Name:	MrHodja -	Reply
Subject:	Trolling Motor Battery Recommendation
Date:	3/2/2024 12:50:37 PM

I put this on the forum's Boat Maintenance section but suspect I might get better results here....

I recently became the owner of a fishing kayak with a 55 lb thrust trolling motor. Battery that came with it is a Walmart product that is not up to the task. Have done a lot of on line searching and, like everything else, there are myriad choices, some involving a double fistful of shekels.  

Any "been there, done that" recommendations? Seems LiFePO4 batteries are the best, but quite a bit more than similar capacity lead acid AGM varieties.  Plus, to be charged properly, they need a charger specifically oriented to the litium battery charging protocol.

I wont be needing the battery to last all day, as I am a "casual" fisherman, but also dont want a battery that will leave me stranded and having to paddle home, lol. 

Name:	Shortbus -	Reply
Subject:	Trolling Motor Battery Recommendation
Date:	3/3/2024 10:58:09 AM

If weight is a consideration, LiFePO4 is the way to go. BIG difference.

LiFePO4 stays charged and won't sulfate due to neglect. Always ready to go.

To size battery, take duty cycle  x  amps  x time to get amp hours.

Then overrate by 2 or whatever you feel safe with.

Remember lead acid batteries can only be used to 50% of their amp hour ratings. LiFePO4 to 100%

Be cautious buying LiFePO4 starter batteries with lead acid equivalent amp hour ratings.  They inflate the LiFePO4 rating.

Name:	MartiniMan -	Reply
Subject:	Trolling Motor Battery Recommendation
Date:	3/4/2024 1:38:17 PM

Lithium is best for power, longevity and weight.  If weight is not an issue then AGM is a good in between.  Still heavy but works much better than lead acid.  Both lithium and AGM are more expensive but allegedly worth it in the long run.  I plan to replace my RV house batteries with AGM when the time comes.  

Name:	MrHodja -	Reply
Subject:	Trolling Motor Battery Recommendation
Date:	3/4/2024 2:59:52 PM

Thanks to you both.  Weight may indeed be a factor because we recently moved to Lake Tallassee and currently I have to bring the existing (plain ole heavy lead-acid) battery up a significant hill to recharge it.  Thank goodness a UTV came with the property, lol.  Our dock has a GFCI outlet on a post at water's edge, but I haven't tried it yet.  Guess I should find out if it can be energized.