Small boat motors are essential for anyone who enjoys boating, fishing, or other water activities. These motors are designed to power small boats and are available in a wide range of sizes and styles. Whether you need a motor for a small fishing boat or a larger vessel, there is a small boat motor available to suit your needs.
When shopping for a small boat motor, there are several things to consider. One of the most critical factors to keep in mind is the size of your boat. The motor should be powerful enough to move your boat through the water, but not so large that it becomes difficult to maneuver. Other factors to consider include the type of water you will be boating in, the weight of your boat, and the type of fuel the motor requires.
At our company, we understand the importance of having a reliable small boat motor. That’s why we have spent countless hours researching and testing a variety of motors to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value. Our team of experts has evaluated each motor based on a range of factors, including power, fuel efficiency, ease of use, and overall quality.
If you’re in the market for a small boat motor, look no further than our selection of top-rated motors. We are confident that you will find the perfect motor to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Small Boat Motors Buyers Guide
| Motor Size | Match motor power with boat size and weight. |
| Water Type | Choose motor suitable for freshwater or saltwater. |
| Fuel Type | Decide between electric or gas-powered motors. |
| Power | Balance power output and fuel efficiency. |
| Ease of Use | Prioritize user-friendly features like adjustable handles and easy installation. |
| Durability and Quality | Opt for motors with durable materials and quality construction. |
| Noise Level | Consider motor noise, especially for fishing or quiet environments. |
| Additional Features | Look for beneficial extras like LED indicators and safety switches. |
| Price and Value | Ensure features and performance justify the cost. |
| Warranty and Support | Choose motors with strong warranties and reliable customer support. |
By prioritizing these features, you can confidently choose a boat motor tailored to your requirements
Best Small Boat Motors
We know that finding the right small boat motor can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options available in the market. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing for you, so you can spend more time enjoying your time on the water. Below is our list of the best small boat motors on the market, carefully selected based on their performance, reliability, and value for money.
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Motor w/LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft Motor 55lb Thrust
If you’re looking for a versatile trolling motor for small and medium-sized watercraft, the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Motor is a great option. With its efficient power and 55lbs of thrust, this motor provides excellent power and efficiency for any boater. The high-quality build allows the motor to run all day long without overheating or making noise to spook fish.
Pros
- The 30-inch shaft, 5 LED battery meter, 6-inch telescoping tiller handle, and 3 blade propeller make this motor easy to use and versatile.
- The mount angle, height, and direction can all be adjusted and locked into place when needed.
- This trolling motor is designed to be paired with one (1) 12-Volt Lead-Acid Deep Cycle or Marine battery (battery not included).
Cons
- The top speed of this motor is about 4mph, but it depends on your boat shape, weight, water, wind, and other factors.
- The battery meter shows different levels of charge based on which speed you’re on, which can be a bit misleading.
- The motor can be a bit noisy, which may scare away nearby fish.
Overall, the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Motor is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and efficient trolling motor. Its ease-of-operation, quality, and craftsmanship make this motor the top choice in its class.
SEANESZTI 2-Stroke 3.6HP Outboard Motor
If you’re looking for a small boat motor with a combination of water-cooling and air-cooling, the SEANESZTI 2-Stroke 3.6HP Outboard Motor is a great option. It’s lightweight, fuel-efficient, and easy to operate, making it perfect for small boats and short distances.
Pros
- The maximum output of 2.6kW and 3.6hp provides unparalleled speed, and the streamlined design of a 6.7” three-blade propeller can reduce water resistance and provide stronger power during operation.
- Made of lightweight and sturdy aluminum alloy, combined with spray painting technology, it provides excellent corrosion resistance, wear resistance, heat resistance, shock resistance, deformation resistance, and other properties.
- The throttle lever directly controls acceleration and steering, and the step-less speed regulation allows you to easily adjust the running speed, combined with the clutch, bringing you a more comfortable and convenient user experience.
Cons
- The large anechoic cover above can isolate most of the noise, but the sound of the outboard engine running around 80 decibels can still be a bit loud for some people.
- The suspension tilt adjustment pins and anti-vortex plates reduce inclination and vortices, but they may not be enough to ensure smooth operation in rough waters.
- The fuel consumption rate of about 0.3 gal/h is relatively low, but it may still be a bit high for some people who want to save more on fuel expenses.
We recently tested the SEANESZTI 2-Stroke 3.6HP Outboard Motor on our small fishing boat, and we were impressed with its performance. The motor started quickly and safely, and we were able to adjust the running speed easily with the throttle lever and step-less speed regulation. The combination of water-cooling and air-cooling maintained the optimal temperature, and we didn’t experience any overheating issues during our short trip.
The motor was also lightweight and easy to install on our boat, and we didn’t have any problems with corrosion or wear after several uses. However, we did notice that the noise level was still a bit high, even with the anechoic cover, and we had to be extra vigilant to hear other movements on the water.
Overall, if you’re looking for a small boat motor that’s easy to operate, fuel-efficient, and has a combination of water-cooling and air-cooling, the SEANESZTI 2-Stroke 3.6HP Outboard Motor is a good choice. It’s not perfect, but it’s a reliable and affordable option for those who want to enjoy the fun of navigation without breaking the bank.
CUKUSIN Outboard Engine
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful small boat motor, the CUKUSIN Outboard Engine is a great option. With its safety features, luxury handle, and impressive performance, this motor is a great choice for a variety of watercraft.
Pros
- The Kill Urgent Stop Switch and Safety Lanyard Tether Cord provide superior safety for you and your passengers on the water.
- The luxury handle is designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip, with high-quality speed control and cruise control.
- This outboard motor provides strong horsepower and superior performance, with a maximum output of 2.8kw(7HP) and a maximum speed of 19km/h.
Cons
- The motor is heavier than expected, which may make it difficult to transport and maneuver.
- The engine can be quite loud, which may be a drawback for some users.
- The propeller size may not be suitable for larger boats or those with specific performance requirements.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the CUKUSIN Outboard Engine on a small fishing boat, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The safety features, including the Kill Urgent Stop Switch and Safety Lanyard Tether Cord, gave us peace of mind while out on the water. The luxury handle was also a nice touch, as it provided a comfortable and secure grip while controlling the boat’s speed.
In terms of performance, the CUKUSIN Outboard Engine did not disappoint. It provided strong horsepower and was able to reach a maximum speed of 19km/h. We also appreciated the easy access to the engine for maintenance and inspection, thanks to the easy pull off engine cover with push-button latch.
However, we did notice that the motor was heavier than expected, which made it difficult to transport and maneuver. Additionally, the engine can be quite loud, which may be a drawback for some users. Finally, the propeller size may not be suitable for larger boats or those with specific performance requirements.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and powerful small boat motor, the CUKUSIN Outboard Engine is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of its weight and noise level, and make sure the propeller size is suitable for your specific needs.
Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor 30-pound Thrust, 30-inch Shaft, 12-volt
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile small boat motor, the Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor is worth considering.
Pros
- The motor has five forward speeds and two reverse speeds, making it easy to maneuver your boat through different water conditions.
- The weedless two-blade propeller is designed to allow your boat to move easily through the water and weeds, which is a great feature for fishing or exploring shallow waters.
- The motor is compatible with various styles of small watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, inflatables, Jon boats, and more.
Cons
- The motor is not designed for heavy-duty use, so if you need a motor for more demanding activities, you may need to consider a different option.
- Some users have reported issues with the propeller coming off, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
- The motor is not particularly quiet, so if you’re looking for a silent motor, this may not be the best choice.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor on a small Jon boat, and we were impressed with its performance. The motor was easy to install and operate, and we appreciated the range of speed options available.
One of the standout features of this motor is the weedless propeller, which allowed us to navigate through shallow waters and weeds without any issues. We also appreciated the extendable tiller, which made it easy to control the motor from different positions on the boat.
While the motor is not particularly quiet, we didn’t find the noise level to be overly disruptive. However, if you’re looking for a completely silent motor, you may want to consider other options.
Overall, we would recommend the Watersnake Tracer Transom Mount Trolling Freshwater Motor for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile small boat motor. Just be aware of its limitations and potential issues with the propeller.
Bacacoo Outboard Engine
We highly recommend the Bacacoo Outboard Engine for those looking for a reliable small boat motor that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- The CDI ignition system makes starting the motor quick and safe.
- The high-efficiency engine water cooling system allows for increased driving speed and improved efficiency.
- The aluminum main rod makes for a lightweight motor that is easy to drive.
Cons
- The 2-stroke engine may not be as fuel-efficient as some 4-stroke models.
- The maximum horsepower of 3.6 may not be enough for larger boats.
- The motor is manual, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more automated experience.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Bacacoo Outboard Engine on a small fishing boat, and we were impressed with its performance. The CDI ignition system allowed us to start the motor quickly and easily, and the high-efficiency engine water cooling system helped us to reach our desired speed without any issues.
One of the standout features of the Bacacoo Outboard Engine is its inline propeller design. This design, combined with the high-speed engine, allowed us to more effectively play the outboard exhaust and thrust, resulting in a smoother ride overall.
While the 2-stroke engine may not be as fuel-efficient as some 4-stroke models, we found that the Bacacoo Outboard Engine was still relatively energy-saving and money-saving, thanks to its international standard air intake system and compression ratio.
Overall, we believe that the Bacacoo Outboard Engine is a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable small boat motor. Its lightweight design and easy-to-drive features make it a great choice for beginners, while its high-efficiency engine and inline propeller design make it a solid option for more experienced boaters as well.
VEVOR Electric Trolling Motor 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted 24-Volt Boat Motor Variable Speed 10 LED Indicator for Kayak, Small Fishing Boats (30″ Shaft)
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient small boat motor, the VEVOR Electric Trolling Motor is a great option.
Pros
- The 55lb thrust motor provides excellent power and efficiency for small to medium boats.
- The variable speed and adjustable handle allow for precise control of the boat’s moving speed and navigation through water and weeds.
- The upgraded design with a stainless steel shaft, copper motor, and three-bladed propeller enhances efficiency and service life, making it suitable for saltwater or freshwater sailing.
Cons
- This trolling motor requires one 24V or two 12V connected in series Lead-Acid Deep Cycle or Lithium Deep Cycle battery for operation, which is not included and needs to be purchased separately.
- The motor’s depth and angle adjustment may require some getting used to, and it may take some time to find the right settings for your fishing demands.
- The audible notification when the battery level drops below 20% may be too loud for some users.
We recently tested the VEVOR Electric Trolling Motor on a small fishing boat, and we were impressed with its performance. The motor provided enough power and speed to move the boat smoothly through the water, even in windy conditions.
The variable speed control allowed us to adjust the boat’s speed precisely, making it easier to navigate through weeds and other obstacles. The adjustable handle was also a great feature, making it comfortable to use for long periods.
The motor’s upgraded design with a stainless steel shaft, copper motor, and three-bladed propeller proved to be durable and efficient, even when sailing on saltwater. The 10 LED battery indicator was also helpful, making it easy to check the battery status and avoid running out of power while fishing.
Overall, we highly recommend the VEVOR Electric Trolling Motor for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient small boat motor. It may have a few minor drawbacks, but its performance and features make it a great value for its price.
Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut
We highly recommend the Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut for anyone looking to reduce prop noise and vibration and improve the performance of their trolling motor.
Pros
- Easy installation – no tools needed
- Built-in cooling ports for longer battery and trolling motor life
- Top-quality manufacturing and materials
Cons
- Only suitable for MinnKota 80, 101, and 112 lb models
- May not fit with certain propellers, such as the Kipawa 3 blade prop
- Some users did not notice a significant reduction in noise and vibration
We recently installed the Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut on our MinnKota 112 lb model and were impressed with the results. The installation process was quick and easy, requiring no tools. The built-in cooling ports kept the operating temperature low, which should extend the life of both the battery and the trolling motor.
The Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut is manufactured from 6061 Billet Aluminum and has an anodized finish for corrosion resistance. We were impressed with the quality of the materials and the precision of the machining.
While the Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut is only suitable for MinnKota 80, 101, and 112 lb models, it is custom fit for these models and provides excellent performance. However, it may not fit with certain propellers, such as the Kipawa 3 blade prop. Some users did not notice a significant reduction in noise and vibration, but we found that it made a noticeable difference in the performance of our trolling motor.
Overall, the Camoo Eliminator Trolling Motor Prop Nut is a great investment for anyone looking to improve the performance of their trolling motor and reduce noise and vibration. With a 12-month warranty and a satisfaction guarantee, there’s no reason not to give it a try.
Small Boat Motors Final Thoughts
When looking to purchase a small boat motor, there are a few key factors to consider. We recommend taking into account the following features to ensure you choose the best product for your needs.
Motor Type
The first factor to consider is the type of motor. There are two main types of small boat motors: electric and gas-powered. Electric motors are more environmentally friendly and quieter, but they may not have as much power as gas-powered motors. Gas-powered motors are typically more powerful and better for longer trips, but they are louder and produce emissions.
Motor Size
The size of the motor is another important factor to consider. The size of the motor you need will depend on the size of your boat and how you plan to use it. It’s important to choose a motor that is powerful enough to propel your boat, but not so powerful that it causes damage.
Shaft Length
The shaft length of the motor is also important to consider. The length of the shaft will depend on the size of your boat and the height of the transom. It’s important to choose a motor with a shaft length that is appropriate for your boat to ensure that it operates efficiently.
Steering
The type of steering on the motor is another factor to consider. Some motors come with tiller steering, which is a handle that extends from the motor and allows you to steer the boat. Others come with remote steering, which allows you to steer the boat from a separate console.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use your boat for long periods of time. Look for a motor that is fuel-efficient to save money on fuel costs and reduce your environmental impact.
Warranty
Finally, it’s important to consider the warranty when choosing a small boat motor. Look for a motor that comes with a warranty to protect your investment and ensure that you are covered in case of any defects or issues.
By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best small boat motor for your needs.
