Center console boats need a trolling motor with a long shaft, usually 60″ to 72″, enough thrust for a heavy hull, typically 80 lb on 24 volts, and a saltwater Riptide build for salt or brackish water. GPS Spot-Lock helps hold position over structure in wind and current.
A trolling motor for a center console needs:
- A long shaft, usually 60″ to 72″
- Enough thrust for a heavy hull, typically 80 lb on 24 volts
- A saltwater Riptide build if you fish in salt or brackish water
GPS anchoring with Spot-Lock is especially useful on a center console for holding over structure in wind and current. The motors below are the ones whose listings name center consoles among the boats they suit.
Which trolling motors fit a center console?
| Motor | Thrust | Shafts | Steering | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 55 | 55 lb | 54″ | Electric, saltwater, up to 21′ | $1,659.99 |
| Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 | 70 lb | 54″ | Electric, saltwater, up to 21′ | $1,959.99 |
| Minn Kota Riptide Maxxum 80 Bowguard | 80 lb | 52″, 62″ | Cable, saltwater, up to 23′ | $1,399.99 |
| Minn Kota Riptide Fortrex 80 | 80 lb | 52″, 62″ | Cable, saltwater, up to 25′ | $1,599.99 |
| Minn Kota Riptide Terrova 55 | 55 lb | 54″, 60″ | GPS, saltwater | $2,449.99 |
| Minn Kota Riptide Terrova 80 | 80 lb | 54″, 60″, 72″ | GPS, saltwater | $2,649.99 |
| Minn Kota Terrova 80 | 80 lb | 45″, 60″, 72″ | GPS, freshwater | $1,899.99 |
| Minn Kota Ulterra 80 | 80 lb | 45″, 60″ | GPS, auto stow, freshwater | $2,799.99 |
What shaft length do I need for a center console?
A center console’s bow sits high and the boat pitches in waves, so a short shaft lets the prop come out of the water. Measure from the mount to the waterline and add enough to keep the motor well submerged in chop; 60″ and 72″ shafts are common. See how deep a trolling motor should be.
How much thrust do I need for 17 to 24 foot boats?
Allow about 2 lb of thrust per 100 lb of fully loaded boat weight, with extra margin for tide and wind, which are often stronger on open water. Many 17 to 20 foot center consoles use 80 lb motors, and larger boats need the most thrust available and a careful look at the motor’s stated boat length. See the trolling motor size guide.
Should I use a saltwater or freshwater trolling motor?
Use a Riptide motor if you fish in salt or brackish water; freshwater motors are not built for it. See Riptide vs freshwater Minn Kota.
How do I mount and wire a trolling motor on a center console?
A center console often needs:
- A mounting plate or bracket to clear the bow rail and provide a flat, strong surface
- Correctly sized wire for long wiring runs from the batteries at the console or stern
See trolling motor mounts, trolling motor wiring and how to wire a 24 volt trolling motor.
Browse saltwater trolling motors and Spot-Lock trolling motors.
More guides: trolling motors for bass boats.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.
Frequently asked questions
What shaft length do I need for a center console?
Center consoles usually need a 60″ to 72″ shaft. Measure from the mount to the waterline and add enough length to keep the motor well submerged in chop.
How much thrust do I need for 17 to 24 foot boats?
Allow about 2 lb of thrust per 100 lb of fully loaded boat weight, with extra margin for tide and wind. Many 17 to 20 foot center consoles use 80 lb motors, and larger boats need the most thrust available.
Should I use a saltwater or freshwater trolling motor?
Use a Riptide motor if you fish in salt or brackish water, since freshwater motors are not built for it.
Do I need a mounting bracket for a center console?
Many center consoles need a mounting plate or bracket to clear the bow rail and provide a flat, strong surface.