomed to regular charging of the deep cycle batteries. Thus, especially for the fishermen, they could only get to a limited distance into the sea or else have the battery charged every time they set to a fishing trip.

All credits to the optima batteries manufacturer, for at least seeing it possible to have a battery that can withstand more than five times of deep cycles. Well, that is only the beginning of the fantastic expertise it incorporates in its construction. Let’s dig deeper into its features.

Higher reserve capacity

Alongside the essential features that you should critically scrutinize in a battery is its reserve capacity. Am I diving right in? First, let’s know what reserve capacity is and what does it signify.

Reserve capacity is the total time a battery can stay after fully charging, at 80 degrees Fahrenheit by discharging only 25 amps until it gets 10.5 amps. In less technical terms the reserve capacity simply refers to how long a fully recharged battery can continue supporting the essential accessories if the boat’s alternator fails.

Consequently, the higher the reserve capacity, the longer the battery will keep the vital accessories working after the alternator fails. The good news is that this battery has a reserve capacity of over 155 minutes.

Weather-resistant

Have you ever used your battery in extremely cold weather? If so, you might have noticed a lower grade performance in comparison to typical climate conditions.  In case the battery manufacturer fails to consider the climatic changes, harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures reduce the battery’s functioning.

Don’t freak out if you have fully resolved that this is the battery you will use in your boat. That is because it is weather resistant. Thus, even in bad weather, its starting powers will be stronger like always.

To add?

In addition to its weather-resistant capabilities is its vibration resistant abilities. That is to say, your battery will not get damaged by the engine vibrations.

Stainless steel stud posts

Besides ensuring that the battery’s performance is fantastic, you would also love it if it will serve you for a prolonged period, right? In my case, I would actually be disappointed to pay for an item that will short live my expectations.

It may be unsurprising, this battery will live for decades. Among the brilliant sturdy crafting’s of this battery, the steel stud posts outstand them all.  It is no wonder that its lifespan is rated to be over ten years.

4. Autocraft Autouniversal Power Group 12V 100A DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery 12V 24V 48V

Regarding the sturdy and the brilliant crafting of the universal power group battery, I would say that it is worth your money. Honestly, if it has disappointed anyone, it is only because of its weight, of which it is manageable. It weighs only 60 pounds.

Why do I suggest that you consider this battery for your boat? In just a few and I am giving my reasons.

High compatibility

To begin with, is its unbeatable level of compatibility. Well, if you have used a trolling battery before, you are aware of how problematic it might be to replace some of its components with the leading being its terminals.

For that reason, this battery is compatible with regular automotive battery terminals.  Consequently, incase its terminals damage, you can easily use the available automotive terminals.

Nevertheless, even its replacement components are already available in the market. And if you are fortunate to have the warranty valid, you can call the manufacturer for absolutely free services.

Vibration and shock-resistant

Regular vibrations and shocks are the greatest threats to the lifespan of a trolling battery. To save yourself from disappointments due to a battery that couldn’t even live for a year, please ensure its vibration and shock resistance.

With that said, let me make you aware that this excellently crafted battery is 15 times secure from vibrations and shocks.

Dual-purpose battery

Typically, a boat requires two types of batteries starting battery to give it the initial energy and the deep cycle battery to keep it moving. Traditionally, one had to purchase the two batteries separately.

Fortunately, due to the inventions and innovations today, you don’t have to pay for two different batteries. Instead,  you can purchase the universal dual purpose battery for both deep cycles and cranking powers.

5. Autocraft Automotinorthstar NSB-AGM31M AGM Group 31 Marine Battery 1370MCA/1150CCA

Our last item is from the NorthStar brand, which leaves to its promise of releasing powerful and long-living products. And to this NSB-AGM31M AGM marine battery, it is a true embodiment of their pledge. Why? Below are the reasons.

AGM construction

Mostly, AGM batteries are exceedingly preferred due to their low current resistance, which results in a higher current output alongside their high porosity, increasing the lifespan of the electrolyte.

Correspondingly the manufacturer of this battery saw it right to incorporate the AGM technology. Consequently, the Northstar battery for trolling battery has a higher current output which minimizes frequent discharges.

Environmental friendly

Trolling motor batteries emit hazardous gases that have been linked to the destruction of the ozone layer.

Fortunately, this battery crafting helps to conserve the environment by recycling the dangers. Resultantly, it is a non-hazardous battery that is safe for sea or even air transport. 

Faster recharge

Typically, with a 15 amp charger, a motor battery will take not less than 11 hours to charge. And if the charger’s current rating is lower than 15 amps, it might take you even 20 hours or more.

The fast charging rate of this battery is what makes it unique. It is known to be the most rapid charging battery compared to other conventional batteries.

What to look for the best 12v battery for trolling motor?  

As the wise have it, you can’t do the right thing without knowing what is right. And in our case to get the right battery for the trolling motor, you need to know which the right battery in the market is. There are several qualifications that a battery should meet if you have to pay for them. To guarantee that you must check on some of its critical features. Which are they you would wonder? Just stick with me, I will explain everything in details.

Still, after purchasing the battery, the way you handle it may affect its functioning negatively. Consequently, you should be aware of some of the maintenance tips. This section focuses on ensuring that you get a long-lasting, expectation meeting battery and give you some maintenance tips. If you are ready, let’s dive in.

Find the right size battery

This question troubles most marine users, which is the right battery size for your motor? Nonetheless, purchasing a wrong-sized battery is like not having a battery at all for it will not power your boat. It is as serious as that.

How will you know the right battery sizing?

The first thing is to take the measurements of the power that is needed by the motor.

To calculate the power, first determine the current consumed by the battery, which is rated in amperes and record it. Secondly, check the voltage system of the motor, which is marked in volts (v). After, multiply the current with the voltage.

That is

Power (rated in watts)= amperage x voltage

W=I x V

Choose the battery with the right RC(Reserve Capacity)

Another thing to consider is the reserve capacity of the battery, which is usually abbreviated in RC. Reserve capacity is simply the total time that a fully charged battery can keep the essential accessories running if the motor alternator fails.

Rc is measured in minutes. The rule is the higher the reserve capacity rating the much recommendable is the battery.

Age of the Battery

Have you ever wondered why a particular battery brand lasts longer than other brands? It is because of the age rating of the battery.

At the moment of production, the battery manufacturer can predict the lifespan of a battery. For instance, you can have a battery rated with a lifespan of 10 or 3 years.

Why is this important? So simple, the more significant is the number signifying the age rating of the batter is, the higher is its lifespan. Meaning batteries with a lower age rating will only serve you for a few days.

The rule? Always consider a battery that has a higher lifespan or age rating.

Consider Battery CCA

Moving on is the cold crack amp. But before we get there let’s unravel what crank amps are and differentiate it from cold-cranking amps.

Crank amps are the measure of the current output of the battery measured at 0 degrees Celsius. While the cold crank amps is the measure the current output of the battery measured in -18 degrees Celsius. In other words, the cold crank rating refers to the ability of the battery to start battery in extremely cold temperatures.

Therefore, the higher is the cold crank   amps rating is the more powerful is the battery

 Price of the Battery

Even after looking at the crank amps, reserved capacity, and the battery’s lifespan, it is also recommendable to check on its pricing.

As they say, you are likely to get what you are willing to incur the cost of. That is to say,  if you haven’t planned well to pay for the best 12v battery for trolling motor, it shouldn’t surprise you after receiving a mediocre crafted item.

On the other hand, an expensive battery does it imply to a well-functioning battery. Am I confusing you? That is because a seller may attach high price tags may be to lure you or for selfish reasons of making higher profits.

So how will you know what to pay for?

First, ensure that you are not dealing with a counterfeit item. If time allows you, I always recommend that you sample all the batteries that meet your expectations. Afterward, you can choose one in the list that is within your budget.

Read your user manual

Now you have paid for the battery what’s next? It is learning how to operate it. Remember, poor operations may damage the battery. Thus you should thoroughly go through the manual.

 If you have used a trolling motor battery before, you might be tempted not to look at the manual. Furthermore, you got to experience, you’d brag. If those are your thoughts, you should discard them soonest. Different trolling batteries have different crafting styles. That is to say, their operations will differ.

Care and Maintenance of the Battery

Lastly, it is maintaining the battery well. Despite purchasing a well-constructed battery, it will fail prematurely if maintained poorly. For that reason, observe the below tips to foresee your battery living even beyond its lifespan.

• If possible, always keep the battery a room temperature
• Always adhere to charging guidelines, that is, avoid over or undercharging
• When storing a battery for an extended period, always keep it fully charged
• A boat battery should always be used on a boat, not in the car.
• Always install the battery properly

What size is the right size battery for trolling motor?

Purchasing a wrong-sized battery as not having the battery at all. All I mean is that a lower sized battery will not power your boat. So always focus on purchasing the right size battery. How will you achieve that?

No neuroscience here. Let me explain it all in detail.

The first thing is to determine the current needed by the boat. Usually, the motor’s current is indicated in amps. Next is to check the voltage system of the motor.

The power needed by the boat is equivalent to the motor’s current multiplied by the voltage requirement.

That is;

Power (watts) = current (A) x volts (V)

How to store the trolling motor battery?

Poor storage is the main reason why most of the batteries stop functioning prematurely. Thus, every time you store your battery, you should observe some tips to guarantee that your battery lives up to its lifespan. Some of the storage tips are;

• When storing the battery for over a month, keep it fully charged. Leaving the battery discharged for a long time reduces its performance
• If possible store the battery at room temperatures
• Always store the batteries separately. That is, you should never mix the battery with other new or old batteries
• Always check the condition of the batteries after some time. Specifically check the terminals for corrosion and regularly clean them
• If you are using a wet battery, regularly check the fluid level.

How to calculate the run time for the trolling motor battery?

Understanding how long the battery will run consistently is vital because it helps decide after how long you should stay in the water to avoid running out of charge in the middle of nowhere.

The manufacturer usually indicates the run time of the battery in amps per hour. However, if yours has no indication, I will help you calculate it.

To calculate the battery run time, check on its reserve capacity and simply divide it by 2.4.

For instance, assuming your battery’s reserved capacity is 1600 minutes; its run time is 1600/2.4, which is equal to 66.66Ah.

Conclusion

The key features that you should consider for an expectation meeting trolling motor battery are crank amps, cold crank amps, reserve capacity, and amps rating.

Here is all the wisdom you need to pay for an item you will be forever grateful for. It gives a detailed review of the best 12v battery for trolling motor in the market.

And even better, detailed buyers guide alongside answers to some of the questions you may have regarding these batteries. Get reading to guarantee a never-disappointing battery for your motor.

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