Thrust is the standard measurement that describes the propulsion capability of trolling motors, fishing boats, and other watercraft. It also refers to the motor’s power. Thrust is measured in lbs. The canoe paddler often asks how much thrust I need for a canoe trolling motor.
Per the general rules, 2-4 lbs. of thrust are required for every 100 lbs. canoe trolling motor, passenger, and smaller boats. Since the canoe is a smaller, narrower, lightweight watercraft, it doesn’t need much thrust. Therefore, 20-25 lbs. thrust is enough for a medium canoe.
This guide will discuss the amount of thrust for a canoe trolling motor. Also, you will know the impact of thrust on a canoe trolling motor. So, let’s dive into the next paragraph.
How much thrust do I need for a canoe trolling motor?
How many pounds of thrust do I need for a trolling motor? The amount of thrust you need for a canoe trolling motor depends on a few factors. Here, we discuss those factors briefly so that they are easier for you to understand.
Canoe size:
How much thrust you need is mostly depending on the canoe size. A smaller canoe needs less thrust, and a larger canoe needs more thrust. A smaller canoe can perform great on water with 10-15 lbs. thrust. Hence, a medium canoe needs at least 20-25 lbs. thrust for better performance.
Speed:
Thrust affects how fast you want to move through the water. Remember, the more speed you want, the more thrust you need. However, for ideal speed, you must use a canoe with a minimum of 20-25 lbs. thrust.
Canoe weight:
Weight is another important factor in the relationship between canoe and thrust. A heavier-weighted canoe always needs more thrust. Otherwise, it can’t perform well when you paddle.
Trolling motor size:
The larger the size of the trolling motor, the larger the battery required. When you use a large canoe, you will require more thrust. Usually, larger trolling motors need 30-40 lbs. thrust.
Shaft length:
The performance of a thrust is also related to shaft length. With proper shaft length, you will get ideal propulsion from the canoe. It is recommended to submerge the motor section at least 12 inches.
Trolling motor thrust guide for canoe
Here is a chart with ideal thrust measurements according to several weights and boat lengths. Let’s get a detailed idea from the below chart-
| Canoe weight including gear and people | Length of the canoe | Minimum thrust | Recommended thrust |
| Less or equal to 1500 pounds | 14-16 ft | 30 pounds | 55 pounds |
| 2000 pounds | 16-18 ft | 40 pounds | 60 pounds |
| 2500 pounds | 18-20 pounds | 50 pounds | 70 pounds |
| 3000 pounds | 20-22 pounds | 60 pounds | 80 pounds |
| 3500 pounds | 22-24 | 70 pounds | 90 pounds |
| 4000 pounds | 24-26 | 80 pounds | 100 pounds |
| 4500 pounds | 26-28 | 90 pounds | 110 pounds |
| 5000 pounds | 28-30 | 100 pounds | 120 pounds |
| 5500 pounds | 30 plus | 110 pounds | 120 plus |
How do you calculate the amount of thrust you need?
You can calculate the amount of thrust you need depending on two factors. One is canoe weight, and another is water condition.
Boat weight:
It is the easiest way to calculate your required thrust for the canoe. First, remember that you will need a minimum of 2 pounds thrust for every 100 pounds. If your canoe weighs 400 pounds, the thrust formula would be 4000/100 * 2 lbs. = 80 pounds. This formula lets you find the ideal thrust for any weighted canoe.
Water condition:
If you’re paddling and fishing and the location is full of current and wind, you will need a powerful thrust for the canoe. You might require much or less thrust depending on the water condition. As a result, your canoe will perform best against all adverse situations.
FAQ:
How much thrust does a trolling motor need?
A 100 lbs. (including gear and human) required at least 2 lbs. thrust. You should use a more powerful thrust motor if fishing or paddling against strong currents and winds. How much trolling motor thrust do I need? In that case, you can go with a 30-40 lbs. thrust.
How fast will the canoe go with the trolling motor?
A canoe will go incredibly fast compared to manual paddling. How fast it can go depends on the motor power, battery size, voltage, and shaft. Your canoe might go faster using a more powerful battery, including a high voltage battery and required shaft length. By the way, on average, a canoe can go 4.5 mph with a trolling motor.
How big of a trolling motor do I need for a 14 ft Jon boat?
What size thrust trolling motor do I need for Jon’s boat? Jon boat is a heavier craft that is not aerodynamic, either. That is why Jon’s boat needs a larger trolling motor. Note that the larger Jon boat has a bow-mount trolling motor. A 55lb thrust trolling motor is ideal for a 14′ -16′ Jon boat. In the meantime, remember to take a 12v 42″ shaft for a 14′ Jon boat. This measurement can protect your boat from strong wind and current.
What size trolling motor do I need for an 18 ft boat?
If you own an 18 ft boat, it is best to take a powerful trolling motor with 80 lbs. thrust. Although a 24-volt trolling motor is enough for an 18-volt boat, the best practice is to use a 36-volt system. At the same time, remember to choose a 52″- 60″ shaft for your boat.
Final word:
We hope you know how much thrust you need for a canoe trolling motor from our discussion above. It usually depends on the canoe’s size, weight, speed, and shaft length. You can calculate your required thrust for a canoe with 4000/100 * 2 lbs. = 80 formulae. But remember that the average thrust is 2 pounds for every 100 pounds canoe load. If you have further queries about this guide, let us know to update this content.
Hello. My name is Tony K. Henderson. I love kayaking whenever I get the time, and I am very fond of fishing, too. The techniques and knowledge of being a paddler are amusing. I have shared all my knowledge about kayaking and fishing on my website. Feel free to read them and learn more important things and facts about kayaking and fishing.