Mounting A Trolling Motor on A Canoe (Best #1 DIY Guide)

My last blog was about the journey with my sibling, Alex, regarding the guide to paint a canoe. We hope you enjoyed that much and took the benefits.

A few weeks later, we identified the best canoe motor mount and researched a lot to get the best motor for Canoe. Initially, we thought to try for the canoe mud motor or mounting an outboard motor for our Canoe.

Yet, mounting a trolling motor on a canoe can be a useful addition to any watercraft, as it provides an electric-powered option for propulsion. It is also especially helpful when paddling against a strong current or wind or covering long distances.

Consequently, we offer you our DIY guide: mounting a trolling motor on a Canoe.

Tips: Learn more about the best wooden canoe seat and canoe keel! Click here to learn about overall canoeing and keep canoeing gears safe.

How to Kayak Trolling Motor Mount – Popular Three Methods

You must choose the mounting location and pick the best trolling motor and installation method for your Canoe.

Each of the three methods for mounting a trolling motor on a canoe – clamp-on mount, bow-mounted bracket, and transom-mounted plate – has pros and cons.

The Kayak motor mount or the best size trolling motor mount will depend on your particular requirements and preferences.

You can set it by following pretty simple methods on the main engine, transom, stern, or bow.

The Bow Mount Bracket Method

It’s a popular option to use a bow-mounted bracket to attach the trolling motor to the front of the Canoe.

Pros :

The mounting bracket provides a more secure and stable mount for the motor, which can be especially important when navigating rough or choppy waters.
It requires drilling and installation.
Bow mounted trolling motor method also allows for better maneuverability and control of the Canoe when using the trolling motor.
The installation can be more involved than the clamp-on mount, and removing or repositioning the motor may not be as easy.

The Clamp-on Mount Method

This mount type usually comes with a simple, easy-to-install bracket that clamps onto the gunwale or transom of the Canoe. The trolling motor is then attached to the bracket, providing a stable and secure mount for the motor.

Pros :

It is generally the easiest and quickest method, requiring no drilling or installation of brackets.
You can effortlessly eliminate and move the motor whenever necessary.

Cons :

Unlike other methods, it’s not more stable or secure.
Perhaps, it does not work well on certain canoes.

The Transom Mount Plate Method

It’s The third option to use a transom-mounted plate to attach the trolling motor to the back of the Canoe.

Pros :

The transom mount trolling motor method provides a sturdy and secure mount for the motor, with the added benefit of better weight distribution towards the back of the Canoe.
Ideally, the installation process is exclusively convenient for larger or heavier motors such as the Minn Kota saltwater trolling motor.
However, the Transom motor mounting plate installation can be more involved than the clamp-on mount.

Cons :

It may not be suitable for any paddle boat, inflatable Kayak, smaller boat, bass boat, fishing kayak, or all Newport vessels.

How We Applied the Bow Mount Trolling Motor on Canoe?

Here’s an example of how Alex and I tried to install a trolling motor on our Canoe using the bow-mounted bracket method. Here we will go our DIY trolling motor mount journey step by step below :

Step # One: Initially, we planned everything and inspected what motors would be adjustable with particular watercraft.

Step # Two: We started by choosing the location where we wanted to mount the bracket.

Step # Three: Took a final verdict on where the motor and mount must go ( bow, engine, or stern).

Step # Four: After a minimal debate, we finally decided to mount base just behind the bow of the Canoe.

Step # Five: It ensures the preferred location, allowing us to control the motor easily and providing decent maneuverability.

Step # Six: We assembled all the utensils, such asTrolling motor, Drill and drill bits, Bow-mounted bracket kit, Screwdriver, and Wrench or pliers.

Step # Seven: Using a drill and drill bits, we created the necessary holes in the Canoe where the bracket will be attached. We then attached the bracket to the Canoe using the hardware provided in the kit, ensuring it was securely fastened and won’t move or shift during use.

Step # Eight: Once the bracket was in place, Alex Installed the mounting clamp. He slid the trolling motor onto it and used the mounting hardware to protect it.

To ensure the mount’s security, Alex tightened the clamp securely to hold the motor in place, screwed and attached it.

Step # Nine: Alex also ensured the motor was level and the propeller fully submerged in the water. It will perform well if the motor is at the correct water depth.

Step # Ten: Bolts naturally attach the trolling motor to the boat or mounting bracket. Securing the motor with bolts ensures that it will stay in place and not move around during operation or when encountering rough waters.

Furthermore, bolts allow easy and secure motor detachment for maintenance or storage.

Step # Eleven: We followed the manufacturer’s instructions cautiously while connecting the power cables from the motor to our boat’s battery.

Step # Twelve: It’s mandatory to Talk to a professional or follow the product guide to avoid any damage or safety hazards.

Step # Thirteen: Next, we turned on the motor and adjusted the speed to see how it performed. We were pleased that the motor runs smoothly and provides good speed and control.

Step # Fourteen: Later, Alex took the Canoe out for a test run to see how it was handled and was happy with the results.

Step # Fifteen: We tested the battery before going to the sea to ensure it was secured. Your inspection also guarantees to prevent the motor battery from moving around in the Canoe.

Step # Sixteen: Overall, the bow-mounted bracket method provides a sturdy and secure mount for the motor, with the added benefit of better maneuverability and control.

Step # Seventeen: While the installation involved more than the clamp-on mount method, we were pleased with the results and confident that the motor would perform well on future outings.

Editor’s Note: All the mentioned general instructions and steps vary for mounting a trolling motor on a Canoe on a specific model or brand. Moreover, adjusting the motor’s speed and direction is mandatory for confirming its good control.

Electric or Gas What Type of Canoe Motor will Best for You?

Well, we write for your assistance, yet, it ultimately depends on your primary necessities and likings.

Electric Trolling Motor

These are typically quieter.
Motorized Kayak is more environmentally friendly.
It requires less maintenance than gas motors.
They also tend to be lighter and more maneuverable, which can be advantageous if you navigate narrow waterways or areas with many obstacles.
Additionally, anglers often favor electric motors because they create less disturbance in the water.
Rod holders allow the angler to keep their fishing rod secure and in position while they operate the trolling motor or tend to other tasks on the boat.
An electric motor will help with a special type of bass fishing and help avoid spooking fish.

Gas Motor

Gas canoe motors tend to be more powerful for Kayak fishing.
It can propel a canoe at faster speeds.
They can also run longer without needing to be recharged, making them a good option for extended trips or limited access to electricity.
Conceivably, Gas motors may harm the surrounding environment as they are larger, creating more noise or emissions.

How to Mount A Trolling Motor on A Canoe

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 01: What Size Trolling Motor We Picked?

Answer: No wonder picking the actual size of a trolling motor depends on the size and weight of your desired boats.

We followed to have on behalf of one hundred pounds of the boat weight, and the motor should be a minimum of two pounds of thrust.

We recommend you also consider the type of water you’ll be navigating and the conditions you expect to encounter.

Question 02: How many hours can a trolling motor run?

Answer: The number of hours a trolling motor can run depends on several factors, including the battery capacity, the speed setting, and the conditions in which it is used.

Typically, a fully charged trolling motor battery can last 4-6 hours at full speed and up to Ten or more at lower speeds.

Bonus Tip
It’s always best to carry an extra battery or a charger when going out for extended periods to ensure you don’t run out of power while on the water.

Question 03: Why foot pedal is needed on a trolling motor?

Answer: A foot pedal is needed on a trolling motor because it allows the user to control the speed and direction of the motor with their foot, leaving their hands free for other tasks such as fishing or navigating.

The foot pedal provides a convenient and efficient way to operate the trolling motor, making it easier to maneuver the boat and adjust the speed.

Question 04: How are PVC pipes connected to the trolling motor?

Answer: PVC pipes can be connected to a trolling motor with U-Bolts or other clamps that secure the pipe to the motor housing, allowing for improved maneuverability, stability, and protection from underwater hazards.

Sum Up

Adding a trolling motor to a canoe can affect its stability, but it depends on the Canoe’s size and the trolling motor’s size.

If the Canoe is large enough to handle the additional weight, and the trolling motor is installed properly and balanced, the Canoe should remain stable.

Before mounting a trolling motor on a Canoe, it’s important to distribute weight evenly and test the stability at low speeds before going at full speed.