Do you love to use a canoe for paddling or fishing? It is important to have an assistant for perfect paddling around the water. But getting a person for paddling is difficult. So, a trolling motor can be your great buddy. The trolling motor will allow you to spend much time on the water with less paddling. But the question is, can you put a trolling motor on a canoe?
Yes, you can put a trolling motor on the canoe. Since trolling motors are smaller in size, they are most suitable for it. The trolling motor can run with a smaller rechargeable battery or small gas tank.
This guide will discuss using a trolling motor with your canoe. What size trolling motor can you put on a canoe? And what is the mounting process for the trolling motor with the canoe? So, let’s know what the next step is.
What size of trolling motor can you put on a canoe?
A larger trolling motor is only sometimes good for the canoe. Canoe length, weight, and traditional square stern are major considerations. Here are some considerations for choosing an ideal trolling motor for the canoe.
Note that the battery-powered motor is measured in thrust pounds, and the gas-powered trolling motor is measured in horsepower. You need to know your canoe’s total load. Then, it would be easier to determine the perfect motor horsepower or thrust.
There is a general rule of thumb if you are considering using an electric motor with thrust power. On the contrary, a 2 HP gas-powered trolling motor can operate maximum canoe. It would help to have 2 pounds thrust for every 100 canoe weight.
How to put a trolling motor on a canoe? – The mounting process
How to put a trolling motor on a canoe? There are two primary trolling motor mounting processes for the canoe. One is bow mounting, and the other is transom mounting. So, think about where you will use the canoe and how you will use and control the trolling motor.
Let’s learn the simple process of mounting an electric trolling motor. A bow mount is better than a transom mount because it allows a canoe to pull over the water. Most paddlers love to sit on the stern, so it is difficult to mount near the stern.
Step 1:
Arrange all essential materials. Here is the list of essential materials to install your trolling motor.
- 4′ piece of the flat bar (1)
- 2 x 4 hardwood cut (1)
- 1/4″ x 6″ carriage bolts
- 4 inches 2 X 6 cut (1)
- Wing nuts and washers (2)
- 2-1/2″ wood screws (4)
- 1/4″ drill bit (1)
Step 2:
Choose the right canoe and find an appropriate place to mount the canoe trolling motor. The motor should be set up behind the stern seat.
Step 3:
Measure inside the canoe hull and cut some parts to fit the trolling motor perfectly. Then, keep 8 to 10 inches before cutting the top wood.
Step 4:
Dry the top 2 x 4 for the right fit and mark inside the holes to attach bolts. Then, transfer the holes to the bottom of the canoe.
Step 5:
Use 2 x 6 block wood screws and pre-drills at the side of the top motor. Now, enter the carriage bolts inside the holes at the top and bottom.
Step 6:
This step will be easier if you fit the block and brace inside the canoe. Then, mount the trolling motor on the 2 x 6 block.
Will you use the trolling motor in freshwater or saltwater?
Most trolling motors are designed to perform in fresh and saltwater. It is highly recommended that a specific trolling motor for saltwater be used. Many paddlers need to consider this factor and choose the wrong trolling motor.
Remember that saltwater trolling motor boats are specially designed. It can protect the trolling motor from the corrosive elements of salt water. The ware trolling motor is made from high-quality stainless steel. Besides, the electrical system is covered with more secure seals to prevent saltwater corrosion. Due to the over-protective system, the saltwater trolling motor is slightly expensive. You can use a saltwater trolling motor in freshwater if you want, but not a freshwater one in saltwater.
How to Make a Canoe Trolling Motor Mount
FAQ:
How fast will the canoe go with the trolling motor?
A canoe can go 4.5 mph with a trolling motor. Remember that 4.5 mph is a canoe’s maximum speed when connected to a trolling motor. However, your canoe can go faster if it connects with heavier thrusts. The regular canoe and kayak require a maximum of 4.5 mph. You will only need higher speed for heavier canoes and rough weather.
Can you motorize a canoe?
Yes, you can motorize a canoe motor. In this case, you can use gas-powered and electric-powered motors. Note that gas motors are comparatively heavier and larger and create a lot of noise. On the other hand, an electric-powered motor is lighter, smaller, and creates less noise than a gas-powered motor.
Is It Legal to Put a Trolling Motor on a Canoe?
Yes, putting a trolling motor on a canoe is completely legal. You can use any trolling motor with your canoe. Although using trolling motors is not illegal, there are some regulations. Remember that the registration rules and system are unique for individual states. Also, safety issues should be considered before choosing a trolling motor.
How long does a trolling motor last on a canoe?
Trolling motors last about 2-3 years, so they are considered an affordable option for the paddler. With simple maintenance, a trolling motor can last up to 4-5 years. Also, note that the battery can last about 80 minutes at high speed and about 12 hours at a slower speed.
Last words:
We hope you understand that you can put a trolling motor on a canoe. A trolling motor is a smaller, lightweight gear that can make paddling and fishing easier. You can easily put a trolling motor on your canoe. It is very simple and takes a few steps. Since the trolling motor is lightweight and smaller, the installation is convenient, too.
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.