In recent years, the use of lithium trolling motor batteries has become increasingly popular among fishing and water sports enthusiasts. These batteries have changed the way trolling motors work due to their amazing power output and long-lasting performance. If you are considering investing in lithium trolling motor batteries, you may have some questions. Let’s dive into the intricacies of these batteries and answer your questions!

Are Lithium Trolling Motor Batteries Worth the Investment?

For boaters seeking high performance, extended run time, and long-term durability, lithium iron phosphate trolling motor batteries are undoubtedly worth the investment.

With their high energy density, lightweight construction, and longer lifespan compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries are an excellent choice for powering trolling motors.

While they may cost more upfront, the benefits they offer in terms of run time, maintenance, and overall performance make them a worthwhile investment for avid anglers and boating enthusiasts.

Which lithium batteries do trolling motors use?

Lithium batteries are a great choice for powering trolling motors due to their high energy density, lightweight construction, and long life. When choosing a lithium battery for a trolling motor, it is important to consider its voltage, capacity, and overall performance.

Most trolling motors operate at 12 volts. 12V lithium trolling motor batteries are widely available and commonly used. However, it is critical to match the battery capacity to the power needs of your trolling motor. Higher capacity batteries last longer, ensuring you are on the water longer.

A typical 100 amp-hour capacity can power a high-amp trolling motor for a full day. With more power on board, you won’t have to worry about ending your fishing day early when your electric trolling motor battery dies, which is common with lead-acid batteries.

Lithium batteries made specifically for 24-volt and 36-volt trolling motors provide more power and last longer. These batteries are often configured with multiple lithium cells to provide the required voltage. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and specifications to ensure compatibility between the battery and trolling motor system.

How long can a 12 volt lithium trolling motor battery run?

The duration a 12 volt deep cycle trolling motor battery can run depends on several factors, including the battery capacity (measured in amp-hours or Ah), the size and power of your trolling motor, the speed at which you operate the motor, and the battery's state of charge.

To estimate the run time, you need to know the amp-hour (Ah) rating of the battery. Let's say you have a 100Ah lithium trolling motor battery.

To calculate the run time, divide the battery's amp-hour rating by the motor's current draw. For example, if your trolling motor draws 50 amps per hour:

Run Time (Hours) = Battery Capacity (Ah) / Current Draw (A)

Run Time = 100Ah / 50A Run Time = 2 Hours

This means that under ideal conditions, and with a continuous current draw of 50 amps per hour, a 100Ah battery can run your trolling motor for about 2 hours before needing to be recharged.

In another scenario, a fully charged 12-volt lithium battery will power a trolling motor for approximately 6-8 hours at 50 pounds of thrust without continuous current draw.

Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and many factors will affect the actual run time of the battery. These factors may include wind, water conditions, the weight of the boat, and the throttle setting you are using.

It is always a good practice to monitor the charge level of the battery during use and charge as needed to avoid deep discharge, which can affect the life of the battery. Additionally, it is worth noting that running the battery at higher speeds or with higher current draw will result in a reduced run time.

How to Charge a Trolling Motor Battery on the Water?

With the right equipment and preparation, it is possible to charge a trolling motor battery on the water. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to charge your battery while on a lake, bay, or other body of water:

1.Make sure your boat has an onboard charger or a charger that is compatible with your trolling motor battery type. Lithium batteries require a specific charging protocol, so make sure your charger is compatible with LiFePO4 batteries.

2.Connect the charger to the battery following the manufacturer's instructions. The positive cable should be connected to the positive terminal and the negative cable should be connected to the negative terminal.

3.Power the charger using a car charger or portable generator. Make sure the power source is appropriate for the charger's voltage requirements.

4.Monitor the charging process regularly. Most car chargers have a built-in indicator light or display that shows the battery's charge status. Make sure the battery is charging within the optimal voltage and current range.

5.Once the battery is fully charged, disconnect the charger, making sure to unplug the cables in the correct order to prevent any potential hazards.

Solar chargers are also a good option if you plan to spend a lot of time on the water. They are relatively inexpensive and can slowly charge your battery while you're out on the water.

Make sure your battery is fully charged before you go. This will give you more runtime, and you won't have to worry about running out of power. Remember to follow safety precautions and don't overcharge your battery. Also, be sure to keep your battery cool, as batteries lose their charge faster in hot temperatures. If your battery overheats, move it to a cooler location immediately.

Are lithium trolling motor batteries safe?

Yes, lithium trolling motor batteries are considered safe if used and managed properly. They have advanced safety features such as thermal sensors, protection against overcharging, and internal circuitry that avoids issues such as short circuits and voltage fluctuations. These safety measures ensure that the battery operates at its best while minimizing the risk of accidents.

It is important to note that while lithium batteries are generally safe, all batteries present some degree of risk. To ensure safety, it is important to follow the manufacturer's installation, charging, and storage guidelines. Additionally, to ensure optimal performance and avoid any safety hazards, always use a compatible battery charger.

Lithium trolling batteries have revolutionized the boating industry with their superior power output, long-lasting performance, and lightweight design. There are many benefits to choosing lithium-ion technology, including increased boat speed, improved fuel efficiency, longer run times, and longer battery life. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, use a compatible charger, and practice proper battery handling to ensure safety and optimize battery performance.