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.
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.