The Minn Kota Fortrex and Maxxum are both cable-steer bow-mount trolling motors, but they are aimed at different boats. The Fortrex is built for rough water and medium to large boats, with 80 and 112 lb versions and a foot pedal. The Maxxum is a straightforward, durable motor for small to medium boats, from 55 to 80 lb. Both come in freshwater and Riptide saltwater versions. In our range, the Maxxum starts lower in price; the Fortrex adds size and rough-water strength.
Fortrex vs Maxxum at a glance
| Maxxum | Fortrex | |
|---|---|---|
| Steering | Cable | Cable, foot pedal |
| Thrust in our range | 55, 70 and 80 lb | 80 and 112 lb |
| Boats | Small to medium | Medium to large, rough water |
| From (saltwater) | Riptide Maxxum 55, $899.99 | Riptide Fortrex 80, $1,599.99 |
| From (freshwater) | Maxxum 70, $1,049.99 | Fortrex 80, $1,699.99 |
Fortrex vs Maxxum at 80 lb
Both come in 80 lb saltwater versions: the Riptide Maxxum 80 at $1,399.99 and the Riptide Fortrex 80 at $1,599.99. The Fortrex is the heavier-duty choice for large waves and bigger hulls; the Maxxum is the lighter, lower-cost option.
Who should choose the Fortrex?
Anglers with medium to large boats who fish big water and want cable-steer foot-pedal control without electronics. The 112 lb versions suit large boats on 36-volt systems; see 12V vs 24V vs 36V.
Who should choose the Maxxum?
Owners of small to medium boats who want a simple, dependable motor at a lower price.
Shaft length
Larger boats with higher bows need longer shafts so the motor stays submerged in waves, which is part of why the Fortrex suits big water. Check the shaft options in each listing against your bow height; see trolling motor size guide.
Batteries
The 80 lb motors run on 24 volts and the 112 lb motors on 36 volts, so plan for two or three deep cycle batteries; see 24V and 36V trolling motor batteries.
Both are cable steer
Cable steering has a direct feel and no steering motor to fail, but it does not support remote or GPS control. If you want those, look at electric-steer models; see Maxxum vs PowerDrive and foot pedal vs remote.
Choosing between them
If your boat is under about 18 feet and you fish sheltered water, the Maxxum usually covers it. If you run a larger boat, fish big lakes or the coast, or want 112 lb of thrust, the Fortrex is the better match.
Browse
See Minn Kota Fortrex, Minn Kota Maxxum, saltwater trolling motors and trolling motor size guide.
More guides: Fortrex vs Terrova.
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