Best Trolling Motor Battery for Small Jon Boats
A small Jon boat needs a reliable trolling motor battery that provides long-lasting power, lightweight design, and durability. Choosing the right battery ensures efficient performance, longer fishing trips, and less hassle with frequent charging. Trolling Motor Battery
Here’s a detailed guide to the best trolling motor batteries for small Jon boats.
Types of Trolling Motor Batteries
There are three main types of trolling motor batteries:
1. Lead-Acid Deep Cycle Batteries (Budget-Friendly)
Affordable – Best for casual anglers. Reliable – Handles steady discharge over time.
Heavy & Bulky – Adds extra weight to a small Jon boat. Shorter Lifespan – Lasts 2-3 years with proper maintenance.
2. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries (Maintenance-Free)
Spill-Proof & Sealed – No risk of leaks or corrosion. Longer Lifespan – Lasts 3-5 years with good care. Handles Rough Waters – Works well for bumpy rides. Heavier than Lithium – Still bulkier than modern alternatives. Slower Charging – Takes longer to recharge.
3. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries (Best Performance)
Lightweight – Up to 70% lighter than lead-acid. Long-Lasting – Lifespan of 10+ years with up to 5,000 charge cycles. Fast Charging – Recharges 5X faster than lead-acid. Deep Discharge Efficiency – Uses 98% of stored power without voltage drops. Higher Upfront Cost – More expensive initially, but saves money long-term.
Top 5 Trolling Motor Batteries for Small Jon Boats
1. Dakota Lithium 12V 50Ah (Best Overall)
Type: Lithium (LiFePO4)
Weight: 17 lbs
Lifespan: 5,000+ cycles
Pros:
Lightweight & Compact – Won’t weigh down your Jon boat. Long Run Time – Powers a 55lb thrust motor for 6-10 hours. 10-Year Warranty – One of the best in the industry. Cons: Expensive upfront cost
Best for anglers who want a high-performance, lightweight, and long-lasting battery.
2. Battle Born 12V 50Ah LiFePO4 (Premium Choice)
Type: Lithium (LiFePO4) Weight: 17.6 lbs Lifespan: 5,000 cycles Pros: Top-tier build quality Can be wired in parallel for more power Built-in Smart Battery Management System (BMS) Cons: High initial cost
Ideal for serious boaters who want maximum durability and power efficiency.
3. Mighty Max 12V 35Ah AGM (Best Budget Option)
Type: AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Weight: 23.15 lbs Lifespan: 3-5 years Pros: Affordable and reliable Maintenance-free, spill-proof design Good for short, low-power trips Cons: Heavy compared to lithium Shorter lifespan than lithium batteries
Best for occasional anglers or those on a tight budget.
4. VMAX MR127 12V 100Ah AGM (Best for Long Trips)
Type: AGM Weight: 68 lbs Lifespan: 8-10 years Pros: Long runtime for extended trips Durable and shock-resistant Spill-proof and maintenance-free Cons: Heavy – Not ideal for small Jon boats Slower charging time
Great for boaters who take long fishing trips and need reliable power.
5. Ampere Time 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 (Best High-Capacity Lithium)
Type: Lithium (LiFePO4) Weight: 24.25 lbs Lifespan: 4,000+ cycles Pros: Ultra-light for a high-capacity battery Fast charging & deep discharge capability Long lifespan, cost-effective in the long run Cons: Higher price than AGM batteries
Perfect for those who want long-lasting power without the extra weight.
Choosing the Best Battery for Your Small Jon Boat
Consider These Factors:
Boat Size & Weight Capacity – Small Jon boats need lightweight batteries to avoid extra load. Trolling Motor Thrust & Voltage – Ensure the battery matches your motor’s voltage (12V, 24V, or 36V). Run Time Needs – If you take long trips, opt for a higher amp-hour (Ah) battery.
Budget vs. Long-Term Savings – Lithium costs more upfront but lasts much longer than lead-acid.
Final Verdict: Which Battery is Best?
Best Overall: Dakota Lithium 12V 50Ah – Lightweight, long-lasting, and powerful.
Premium Pick: Battle Born 12V 50Ah – Exceptional durability and efficiency. Best Budget: Mighty Max 12V 35Ah – Affordable and reliable for short trips.
Best for Long Trips: VMAX MR127 12V 100Ah – Provides extended power but is heavy. Best High-Capacity Lithium: Ampere Time 12V 100Ah – Lightweight and long-lasting power.
Conclusion: If you want the best performance, long lifespan, and lightweight design, a Lithium (LiFePO4) battery is the way to go. If you’re on a budget, AGM batteries offer a decent balance of reliability and affordability.