Lithium trolling motor batteries weigh far less than lead-acid, deliver steady power until they're nearly empty and can be discharged much deeper without harm. Here's how to set one up.
Match your motor's voltage
| Motor | One battery | Or batteries in series |
|---|---|---|
| 12V | 12V lithium | n/a |
| 24V | 24V lithium | 2 x 12V |
| 36V | 36V lithium | 3 x 12V |
A single 24V or 36V battery saves space and wiring. A series set of matched 12V batteries can be easier to fit and lift. Use identical batteries (same model, age and charge) in a series set; our Dakota sets bundle matched batteries.
Size the amp-hours
Run time depends on how hard you run the motor. Higher thrust settings, wind and current draw more. More amp-hours means more time on the water; compare the weight and size against your battery compartment.
Starting and house power
Dual-purpose batteries such as Dakota's DL+ can start an outboard and run electronics. Keep the trolling motor bank separate from the starting battery unless the maker's instructions say otherwise.
Charging
Use a lithium charger for the system voltage, or a multi-bank lithium charger with one bank per 12V battery for series sets. Onboard waterproof chargers are the most convenient on a boat.
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Will it fit the battery box?
Check the group size and dimensions against your battery box or tray. Dakota's DL+ 12V 60Ah is a Group 24 size (9.5 x 6.9 x 7.44 in.), and Ionic's 12V 100Ah is a Group 31 (13 x 6.75 x 9 in.). Because lithium is so much lighter, strap it down firmly so it can't shift in rough water.
Not sure which voltage, size or charger you need? Send us your motor's make, model and thrust, and how long you usually fish, and we'll suggest a battery and charger that fit your boat.
Example batteries and what the numbers mean
| Battery | Weight | Max continuous | Rated cycles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dakota Lithium DL+ 12V 60Ah | 16.5 lbs | 100A | Up to 5,000 to 80% capacity |
| Ionic 12V 100Ah (Bluetooth) | 24 lbs | 100A (350A 3-second peak) | 3,000-5,000 |
From Dakota Lithium and Ionic specifications on our listings.
The continuous rating must cover your motor's maximum draw. Energy (watt-hours) is the best way to compare run time: the Ionic 12V 100Ah stores 1,280Wh, and Dakota's DL+ 12V 60Ah stores 720Wh per battery.
Series sets for 24V and 36V motors
Our Dakota sets bundle matched batteries, such as three DL+ 12V 60Ah batteries for a 36V 60Ah bank. Before wiring a series set, we recommend charging each battery fully, then connect positive to negative between batteries and use the outer terminals for the motor. Keep the batteries together as a set for life: don't mix in a new battery later.
Charging on the water and at home
Use a LiFePO4 charger for the bank voltage. Dakota's 24V 20A portable charger, for example, charges a 24V 50Ah bank in under 2.5 hours, according to Dakota. Lead-acid chargers can over- or under-charge a LiFePO4 battery and may void its warranty. In cold weather, check the battery's low-temperature charge protection: the Ionic 12V 100Ah, for example, has charge protection below 24°F.
Winter storage
Follow the maker's storage advice. Most recommend storing lithium partly charged and disconnected, in a place that stays within the battery's storage temperature range.
Related guides
- The complete lithium conversion guide: steps, make-by-make notes, costs and install videos.
- Fitment Guide: every battery we sell by make, model and year.
- Charger guide
- Powersports batteries
Need a hand? Use the Fitment Guide to see every battery we sell for your cart, or send us your cart's make, model, year and serial number and we'll confirm the right battery before you order.
Trolling motor battery videos
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