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You’ve just bought your first trolling motor, or maybe you’re upgrading an old setup, and the last thing you want to do is spend a fortune on a battery. But a cheap trolling motor battery that dies after an hour on the water is no bargain. In this guide, we’ll show you how to find an affordable battery that still delivers dependable power, so you can focus on fishing, not worrying about your next charge.

We’ve evaluated a range of budget-friendly marine batteries, from sealed lead-acid to lithium options, to help you choose the right one for your kayak, jon boat, or small watercraft. Whether you need a lightweight option for a kayak or a rugged battery for a saltwater trolling motor, we’ve got you covered.

Buying Guide: How to Choose a Cheap Trolling Motor Battery

Before you hit the “buy” button, there are a few key factors to consider. These will help you avoid wasting money on a battery that doesn’t fit your needs.

Battery Type: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium

Lead-acid batteries (including AGM and gel) are the traditional budget choice. They cost less upfront but are heavier and have a shorter lifespan. Lithium batteries cost more initially but are lighter, last longer, and can be a better long-term investment if you fish often.

For a truly cheap trolling motor battery, sealed lead-acid options like the Mighty Max Battery 12v 35ah light trolling motor are hard to beat. But if you want to save weight and get more cycles, a budget lithium like the CHITOLI 12V 100Ah TM LiFePO4 Battery is worth the extra dollars.

Capacity (Ah) and Runtime

Amp-hours (Ah) tell you how much energy the battery can store. For small trolling motors (30-40 lb thrust), a 35-50Ah battery may be enough for a few hours of fishing. For 55 lb thrust motors, you’ll want at least 50Ah, and for 24V or 36V systems, you’ll need higher capacity or multiple batteries.

If you’re on a tight budget, a 35Ah battery like the Mighty Max is a great starting point. But if you can stretch a bit, a 100Ah lithium battery offers many more hours of runtime and is a more versatile choice for other uses like RV or solar.

Size and Weight

Weight matters, especially on a kayak or small boat. Lead-acid batteries are heavy; a 50Ah AGM can weigh 30+ pounds. Lithium batteries are significantly lighter, making them easier to carry and better for performance. Check the dimensions to ensure the battery fits in your battery box or compartment.

For a lightweight option, consider the 12V 100Ah Trolling Motor LiFePO4 Battery from GRENERPOWER, which weighs only about 23 pounds. That’s a fraction of the weight of a comparable lead-acid battery.

Voltage Compatibility

Most small trolling motors run on 12V, but some larger ones use 24V or 36V systems. Make sure you choose a battery with the correct voltage for your motor. For 36V systems, you can either buy a single 36V battery or wire three 12V batteries in series. The LOSSIGY 36V Lithium Golf Cart Battery is a solid choice for high-thrust motors.

Check your motor’s manual to see the required voltage and minimum amp draw. This will help you avoid buying a battery that’s too weak or incompatible.

Final Thoughts

When you’re shopping for a cheap trolling motor battery, the key is to balance upfront cost with long-term reliability. For most anglers, a 12V 100Ah lithium battery like the CHITOLI 12V 100Ah TM LiFePO4 Battery offers the best value, thanks to its light weight, long cycle life, and low self-discharge. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, the Mighty Max Battery 12v 35ah light trolling motor is a dependable lead-acid option that won’t let you down for smaller setups. Whichever you choose, make sure it matches your motor’s voltage and your boating needs, and you’ll enjoy many worry-free trips on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest trolling motor battery that still works well?

For a budget pick, the Mighty Max Battery 12V 35Ah is a solid, low-cost option for small trolling motors. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, a lithium battery like the CHITOLI 12V 100Ah offers better long-term value and performance.

How long will a cheap trolling motor battery last on a single charge?

It depends on the battery capacity (Ah) and your motor’s amp draw. A 35Ah battery might last 2-4 hours with a 30lb thrust motor, while a 100Ah lithium battery can last 8-10 hours or more. Always check your motor’s amp draw to estimate runtime.

Can I use a car battery for my trolling motor?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Car batteries are not deep-cycle, so they will be damaged if discharged too much. A marine deep-cycle battery is designed for trolling motors and will last much longer.

Are lithium trolling motor batteries worth the extra cost?

Yes, especially if you fish frequently. Lithium batteries are lighter, charge faster, and have a much longer lifespan (thousands of cycles). They also maintain voltage better, which means consistent power for your motor. For a budget-conscious angler, the initial investment pays off over time.

For more in-depth comparisons, check out our best rated trolling motor battery guide and best trolling motor battery box picks.