What You Need To Know About Trolling Motor Batteries

Often times, people find it difficult when it comes to selecting the best trolling motor battery. For some people, it’s as simple as A, B, C, while for others, it’s quite tough. When it comes to picking trolling motor batteries, there are few things you will want to keep in mind before buying, such as the battery type, durability, and their prices. There are lots of websites out there where you can get the best motor trolling batteries without stress.

There three primary types of batteries and the one that is best recommended for trolling motors are thick cycle 12-volt batteries. The other battery types are lead-acid wet cell batteries and AGM batteries. In real life, many fishers don’t really give much consideration about their battery’s lifespan until the battery failed. And there is nothing that disrupts real-time fishing like a failed trolling motor. To combat any potential issues you might have with trolling motor batteries, here are some real-time good batteries you can choose from:

1. Wet Cell Batteries

This brand of batteries can also be called deep cycle marine batteries.^[1] When taking the properties of these batteries into consideration, it is important to note that they are expected to last for a long time. As far as the durability of these batteries, they can last from 1-3 years, but that will depend on how they are used and how they are stored. These batteries are not that expensive and that’s why many fishers prefer them.

You shouldn’t confuse these batteries with a cranking battery. A cranking battery comprises of thin lead plates and they produce short bursts of power for a fast start. Deep-cycle marine batteries, on the other hand, are made with stronger lead plates and are built to provide you with power over a long period of time. The thicker plate in deep-cycle marine batteries also stands up to the greater temperature, which is caused by a constant current draw that lasts a long period.

2. AGM Batteries

AGM trolling motor batteries can also be called gel-based batteries.^[2] The meaning of the AGM is Absorbed Glass Mat. These batteries last longer than wet cell batteries. The life-span of an AGM battery is between 3 and 5 years, and they can cost up to twice as much as a wet cell deep-cycle marine battery. They are the best for longevity, as well as for excellent performance, over a period of time. AGM batteries do not need too much maintenance, because they are enclosed, and you don’t have to open them up to add distilled water like you do with the wet-cell battery.

These batteries will offer more capacity in less space. So, if space is an issue in your boat, it is advisable to check the size of an AGM battery with a wet cell trolling motor battery might be a good idea. High-quality AGM batteries will also hold their charge longer when they are not in use. They don’t discharge like wet cells.

Some fishers prefer AGM batteries because they are sealed, and many are not used to the idea of having liquid battery acid in their boat. If you still doubt whether to spend the extra money on an AGM battery, keep these things in mind. Often times, the warranty placed on an AGM trolling motor battery is much higher than wet cell batteries.

3. Lithium-Ion Batteries

These kind of batteries is relatively new in the market. It has been tested by many fishers, who speak very highly of them. The biggest issue for the weekend fisher or amateur tournament angler will likely be the cost. These batteries are costly. You can plan to spend $950 to $1,400 easily per battery.

One of the good things about the lithium-ion battery is the longevity life span.^[3] These cells can last up to 10 years if kept stored under 105 degrees. Very high heat may reduce the battery’s life-span somewhat, regardless if you buy the best battery for a trolling motor or not.

Featured photo credit: battery/https://morguefile.com via morguefile.com

Reference

[1]	^	Wikipedia: Battery
[2]	^	Wikipedia: VRLA battery
[3]	^	Wikipedia: Lithium-ion Battery

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