7 Best Trolling Motors with 8 Speed, Compared

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You need reliable freshwater propulsion with battery monitoring BODIOO 68lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor The BODIOO 68lb motor offers 8 speed settings and includes battery monitoring for freshwater use.
• You want the strongest pull for heavy boats VEVOR 36-Inch 86 lb Transom Trolling Motor The VEVOR model provides 86 lb of thrust and 8 speed settings for larger vessels.
• You require robust power for saltwater fishing SEANESZTI 80 lb 12V Saltwater Trolling Motor The SEANESZTI 80lb motor delivers high thrust and 8 speed settings for saltwater conditions.
• You prioritize portability for small boat light duty PEXMOR 36lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor The PEXMOR 36lb motor weighs 16 pounds and features 8 speed settings for portability.

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

BODIOO 68lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Best for: Freshwater kayak propulsion with battery monitoring

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

68 lb

Shaft Length

30 in

Mount Type

Transom mount

Control

Telescoping handle

Voltage

12V

View on Amazon: BODIOO 68lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor Affiliate link

The BODIOO 68lb trolling motor delivers reliable propulsion for kayaks and small boats. It features 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse) controlled via a twist-grip handle. The 30-inch shaft and transom mount suit standard vessels. An LED display monitors battery voltage, while a low-noise design helps keep underwater sound minimal. It weighs 20.72 lbs and includes a 6-inch adjustable handle for ergonomic control.

Pros

• 68 lb thrust provides strong auxiliary propulsion
• 8 speed settings with 5 forward and 3 reverse
• Integrated LED voltage display for battery monitoring
• Low noise operation around 50dB
• Collapsible handle aids compact storage

Cons

• Not suitable for saltwater use
• Requires a 12V battery with at least 50Ah capacity
• Transom mount only, no bow or side options

Good fit if

• You need a reliable motor for freshwater kayaks
• You want visual battery monitoring via LED display
• You prefer a compact motor with collapsible handle

Skip if

• You plan to use the motor in saltwater
• You need a 24V or 36V system
• You require bow or side mounting options

Verdict: BODIOO 68lb 8-Speed Trolling Motor is a practical freshwater option for kayakers needing reliable thrust and battery monitoring. It fits users who value low noise and compact storage.

2 Best white

BODIOO 55 lb 30-Inch Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Best for: Kayak anglers needing lightweight freshwater propulsion

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

55 lb

Shaft Length

30 in

Mount Type

Transom

Water Type

Freshwater

Use

Fishing, Boats

View on Amazon: BODIOO 55 lb 30-Inch Transom Mount Trolling Motor Affiliate link

The BODIOO 55lb Trolling Motor offers 55 lbs of thrust with 8 speed settings for precise control. It features a 30-inch adjustable shaft and a lightweight 24 lb build. The 6-inch telescoping handle and LED battery indicator add practicality. This freshwater motor suits kayaks and small boats needing reliable, quiet propulsion for extended trips.

Pros

• 55 lbs of thrust for efficient navigation
• 8-speed control with 5 forward and 3 reverse
• 30-inch adjustable shaft for varied water depths
• Lightweight 24 lb design for easy handling
• Built-in LED battery indicator to monitor charge

Cons

• Freshwater only; not suitable for saltwater use
• Transom mount limits placement options on some kayaks
• 55 lbs thrust is lower than competitors on this list

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight motor for a kayak
• You fish in freshwater lakes or calm rivers
• You want an LED indicator to check battery levels

Skip if

• You plan to use the motor in saltwater
• You require more than 55 lbs of thrust
• You need a bow mount for better steering control

Verdict: BODIOO 55lb 8-Speed Trolling Motor is a solid choice for kayakers and small boat anglers who prioritize a lightweight build and clear battery monitoring in freshwater environments.

3 Best budget

PEXMOR 36lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Best for: small boats and kayaks needing light thrust

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

36 lb

Mount Type

Transom

Voltage

12V

Water Type

Saltwater

Use

Fishing, Boats

View on Amazon: PEXMOR 36lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor Affiliate link

The PEXMOR 36 lb trolling motor offers 8 speed settings with a 12V transom mount. It features an adjustable handle and depth control for precise positioning. The unit weighs 16 pounds and includes an LED battery indicator. This model suits small boats or kayaks needing reliable, quiet propulsion in saltwater conditions.

Pros

• 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse)
• Adjustable telescoping handle and depth knob
• LED battery indicator for capacity tracking
• Three-bladed propeller resists seaweed tangles
• Lightweight 16-pound design for easy mounting

Cons

• 36 lb thrust is lower than many competitors
• Transom mount only, no bow or foot pedal option
• Battery not included in the package

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight motor for a small boat
• You prefer manual handle control over remote operation
• You fish in saltwater and want a corrosion-resistant build

Skip if

• You require high thrust for heavy vessels
• You need a bow-mount installation
• You want a remote control or foot pedal

Verdict: PEXMOR 36 lb 8-Speed Trolling Motor fits anglers who prioritize portability and simple manual control for light-duty saltwater fishing.

4 Best premium

SEANESZTI 80 lb 12V Saltwater Trolling Motor

Best for: saltwater fishing on larger boats

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

80 lb

Control

Tiller

Voltage

12V

Water Type

Saltwater

Use

Fishing, Boats

View on Amazon: SEANESZTI 80 lb 12V Saltwater Trolling Motor Affiliate link

This SEANESZTI outboard motor delivers 80 lb of thrust with 12V power. It features 8 speed settings for precise control. The retractable handle adjusts from 7.48 to 11.22 inches. A digital display monitors battery levels in real time. You get 10 angle adjustments for depths over 0.7 meters. It suits saltwater fishing on inflatable boats or small craft.

Pros

• 80 lb thrust for strong traction
• 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse)
• Real-time battery monitoring display
• Retractable handle adjusts to 11.22 inches
• 10 levels of angle adjustment

Cons

• Heavier build limits portability
• Requires 12V battery connection
• Shaft length not specified for deep transoms

Good fit if

• You need high thrust for larger boats
• You fish in saltwater environments
• You want real-time battery monitoring

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight portable gear
• You only fish in shallow water
• You need a remote control option

Verdict: SEANESZTI 80lb 8-Speed Trolling Motor provides robust power for saltwater use. It fits anglers who prioritize thrust and battery visibility over compact storage.

5 Best 86 lb thrust

VEVOR 36-Inch 86 lb Transom Trolling Motor

Best for: Heavy boats and saltwater use

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

86 lbs

Shaft Length

36 in

Mount Type

Transom mount

Voltage

24V

Water Type

Freshwater, saltwater

View on Amazon: VEVOR 36-Inch 86 lb Transom Trolling Motor Affiliate link

This VEVOR unit delivers 86 lbs of thrust at 24V, the highest power in this group. It features a 36-inch shaft and 8 speed settings for precise control. The transom mount and adjustable handle suit various boats. It works in fresh and saltwater. You get strong pull for heavier loads or windy conditions.

Pros

• 86 lbs thrust provides superior power
• 24V system ensures efficient operation
• 36-inch shaft length fits deeper transoms
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy construction

Cons

• Heavier at 21.2 lbs than lighter competitors
• Requires two 12V batteries or one 24V unit
• Manual control lacks remote or GPS integration

Good fit if

• You need maximum thrust for larger boats
• You operate in saltwater environments
• You prefer a sturdy transom mount

Skip if

• You want a lightweight portable option
• You only have a single 12V battery
• You need remote steering control

Verdict: VEVOR 24V 86 lb Transom Trolling Motor offers the strongest pull in this list. It is the right pick for anglers who need serious power for larger vessels or rough water.

6 Also great

Spolehli 56lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor

Best for: Anglers needing 56 lb thrust

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

56 lb

Mount Type

Transom mount

Voltage

12V

Use

Fishing, Boats

Propulsion

Propeller Drive, Trolling Motor

View on Amazon: Spolehli 56lb Transom Mount Trolling Motor Affiliate link

The Spolehli 12V 56lb Trolling Motor offers 8 speed settings for precise control. It features a transom mount and a telescoping handle for adjustable reach. The nano composite shaft is corrosion-proof and lightweight. An LED display shows battery voltage, and a smart chip protects against overheating. This motor suits anglers needing reliable thrust for fishing boats or kayaks.

Pros

• 56 lb thrust provides steady power
• 8 speed settings allow fine adjustments
• Telescoping handle fits various heights
• LED display monitors battery voltage

Cons

• Transom mount limits kayak use
• Brushed motor may need more maintenance
• No remote control included

Good fit if

• You need 56 lb of thrust
• You prefer a telescoping handle
• You want a transom mount

Skip if

• You require a bow mount
• You need a remote control
• You want a brushless motor

Verdict: The Spolehli 12V 56lb 8-Speed Trolling Motor fits anglers who need a reliable transom-mounted motor with adjustable speed settings and a telescoping handle for comfortable operation.

7 Also great

Goplus 46 lb Transom Trolling Motor

Best for: Light trolling on calm waters

Speed Settings

8 Speed (what this guide is about)

Thrust

46 lb

Shaft Length

36 in

Mount Type

Transom

Control

Telescoping handle

Water Type

Freshwater and saltwater

View on Amazon: Goplus 46 lb Transom Trolling Motor Affiliate link

The Goplus 46 lb thrust trolling motor offers 8 speed settings with 5 forward and 3 reverse options. It features a telescoping handle for ergonomic control and a 36-inch shaft length. The transom mount design works in both fresh and saltwater. An LED battery indicator helps you monitor power levels. This unit is built with durable composite materials and includes a two-bladed propeller for quiet operation.

Pros

• 8 speed settings (5 forward, 3 reverse)
• Telescoping handle for ergonomic control
• Suitable for fresh and saltwater use
• LED battery indicator on the handle
• 36-inch shaft length for transom mounting

Cons

• 46 lb thrust is lower than many competitors
• Manual dial control only, no remote option
• Limited to 36-inch shaft length

Good fit if

• You need a motor for light to moderate trolling
• You prefer manual control via a telescoping handle
• You require a transom mount for a kayak or small boat

Skip if

• You need high thrust for heavy currents or large vessels
• You want wireless remote control operation
• You require a shaft length longer than 36 inches

Verdict: Goplus 46 Lbs 8 Speed Trolling Motor suits anglers who prioritize ergonomic manual control and quiet operation over raw power. It is a practical option for small craft in calm to moderate conditions.

Specifications side by side

How to choose your 8 speed trolling motor

1. Match thrust to your kayak

   Thrust ratings determine how much force the propeller generates. You should select 36 to 55 lb models for standard kayaks. The PEXMOR 36 lb unit fits small boats needing light propulsion. Heavier vessels or rough water require 80 or 86 lb options. The VEVOR 86 lb motor offers the strongest pull in this list. Always verify your kayak weight before buying to ensure adequate power.

2. Check shaft length fit

   Shaft length must match your transom height. A 36-inch shaft, like the one on the VEVOR and Goplus models, suits most kayaks. The BODIOO 55 lb unit features a 30-inch shaft for lower transoms. If the shaft is too short, the propeller may cavitate. If it is too long, drag increases. Measure your transom carefully. Ensure the propeller stays submerged without hitting the water surface during movement.

3. Select appropriate voltage

   Voltage affects runtime and power delivery. Most models here use 12V systems, including the BODIOO 68 lb and Spolehli 56 lb units. The VEVOR motor operates at 24V for higher performance. Higher voltage draws more current from your battery. You need a battery with sufficient amp-hour capacity. Check your existing battery specs. Ensure your power source matches the motor voltage to avoid damage or insufficient runtime during your trip.

4. Choose water type compatibility

   Saltwater corrodes motors quickly. You must pick a model rated for your environment. The PEXMOR 36 lb and SEANESZTI 80 lb units are designed for saltwater use. The BODIOO 68 lb and Goplus 46 lb models are for freshwater only. Using a freshwater motor in saltwater voids warranties and causes failure. Rinse any motor with fresh water after use. Inspect the propeller and housing for corrosion regularly to maintain performance.

5. Verify mount type

   All listed models use transom mounts. This requires a flat, vertical back surface on your kayak. Ensure your transom is reinforced to handle the motor weight and thrust. The BODIOO 68 lb and Spolehli 56 lb units fit standard transoms. Check for existing mounting holes or brackets. You may need to drill new holes. Secure the mount tightly to prevent vibration. A loose mount damages the kayak and reduces control during operation.

6. Consider weight and portability

   Heavier motors are more durable but harder to carry. The PEXMOR 36 lb unit weighs 16 pounds, making it easy to handle. The VEVOR 86 lb model weighs 21.2 pounds and measures 46.9 inches long. Heavier units offer more thrust but require more storage space. Consider how you transport your kayak. A lighter motor is better for frequent loading. A heavier motor provides stability in rough conditions. Balance weight against your power needs.

7. Review control handle design

   All models feature adjustable handles for manual control. You need a handle that allows comfortable steering while seated. The BODIOO 68 lb and SEANESZTI 80 lb units include adjustable handles. Check the handle length and grip style. Ensure it does not interfere with your seating position. The handle should allow precise speed and direction changes. Test the adjustment mechanism before purchase. A smooth adjustment ensures you can react quickly to changing water conditions.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best kayaks under 500
• best kayaks under 1000
• noeko 0 45 5 speed 8 inch alternatives
• oster oster classic series 8 speed blender alternatives