How Long Do Trolling Motor Batteries Last & Tips to Extend Lifespan

A trolling motor is crucial for anglers who want to navigate the water efficiently and quietly. Although a trolling motor offers numerous advantages, its performance is directly influenced by the battery that powers it. Without a reliable battery, your trolling motor may not function properly, negatively affecting your fishing experience. So, how long do trolling motor batteries last? This article examines the lifespan of trolling motor batteries and the factors that affect it.

Table of Content

• Part 1. What Are Trolling Motor Batteries
• Part 2. Marine Starting Batteries vs. Deep Cycle Batteries
• Part 3. Deep Cycle Trolling Motor Battery Type
• 3.1 Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries
• 3.2 AGM Batteries
• 3.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries
• Part 4. Factors Affecting Trolling Motor Battery Life
• Part 5. How to Maintain the Trolling Motor Battery
• Part 6. What Battery Specifications to Consider?
• 6.1 Amp Hour Rating
• 6.2 Voltage
• 6.3 Useful Tips
• Part 7. Can I Change My Trolling Motor Battery to LiFePO4? What's the Benefits?
• Part 8. Choosing The Right Lithium Battery for Your Trolling Motor
• Part 9. Conclusion

Part 1. What Are Trolling Motor Batteries

Trolling motor batteries are specifically designed to power boat trolling motors, providing electricity for extended periods, especially during slow trolling through fishing areas.

In contrast, boat starting batteries are built to ignite the engine. Marine batteries are essential for both starting the engine and delivering sufficient power to sustain the motor and the devices connected to the boat.

To make an informed decision about the ideal trolling motor battery for your needs, it's crucial to understand the different types of batteries available.

Part 2. Marine Starting Batteries vs. Deep Cycle Batteries

Marine starting batteries are specifically designed to deliver high bursts of energy to start a boat's engine. They quickly discharge a large amount of power and are then rapidly recharged by the engine's alternator.

In contrast, deep cycle batteries are built to provide sustained power over long periods. These batteries are used to run onboard accessories such as trolling motors, radios, and lights. Deep cycle batteries can be discharged and recharged repeatedly without affecting their performance, making them ideal for extended use.

Related reading: Marine Deep Cycle VS Starting Batteries

Part 3. Deep Cycle Trolling Motor Battery Type

Deep cycle trolling motor batteries are crucial for powering electric trolling motors used in fishing boats and other marine applications. The three main types of deep cycle trolling motor batteries are flooded lead-acid, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat), and lithium-ion, each offering unique features.

3.1 Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries

• Flooded lead-acid batteries are the most traditional and widely used type of deep cycle batteries.
• They are initially the most cost-effective option but require regular maintenance, such as checking and refilling water levels.
• During charging, they can release gases, necessitating good ventilation.
• These batteries are quite heavy and should not be fully discharged, with a recommended discharge rate of around 50%.
• Additionally, their average lifespan is relatively short, typically lasting only 2-3 years.

3.2 AGM Batteries

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are a type of sealed lead-acid battery that uses a glass mat separator to hold the electrolyte in place.
• They are maintenance-free, as they do not require watering, and being sealed, they do not release gases during charging.
• AGM batteries are more resistant to vibration and shock, making them ideal for marine applications.
• They generally have a longer lifespan and better performance in cold temperatures compared to flooded lead-acid batteries.
• However, they are still heavy and should not be fully discharged, with a recommended discharge rate of around 50%.
• Despite their advantages, their average lifespan is typically only 2-3 years.

3.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries

• Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high energy density, allowing them to store more energy in a lighter and smaller package compared to lead-acid batteries.
• They have a longer lifespan and can be discharged more deeply without damage. For example, Timeusb lithium trolling motor batteries can be discharged 100%, allowing you to completely use the stored energy. The life cycle of Timeusb lithium batteries ranges from 4,000 to 15,000 cycles, with a service life of up to 10 years.
• They are lightweight and have a high charge/discharge efficiency, providing longer runtimes for trolling motors.
• Although lithium-ion batteries are more expensive upfront, they offer a longer overall lifespan and superior performance, making them a popular choice for high-end trolling motor setups.

Part 4. Factors Affecting Trolling Motor Battery Life

Here are some factors that can affect the lifespan of a trolling motor battery:

Charge and Discharge Cycles: The number of times you charge and discharge your trolling motor battery impacts its lifespan. Over time, repeated cycling will reduce battery capacity and shorten its life. For example, Timeusb lithium trolling motor batteries offer up to 4,000-15,000 charge and discharge cycles, translating to a lifespan of over 10 years.

Temperature: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can damage a battery's internal components and reduce its overall lifespan. Always store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use. It's important to understand the optimal temperature range for your battery type, such as LiFePO4 batteries.

Depth of Discharge (DOD): The depth of discharge also affects battery lifespan. Consistently discharging a battery too deeply can shorten its life. Lead-acid batteries typically have a DOD of around 50%, whereas lithium batteries can have a DOD of 100%.

Battery Type: The lifespan of your battery is significantly influenced by its type. Traditional lead-acid batteries generally have a shorter lifespan compared to lithium-ion batteries, such as lithium iron phosphate.

Maintenance: Proper maintenance can extend battery life. This includes regular cleaning and, for lead-acid batteries, checking and refilling water levels as needed.

Usage: How often and how long you use your trolling motor affects battery longevity. Running the trolling motor at high speeds for extended periods will deplete the battery faster and reduce its overall lifespan.

Part 5. How to Maintain the Trolling Motor Battery

To ensure your trolling motor batteries deliver prolonged and reliable performance, follow these troubleshooting and maintenance guidelines:

1. Recharge Promptly: Fully recharge your trolling motor battery immediately after use to prevent lead sulfate buildup. Leaving the battery with less than 12.4 volts can significantly impact its performance and lifespan.

2. Offseason Maintenance: During the offseason, use a trickle charger to maintain the charge of lead-acid batteries or recharge them monthly. For lithium batteries, use lithium battery chargers and maintain the battery at 40% to 50% of its capacity to keep it in optimal condition. Avoid leaving the battery uncharged for extended periods, as this can reduce performance and longevity.

3. Full Discharge and Recharge: Periodically fully drain and recharge your battery to prevent stratification, where chemicals in the cells become unbalanced and affect performance and lifespan.

4. Cooling Period: Allow the battery to cool down after recharging. Using the battery immediately after recharging can cause damage or failure due to the heat generated during the recharge cycle.

5. Equalize Charge: After each recharge, use the equalizing cycle on most battery chargers to balance the battery cells. This process involves an extended, low-current charge to ensure all cells are evenly charged.

6. Maintenance of Wet Cell Batteries: For lead-acid wet cell batteries, check the water levels monthly and top them off with distilled water as needed.

7. Storage and Inspection: Before storing the battery in a dry, temperate environment during the offseason, clean the battery and terminals. Upon removing the battery from storage, thoroughly inspect it for any signs of damage, such as bulging, cracks, frayed cables, or corrosion, which can severely affect performance and safety. For more information, see: How Do You Store LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries.

8. Routine Tests: Conduct routine voltage and specific gravity tests on the electrolyte solution in each cell of lead-acid wet cell batteries to detect issues such as over-watering and inadequate charge.

9. Quality Charger: Invest in a high-quality charger to ensure effective charging and maintain the battery at its full capacity. 

General Guidelines

1. Understand Power Requirements: Familiarize yourself with your boat's power needs to better understand how your battery operates.

2. Match Discharge Rate: Align your battery's discharge rate with the motor's power consumption to optimize performance and extend battery lifespan.

3. Operating Conditions: Use the trolling motor in calm waters whenever possible to reduce power consumption and extend battery life.

4. Battery Aging: Monitor your battery's age, capacity, and internal resistance, as aging batteries may show diminished performance and increased resistance. Using a battery monitor is advisable to keep track of its condition.

5. Steady Usage: Apply a steady and moderate load when using the trolling motor, and adjust speeds gradually to conserve power and reduce strain on the battery.

6. Handle with Care: Handle lead-acid wet cell batteries carefully to prevent damage to the internal plates from vibrations or sudden impacts, which can impair their ability to hold a charge.

Part 6. What Battery Specifications to Consider?

The specifications of a battery can greatly influence your overall experience. With so many batteries on the market claiming to be the best, it can be challenging to determine which ones truly excel.

6.1 Amp Hour Rating

Amp hours, similar to a fuel tank gauge, indicate how long your battery will last by representing the amount of charge available in your trolling motor battery.

A higher amp-hour rating means your trolling motor will receive power for a longer period, making this an important specification to consider when choosing a new trolling motor battery.

For reliable performance, it’s generally recommended to select a battery with at least 100 amp hours. However, batteries with higher ratings, such as 125 amp hours, will offer extended operational time. Choose the amp-hour capacity based on your specific needs to find the most suitable option for your usage.

6.2 Voltage

Standard deep cycle batteries are typically 12 volts. Before making a final decision, evaluate your power system to determine if a higher voltage is required. Some power systems may need 24V or even 36V.

6.3 Useful Tips

When selecting a trolling motor battery, your intended usage is essential in finding the best fit for your needs. For optimal performance and minimal maintenance, investing in lithium batteries is highly recommended.

Here are some useful tips for maintaining your lithium battery:

• Charge batteries after each use
• Store batteries in a cool, dark place to prevent drainage
• Check for corrosion before use
• Never mix different types of batteries

Part 7. Can I Change My Trolling Motor Battery to LiFePO4? What's the Benefits?

Yes, you can upgrade your trolling motor battery to a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery.

LiFePO4 batteries are lighter, have a longer lifespan, charge more quickly, and offer higher energy density compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. They also require minimal maintenance, provide consistent voltage, and are more environmentally friendly.

Part 8. Choosing The Right Lithium Battery for Your Trolling Motor

Voltage of Motor	Motor Thrust	Recommended Max Amp of Batteries	Recommended LiTime LiFePO4 Batteries	Recommended Reasons
12V	20 ~ 30 lb	50A	Timeusb 12V 50Ah Lithium Battery Timeusb 12V 50Ah Trolling Motor Battery	Cost-effective
12V	30 ~ 70 lb	100A	Timeusb 12V 100Ah Lithium Battery	Cost-effective, Low-temp, Lighter
24V	70 ~ 100 lb	100A	Timeusb 24V 100Ah Lithium Battery	Cost-effective
36V	100 ~ 120 lb	100A	3*Timeusb 12V 50Ah Trolling Motor Battery 3* Timeusb 12V 100Ah Lithium Battery Timeusb 36V 50Ah Trolling Motor Battery	3 batteries in series

Part 9. Conclusion

By selecting the right battery type, following recommended charging practices, and using the trolling motor under optimal conditions, you can extend the battery's lifespan and enhance your fishing experience.

Adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance and care guidelines is crucial for ensuring reliable performance over time. Additionally, upgrading to LiFePO4 batteries can further improve your experience.