How to Easily and Safely Put a Trolling Motor on a Kayak

Are you looking to add a trolling motor to your kayak With a trolling motor, you can easily navigate your kayak in both shallow and deep water, and you can fish without having to paddle. In this blog post, we will show you how to install a trolling motor on your kayak. We will also provide tips on choosing the right trolling motor for your needs.

So How To Put A Trolling Motor On A Kayak?

To attach a trolling motor to a kayak, you will need:

– a trolling motor
– a trolling motor mount
– a battery
– a battery switch
– a wiring harness
– a trolling motor prop

Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:

1. Attach the trolling motor mount to the kayak.
2. Connect the battery to the trolling motor.
3. Connect the battery switch to the trolling motor.
4. Connect the wiring harness to the trolling motor.
5. Attach the trolling motor prop to the trolling motor.

Now you’re ready to go trolling!

How To Put A Trolling Motor On A Kayak

What You Will Need

Trolling motor
Motor mount
Paddle
Kayak
Drill
Screws
Penetrating oil
Tape measure
Level

Instructions

1. Install the motor mount:
The first step is to install the motor mount to your kayak. This can be done by drilling holes in the kayak and attaching the mount with screws. Make sure that the mount is level and secure.

2. Attach the trolling motor to the mount:
Once the mount is installed, you can attach the trolling motor to it. Most trolling motors come with a mounting bracket that you can attach to the mount. Once the bracket is attached, you can simply slide the trolling motor onto it.3. Connect the trolling motor to the battery:
The next step is to connect the trolling motor to the battery. Most trolling motors have a battery cable that you can connect to the battery terminals. Make sure that the connection is secure.

4. Test the trolling motor:
Once the trolling motor is connected to the battery, you can test it out. Simply turn on the trolling motor and see if it works properly. If the trolling motor is not working properly, you may need to adjust the throttle or the prop.

Tips

When choosing a trolling motor, make sure to choose one that is the right size for your kayak. A trolling motor that is too powerful for your kayak can be difficult to control.
When installing the motor mount, make sure that the mount is level. A crooked motor mount can cause the trolling motor to wobble and make it difficult to control.
When attaching the trolling motor to the mount, make sure that the connection is secure. A loose connection can cause the trolling motor to come loose and fall off the kayak.
When connecting the trolling motor to the battery, make sure that the connection is secure. A loose connection can cause the trolling motor to overheat and damage itself.
When testing the trolling motor, make sure that you are in a safe area. Do not test the trolling motor in an area where there are people or objects that could be injured by the motor.

Warnings

Always wear a life jacket when kayaking.
Never operate a trolling motor while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Be aware of your surroundings when operating a trolling motor.
Never operate a trolling motor in shallow water.
Never operate a trolling motor near swimmers or other boats.

Also Read THIS: How To Size A Kayak Paddle

FAQs: How to Put a Trolling Motor on a Kayak

What is a trolling motor?

A trolling motor is a small electric motor that is used to propel a kayak. It is typically mounted on the transom of the kayak and is controlled by a hand-held remote.

What are the benefits of using a trolling motor?

Trolling motors offer a number of benefits over paddling a kayak, including:

Increased speed: A trolling motor can allow you to cover more ground in less time. This is especially helpful if you are fishing or hunting and need to reach a specific location quickly.

Less effort: Paddling a kayak can be tiring, especially over long distances. A trolling motor can help you conserve your energy so that you can enjoy your time on the water.

Greater control: A trolling motor allows you to control your speed and direction more precisely than paddling. This can be helpful if you are fishing in a specific area or if you need to avoid obstacles.

What are the different types of trolling motors?

There are two main types of trolling motors:

In-line trolling motors: These motors are mounted on the transom of the kayak and are directly connected to the propeller.

Transom-mounted trolling motors: These motors are mounted on the transom of the kayak, but they are not directly connected to the propeller. Instead, the propeller is connected to the motor via a shaft.

How do I install a trolling motor on my kayak?

Installing a trolling motor on your kayak is a relatively simple process. However, the exact steps will vary depending on the type of trolling motor and the type of kayak.

In general, the following steps will apply:

1. Choose the right trolling motor for your kayak: The size and weight of the trolling motor will need to be appropriate for the size and weight of your kayak.
2. Mount the trolling motor to the kayak: The trolling motor will need to be mounted securely to the kayak so that it does not come loose while you are using it.
3. Connect the trolling motor to the battery: The trolling motor will need to be connected to a battery so that it can operate.

What are some tips for using a trolling motor on a kayak?

Here are a few tips for using a trolling motor on a kayak:

Start slowly and gradually increase your speed: This will help to prevent the kayak from becoming unstable.

Use the trolling motor in conjunction with your paddle: This will help you to maintain control of the kayak.

Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to other boats, swimmers, and obstacles in the water.

Follow all local boating regulations: This will help to keep you safe and avoid fines.