Most trolling motors push a typical fishing boat at roughly 3 to 5 mph at full speed. A trolling motor’s top speed is limited less by thrust than by its prop and the boat’s hull: more thrust mainly helps a heavier boat reach that speed and hold it against wind and current, rather than making a light boat go much faster. Lighter craft such as kayaks and canoes reach their top speed with less thrust.
What affects trolling motor speed
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Boat weight and length | Heavier boats need more thrust to reach the same speed |
| Hull shape | Narrow, light hulls move more easily |
| Thrust and voltage | More thrust holds speed in wind and current; see 12V vs 24V |
| Prop condition | Weeds, fishing line or damage cut speed; see trolling motor prop |
| Battery charge | Lead-acid batteries lose voltage as they drain, slowing the motor |
How fast does a 55 lb trolling motor go?
On a light jon boat or small aluminum boat, a 55 lb motor at full speed typically moves at the low end of that 3 to 5 mph range or a little above, depending on load. On a heavier boat it will be slower and work harder. Thrust ratings are about pushing power, not top speed; see trolling motor size guide.
How fast on a kayak?
Kayaks and canoes are light and slippery, so small trolling motors move them efficiently, often near the top of the typical range, for a long time on one battery.
How fast does a 30 or 50 lb trolling motor go?
Smaller motors are usually paired with lighter boats, so on a canoe, kayak or small jon boat they can reach similar speeds to a larger motor on a larger boat. On a heavier boat, a small motor will be slower and struggle in wind. Match thrust to your loaded boat weight rather than chasing speed.
Why not faster?
Trolling motors are designed for quiet, controlled, low-speed boat positioning and long run time, not transport. Their props are sized for thrust at low speed. For getting across a lake quickly, use an outboard; see what size outboard do I need?
Run time vs speed
Running at full speed drains batteries many times faster than running slowly; see trolling motor battery life. Lithium batteries hold their voltage, so speed stays steadier until they are nearly empty; see lithium vs lead-acid.
If your motor feels slow
Check the prop for line, the battery charge and connections, and the motor’s wiring; see trolling motor troubleshooting and boat battery keeps dying.
More guides: outboards for canoes.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.