Best Kayak Motors For 2025

As a dedicated kayak angler, I’ll admit that something about motorizing a kayak has always felt off. That said, I’ve come a long way over the years. Whether it’s my arthritic knees or my desire to reach previously un-fishable areas, having a kayak motor has become essential to my success on the water. Sure, adding a motor can take a large element of “kayaking” out of kayak fishing, but it also drastically enhances the “fishing” part. As an angler first and kayaker second, that’s what matters most to me. From covering water to helping ease the burden on your body, the benefits of a motor are undeniable.

With established brands like Garmin and YakAttack jumping into the game, it’s clear motors have taken over the industry. This expanding market is helped along by the growing popularity and improving technology of light-weight lithium-ion batteries, which have made electric motors easier to manage and more powerful.

With all these new options and expanded possibilities, it’s important for kayak anglers to understand what motor is ideal for them. I interviewed users and tested some of the most popular options on the market right now to help determine which stand out from the pack.

Best kayak motors for 2026: our top picks

• Best all-around: Newport Vessels NK180 Pro
• Best lightweight: Bixpy K-1
• Most versatile trolling motor: Minn Kota Terrova
• Best all-in-one package: Torqeedo Travel Ultralight
• Highest-performance trolling motor: Power-Pole MOVE PV

Best all-around kayak motor

Newport Vessels NK180 Pro

Buy from:

NEWPORT ECO FISHING AMAZON

Why I love it

One word: balance. The NK180 Pro is the perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and cost. Let’s break down further why this motor is a great choice for high performance without a high price.

The NK180 Pro is a stern-mounted motor but comes with a plate that fits any Power-Pole mounting area on your kayak. While the stern-mounted position is preferred, I’ve found it can be used as a backup motor when mounted to the bow or gunwale and locked into a forward position. This motor has slightly less thrust than some of the beefier options on this list, meaning you can still steer the kayak with your rudder while the motor is running.

On the note of thrust, the 1.8 horsepower equivalent of the NK180 Pro might not sound like much, but it’s perfect for cruising quickly without risking gunning it and dumping yourself overboard. The throttle control is smooth and kicks in instantly; anything more aggressive and you could easily overdo it and end up in the drink. The sensitivity of the throttle lever makes this important. The throttle control itself can be mounted to any rail system and is a simple design that shows battery life, power percentage, and battery type.

When it comes to steering, the NK180 Pro has a fairly basic and easy-to-install wire rigging system. If you want to use the motor for both propulsion and steering, you’ll need to stern mount it and run the wires to your steering method of choice. Most pedal kayak users will probably prefer to connect it to the rudder steering handle, but it can also be attached to any foot steering system. As mentioned earlier, you can also use your kayak rudder and forego steering with the motor itself by simply locking it into the forward position. I found wiring it to my foot steering system was a fantastic way to stay completely hands-free. This comes with the bonus of being able to fight current while facing downstream by going in reverse. The motor essentially acts like back rowing with a paddle or pedals but eliminates the need to use your hands, allowing you to fish downstream far more effectively.

My favorite aspect of this motor is the flexibility to use different batteries. Unlike many kayak-specific motors on the market, you aren’t required to use a proprietary battery system with Newport. While Newport does make an excellent 24V 50Ah low-profile lithium battery, it’s not required for the NK180 Pro to function. Any 24V battery will work, allowing users to switch between lithium-ion or lead-acid. This also means you can significantly increase runtime by upgrading to a battery with higher amp hours.

Bottom line

While it may not do any one thing better than the other motos on this list, the NK180 Pro is a well-rounded motor that hits all the checkboxes kayak anglers are looking for at a reasonable price.

Best lightweight kayak motor

Bixpy K-1

Buy from:

BIXPY ECO FISHING AMAZON

Why I love it

Simplicity is the name of the game for Bixpy, and it doesn’t get much simpler than their 2.8-lb K-1 jet motor. This compact propulsion system can be attached to almost any kayak in a variety of ways with little effort. The only motor on this list that’s powered by a small, jet-style intake system and not a full-size propeller, the K-1 is a lightweight option that still gets you moving with ease.

In addition to its compact design, the versatility of the K-1 is a huge selling point. The motor is attached via four small screws, and how you attach it is basically up to you. There are plenty of mounting options available from both Bixpy and aftermarket companies, and the odds are good that one will work on your kayak. The motor can be mounted on both stern and bow, used in a pedal-drive system or even attached and used with a tiller as an outboard. Personally, I have found that the attachment system of the K-1 works best as an extension on your rudder. This method eliminates the need for a fancy mounting system while also boosting your steering capability. While there are rudder mounts available for sale, the four screw mounting design makes customizing your own mount easy. You could even go one step further and do what I did: Drill four holes in your kayak rudder, screw the K-1 on, and call it day.

The K-1 is a bit limited from a power standpoint, delivering 33-38lbs of thrust (based on battery) and requiring a proprietary Bixpy battery to operate. There are some benefits to a proprietary battery system, simplicity being the biggest. Bixpy also offers a solar-charging system for their batteries, which is a nice option when camping. That said, I’m not a huge fan of being tied to one battery size and style. The range is relatively limited and burns up quickly when running at full power, and, if something goes wrong with the battery, there aren’t a lot of ways to fix it on the water.

Bottom line

If you’re looking for an unobtrusive option to easily motorize a smaller kayak, the Bixpy K-1 is the perfect choice.

Best trolling motor for versatility

Minn Kota Terrova

Buy from:

MINN KOTA ECO FISHING BASS PRO AMAZON

Why I love it

Minn Kota is a trusted name in the trolling motor space for larger boats, and their presence has grown substantially in the kayak world over the last decade. They offer a plethora of motor options that can be used on a kayak, but the Terrova is probably the most balanced and versatile.

While the Terrova is primarily marketed as a full-size boat motor, the 45-inch shaft version has served well for kayaks. Minn Kota has also recently released a 36-inch kayak specific Terrova, which is now seeing its first miles on the water. There’s no way around the fact that a stowable trolling motor will take up space on your boat, but the Terrova is smaller and easier to manage than many others on the market.

When it comes to options, the Terrova is loaded. You can keep it simple and do the base model with a 12V battery, which still delivers 55lbs of thrust and remote-operated steering. Should you choose to upgrade, Minn Kota has a whole host of great add-ons. You can go up to a 36V battery and get 115lbs of thrust, get the GPS-enabled Spot-Lock anchor system, and even include multiple different sonar methods like down-scan and side-imaging.

Minn Kota does offer a saltwater-specific version of the Terrova, called the Riptide Terrova, but one Maryland-based angler I spoke with, Evan Dintaman, uses the base version Terrova in the salt regularly, keeping it in fine working order through washing and maintenance.

Bottom line

If you love add-ons and versatility, the Terrova is the perfect kayak trolling motor for you.

Best all-in-one kayak motor package

Torqeedo Travel Ultralight

Buy from:

TORQEEDO ECO FISHING

Why I love it

Torqeedo may be the most well-known name in kayak and small-craft specific propulsion. They were one of the first to market a true stern-mounted kayak motor and have been at the forefront of electric propulsion for years. The newest Torqeedo Travel Ultralight maintains the reputation as a trusted brand for quality kayak motors.

While the Travel Ultralight can be mounted a few ways, the stern-mounted Power-Pole bracket system is by far the most popular. This allows for both hand- or foot-controlled steering based on kayak model and personal preference. Like Bixpy, Torqeedo relies on a plug-and-play design to maximize efficiency and simplicity. While not very adaptable, the Travel Ultralight is engineered to function exactly as intended every time out. The 3 horsepower equivalent electric motor is fast and smooth, and, according to a snakehead angler I spoke to, it can cut through weedy backwaters quietly with ease.

Like the Bixpy K-1, the Torqeedo Ultralight requires a proprietary battery system to operate. While the proprietary nature of the system can be frustrating in some ways, the custom batteries are designed to maximize kayak performance. They’re reliable and rugged, as well as being waterproof and buoyant. The proprietary system is also hugely beneficial for troubleshooting and service. Torqeedo has nationwide service centers that make it easy to diagnose and fix your motor with minimal hassle.

Having a set battery size and limit can impact range, but Torqeedo seems to have maximized the ability of their batteries. Pensacola-based kayak guide Brandon Barton fishes nearshore and offshore with his Torqeedo and says he rarely goes below 50% on his battery during a full day. Circumstances such as wind, current, and distance will impact your battery life, but if you’re forced to use a custom battery system, it’s nice to know it’s reliable and powerful.

Bottom line

If you want a powerful, plug-and-play kayak motor that’s easy to use and highly efficient, the Torqeedo Travel Ultralight is perfect for you.

Best High-Performance Trolling Motor

Power-Pole MOVE PV

Buy from:

POWER-POLE ECO FISHING

Why I love it

Look, I’ll get it out of the way early, this motor is expensive. There’s no denying that dropping nearly five grand on a motor for a kayak could be considered a bit outrageous. Having said that, it’s worth noting that hardcore kayak anglers have proven they’ll pay for quality and performance. Just look at the number of tournament anglers running forward-facing sonar setups with multiple screens. Even off-the-shelf kayaks have branched into luxury territory, with offerings like the Old Town ePDL+ electric pedal drive and Hobie 360 Mirage Drive bring the cost of a kayak to as much or more than the Power-Pole MOVE motor. High performance doesn’t necessarily have to come at a high price, but with the MOVE PV you definitely get what you pay for.

Let’s start with what makes this motor stand out from others. First, it integrates into the Power-Pole Micro Anchor system seamlessly. This allows you to control both with one remote—saving a ton of hassle. In fact, the remote operation as a whole is a step above other trolling motors.

Next, the MOVE PV uses the wireless C-Monster control system. The remote features instant reverse and an incredibly accurate and responsive GPS anchor lock, as well as advanced GPS navigation options. It also has a variable 20-step speed control, allowing for pinpoint shifts in throttle.

Lastly, the brushless motor and Stealth Steering Drive are the quietest on the market but still powerful enough to cut through almost any vegetation with ease. For Florida-based kayak tournament angler Chris Mitchell, the durability and weedless aspects of the MOVE PV are huge selling points. He says, “It cuts through hydrilla, pads, Kissimmee grass, you name it. I definitely need that in Florida. Also, you never know what you’ll run into in other states, so it’s good to have a till that can handle anything.” Mitchell also notes that the motor is noticeably quieter when side-by-side other trolling setups on tournament days.

Bottom line

If you’re a serious tournament angler or guide looking for top-end performance and cost is no object, look no further than the Power-Pole MOVE PV.

Kayak Motor Buying Advice

There are several factors to consider before investing in a kayak motor. In addition to cost and performance, consider registration, intended use, weight, and mounting preference.

First, you’ll need to assess your kayak and determine if it’s suitable for a motor. Most modern fishing kayaks come with mounting rails, and often a built-in mounting space for things like a Power-Pole or motor. If you’re boat is older or not geared towards fishing, you may need to figure out a different mounting option.

Next, remember that you’ll likely need to register your kayak once it’s motorized. Additionally, while most regulations for non-powered watercraft are fairly lax, once you add a motor you’ll need to abide by all the laws and regulations that apply to powered vessels. This means brushing up on your Coast Guard boating manual and knowing exactly what safety measures to have on board, or you’ll potentially be facing a ticket.

Additionally, think about how you intend to use the motor. While adding a motor expands your options on the water, the odds are good you have a specific use in mind. A freshwater tournament bass angler has different needs than an offshore saltwater angler.

Lastly, where do you want to mount your motor? It’s important to balance your desire for performance with what your kayak can actually handle. From a safety standpoint, you should know what your boat is designed to handle. If your hull is low and your bow tends to dip below the surface at times, a powerful stern-mounted motor could cause you to submerge and spin, even flipping your kayak. Likewise, if your boat doesn’t have a bow mounting system in place, a trolling motor may not be the best choice for you.

Best kayak motor brands

• Newport
• Torqeedo
• Bixpy
• Minn Kota
• Power-Pole
• Garmin

How we tested

I relied on personal experience, sample testing, and interviews with dedicated users to help compile this list. I have been using various motors and propulsion methods on kayaks for over 5 years, testing them on a wide variety of kayak styles. This experience has helped me learn what to look for in a kayak motor and allowed me to really put them through the paces.

In addition to personally rigging and using many of these motors myself, I spoke with experienced kayak anglers who rely on them every trip. I garnered input from tournament anglers, guides, and hardcore recreational anglers alike to help settle on the best options. These surveys provided valuable insight into how each motor performs in real-world scenarios.

Why trust us

My experience over decades of kayak fishing has helped me develop the techniques and preferences I used to create this list. I’ve spent years both paddling and pedaling kayaks before ever adding a motor, allowing me to both appreciate and recognize the distinct benefits they can offer.

Additionally, as a former Florida fishing guide, I don’t just test motors, I make them earn their spot. If it doesn’t help me have more success on the water or add a real benefit, it doesn’t go on my boat. I’ve come to rely on motors and what they allow me to do in a day of fishing, and each one has unique benefits and disadvantages. Using several different brands and styles of motors over the years has allowed me to analyze what each does best. I’m proud to use this knowledge and share my experience to better help you.