Can you use a lithium battery for a trolling motor? It’s a question that has been on the minds of anglers everywhere, and thankfully we have an answer. In short, the answer is yes – you can use a lithium battery for your trolling motor.
However, there are some critical things that you need to know before making this switch. And we will show you that in this read. Keep reading to learn more.
What are the Different Types of Batteries for Electric Trolling Motors?
Trolling motors are a great way to get around, but they can be a pain when the batteries run out. There are four types of batteries that you can use for electric trolling motors: sealed lead acid, gel cell, absorbed glass mat, and lithium-ion.
Flooded Lead Acid batteries: Compared to the other options, these batteries are the most affordable to purchase. Furthermore, these batteries allow the acid to spill easily. This is handy if your battery is not appropriately maintained or the water level significantly drops below a specific point.
Gel battery: Gel batteries are another option that you can use for electric trolling motors. These are also known as sealed lead-acid batteries. The best thing about these batteries is the several features that make them entirely different from other battery types.
The main difference between Gel batteries and other batteries is that you need to charge Gel batteries as per the companies’ recommended voltage range. And if you don’t charge them as per the maker’s instructions, they will not maintain their charge capacity and might break down.
AGM or Absorbed Glass Mat batteries: These batteries are highly resistant to vibration and shock, mainly due to a fiberglass mat. The included mat is saturated with electrolytes, so there are minimum chances of spills and leaks.
Lithium-ion batteries: The main difference between lithium-ion batteries and others is that they are made of lithium, a lightweight but highly durable metal. Mostly, you will find lithium-ion batteries in mobile devices and other gadgets such as cell phones, laptops, etc. Lithium-ion batteries are ideal to use with trolling motors and charge quickly.
Besides, these are also known to hold their charge for much longer. However, you need to know that Lithium-ion batteries are a bit more expensive than the others, and some of them need a special charger for optimal performance.
Are Lithium Batteries Suitable for Trolling Motors?
Generally speaking, yes, you can use lithium batteries with trolling motors. However, most trolling motor companies don’t recommend lithium trolling motor batteries with their products.
The reason for this denial is simple.
There are many differences between lithium batteries and standard batteries. The biggest difference, in my opinion, is that they operate at notably higher voltage, around 14 to 16 Volts. Similarly, lithium batteries run for longer durations compared to Lead-Acid batteries.
Moreover, trolling motors are more suitable to use in conjunction with the batteries that operate on 13V or 12V. So, if you use a higher voltage, it means that your motor will be more prone to risks, and it might also damage some other components of your motor.
Now, most of you will be thinking about what size lithium battery is appropriate for trolling motors. If you are, here is the answer:
What sizes of lithium batteries for trolling motors?
So which size or output is the best to use with trolling motor. As per our experts, you can use a “12V” Lithium battery with an average output of less than 13.8V with your trolling motor.
We know some users might be using 24-volt trolling motors. If that’s the case with you, don’t worry. For 24V trolling motors, you can comfortably use “24v” lithium batteries with an average output of less than 25.6 volts.
Words of Caution
Not many people know that a lithium battery’s output voltage or power is not that easy to figure out. So, if you really want to use a lithium battery with trolling motor, carefully read the battery’s specifications or contact the manufacturer to know the precise “battery’s output voltage.”
Furthermore, when doing so, ensure that you are reading the battery’s “Output Voltage,” not the battery’s “Nominal Voltage.”
Pay special attention to this as most manufacturers label their batteries as “12 Volts,” but they provide a much higher voltage.
Best lithium-ion battery for trolling motors
When it comes to lithium batteries for trolling batteries, we will recommend 12V 100Ah Lithium LiFePO4 Battery. This 12v lithium battery is the best to use with trolling motors. We have detailed review of this battery here.
Pros of Lithium batteries:
- It can discharge up to 90% depth without affecting battery life.
- Excellent cycle life up to 3000 to 5000 charges.
- Compact and lightweight hence highly portable.
Cons of Lithium batteries:
- Expensive than the other batteries.
- You will need a different charger.
Are Lithium Trolling Motor Batteries Worth it?
Do Lithium trolling motor batteries worth it? This is one of the most common questions that anglers ask. In my humble opinion, lithium batteries for trolling motors are worth it, and here are some key reasons for using marine lithium batteries for your trolling motor.
Significant Weight Reduction
When researching lithium batteries, the first thing that will jump out at you is the notable weight reduction. For most anglers, battery weight is a major concern. And while lighter batteries are certainly easier to carry around, they also have some distinct advantages when it comes to fishing.
First of all, lighter batteries tend to be more portable, making them ideal for anglers who have to travel long distances to reach their fishing spots.
Additionally, lighter batteries are much easier to store on boats and other small vessels. And finally, lighter batteries are less likely to break during periods of rough weather or when being handled roughly. So lithium is definitely the way to go if you’re looking for a battery that won’t weigh you down.
Furthermore, any boater worth their salt knows that weight is important when it comes to performance. Too much weight and your boat will be sluggish, while too little can make it unstable. That’s why many boaters opt for lithium batteries, which are lighter than traditional lead-acid batteries and can help improve performance.
Lithium batteries also have a higher energy density, meaning they can pack more power into a smaller space. This can be a major advantage when trying to maximize top-end speed, as every ounce counts.
In addition, lithium batteries are also much more efficient than lead-acid batteries, meaning that you’ll get more power out of them for the same weight. So lithium is the way to go if you’re looking for a battery that can help improve your boat’s performance.
Longer Working Life With a Faster Charge
When it comes to trolling motor batteries, lithium has some notable advantages over other types of batteries. For one thing, lithium batteries tend to have longer run times without voltage drop. This means you can fish for longer before recharging your battery. Lithium batteries also tend to charge more quickly than other types of batteries so that you can get back on the water sooner.
Lithium batteries have a lot to offer anglers, including sustained high input and output voltage. That means your accessories will have power for more of the fishing day without the noticeable loss of power you get with flooded lead-acid batteries.
Moreover, Lithium batteries also store energy more efficiently, so you can use them for longer periods. So if you’re looking for a battery that can keep up with your fishing lifestyle, lithium is the best choice.
Longer Lifespan – How long do lithium marine batteries last?
If you’re like most people, the thought of marine batteries probably doesn’t get you too excited. But if you’re a boater, then you know that these essential pieces of equipment play a vital role in ensuring your vessel can keep running smoothly.
And while traditional lead-acid batteries have been the go-to choice for many years, newer lithium marine batteries are now gaining popularity due to their longer lifespan. In fact, marine lithium batteries can last up to 10 times longer than their lead-acid counterparts— saving you a notable amount in the long run.
Anglers who frequently find themselves in the middle of nowhere with a dead boat battery know the importance of having a dependable and long-lasting battery on board. Lithium deep cycle batteries are becoming increasingly popular for this very reason.
Furthermore, the average life of these types of batteries will vary, but anglers can expect between 3,000 and 5,000 charge cycles depending on manufacturer and use. In other words, with proper care, a lithium battery could last an angler their entire lifetime.
More Power
If you’ve ever been out on a boat with a trolling motor, you know the drill: start off slow, speed up, and slow down again as you zigzag your way through the water. It’s enough to give you whiplash. No wonder trolling motors need a fair amount of cranking torque to keep up with the constant fluctuation in speeds. Lithium batteries are up to the task, thanks to their negligible voltage drop when rapid acceleration is required.
In other words, they pack a powerful punch when it comes to supplying the cranking torque that trolling motors need. So if you’re looking for a battery that can keep up with your zigzagging ways, lithium-ion batteries are ideal.
Size Matters
If you’re looking for a battery that packs a punch without weighing you down, look no further than the lithium battery. These batteries are much lighter than their lead-acid counterparts, but their compact size acquires less space. For instance, a 24v lithium battery will be the same size as a 12v deep cycle battery.
Lithium batteries for your trolling motor: Our Verdict
So, are lithium batteries right for your trolling motor? The answer to that question is a little bit complicated but if you follow the points mentioned in this read, things will become simple.
In general, a lithium battery is probably the way to go if you’re looking for a powerful battery that will give you plenty of run time and doesn’t require much maintenance.
However, there are some things you need to keep in mind before making your purchase.
Do your research and ensure you get the best battery for your needs – one that will provide long-lasting power without breaking the bank. If you decide to go with a lithium battery, congratulations! You’ve decided to improve your trolling experience for years to come.
FAQS
How long will a 100ah lithium battery last on trolling motor?
A 100 amp hour battery can deliver 100 amp hours of current to a trolling motor. So lets say if a trolling motor is running at low speed and pulling 4-5 amps, the battery should last around 20-25 hours. (100 amp hour rating / 4 amps = 25 hours).
Do lithium trolling motor batteries need a special charger?
You cannot use normal lead acid battery charger for your lithium battery because these chargers have desulphation and equalisation stages built in, which will pulse high voltages of 15.3-15.8V into the battery. You will need a (CC/CV) charge type with simple Bulk, Absorption, Float stages.
Can a Minn Kota run on a lithium battery?
Yes you can run Minn Kota on a lithium battery.
