24 Volt vs 36 Volt Trolling Motor

Choosing the right trolling motor is crucial for any angler or boater looking to enhance their experience on the water. When it comes to electric propulsion, two of the most popular options are the 24-volt and 36-volt trolling motors. Each offers distinct advantages depending on the size of your boat, the conditions you typically encounter, and your power needs. Whether you’re a casual fisherman or a seasoned pro, understanding the key differences between these two motor systems can help you make an informed decision that best suits your boating style. In this guide, we will break down the key differences between 24-volt and 36-volt trolling motors, exploring their power, efficiency, cost, and performance to help you choose the best motor for your needs.

Overview of 24 Volt Trolling Motors

What is a 24 Volt Trolling Motor?

A 24-volt trolling motor is a type of electric motor designed to provide steady propulsion for small to medium-sized boats. It operates using two 12-volt deep cycle batteries connected in series, giving it the necessary 24 volts of power to run. These motors are typically used by recreational boaters, particularly those who engage in fishing or leisurely cruising. They are an excellent option for boats that do not require extreme power but still need reliable and consistent thrust for maneuvering in a variety of water conditions.

Power and Performance

A 24-volt trolling motor is ideal for smaller to medium-sized boats, usually weighing between 16 and 24 feet. These motors offer a balance of power and efficiency, providing enough thrust to propel a boat without the added weight and complexity of higher voltage motors. While they do not generate as much thrust as a 36-volt motor, they can still handle moderate currents, winds, and waves with ease, making them perfect for more relaxed boating experiences.

The typical thrust output for a 24-volt trolling motor is between 55 and 80 pounds, though this can vary depending on the specific model and the manufacturer. This level of power is often enough for most users, especially if they don’t need to deal with heavy winds or fast-moving currents. For anglers, this provides the power needed for slow trolling, while still offering the efficiency required for longer trips without exhausting the battery too quickly.

Advantages of 24 Volt Motors

• Lighter and More Compact: Compared to 36-volt motors, 24-volt trolling motors are generally lighter and more compact. This can be a significant benefit for boaters who are looking to reduce the weight they need to carry and want a motor that is easier to install and remove.
• Lower Cost: 24-volt motors tend to be more affordable than their 36-volt counterparts. Not only is the motor itself usually less expensive, but the cost of the two 12-volt batteries required for operation is generally lower than purchasing three 12-volt batteries for a 36-volt system.
• Simpler Setup: Since you only need two 12-volt batteries for a 24-volt system, the setup is usually simpler. This makes 24-volt trolling motors easier to maintain, and the wiring is generally less complex compared to a 36-volt motor system.
• Energy Efficiency for Smaller Boats: For boats that don’t require extreme thrust, a 24-volt motor can be an efficient choice, offering good battery life while reducing unnecessary energy consumption. The motor runs at a lower current draw, which helps preserve battery life during longer outings.

Ideal Use Cases for 24 Volt Motors

A 24-volt trolling motor is best suited for boaters who use their boats for recreational fishing, cruising, or leisurely outings. These motors are effective for boats that weigh up to 24 feet, such as bass boats, pontoon boats, and small to medium-sized fishing boats. For anglers who fish in calmer, more controlled waters, a 24-volt trolling motor offers plenty of power to navigate, troll, or anchor the boat without draining the batteries too quickly.

If you primarily fish in lakes, reservoirs, or calm rivers, and you don’t need high speeds or excessive thrust to cut through heavy currents or winds, a 24-volt motor could be the perfect fit. It’s also a good option if you’re looking for a trolling motor for occasional use rather than full-time or commercial boating.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One of the key benefits of a 24-volt trolling motor is its relatively good battery life, which can range from 6 to 10 hours, depending on the thrust setting and conditions. Lower thrust levels will naturally extend battery life, allowing for longer periods of use on a single charge. However, because it uses fewer batteries than a 36-volt motor, it may not offer the same extended run time in extreme conditions or for larger, heavier boats.

Despite using just two 12-volt batteries, a 24-volt trolling motor is still quite efficient. For anglers who primarily fish in areas where the motor won’t be running at full thrust constantly, the motor’s efficiency allows it to provide sufficient power while conserving energy, ensuring a longer outing.

Overview of 36 Volt Trolling Motors

What is a 36 Volt Trolling Motor?

A 36-volt trolling motor is a powerful electric motor designed for larger boats and more demanding conditions. It operates using three 12-volt deep cycle batteries connected in series to provide 36 volts of power. This higher voltage system delivers significantly more thrust and efficiency compared to a 24-volt motor, making it an ideal choice for boaters who require heavy-duty performance in challenging environments. Typically, 36-volt trolling motors are used by professional anglers, those with larger boats, or anyone who frequently navigates in rougher waters.

Power and Performance

The most significant advantage of a 36-volt trolling motor is its increased power output. With a typical thrust range from 80 to 112 pounds, a 36-volt motor offers significantly more propulsion than a 24-volt system. This level of thrust is especially useful for larger boats or situations where extra power is needed to cut through heavy winds, strong currents, or rough waters. For anglers who fish in coastal waters, large lakes, or fast-moving rivers, the power of a 36-volt motor ensures they can maintain control and move efficiently even in challenging conditions.

In addition to offering more thrust, a 36-volt trolling motor is generally more responsive and capable of maintaining higher speeds over longer distances. This makes it an excellent choice for boaters who need to cover larger areas or require sustained high performance for extended periods.

Advantages of 36 Volt Motors

• More Power and Thrust: The most significant benefit of a 36-volt trolling motor is its power. Larger boats, especially those over 24 feet, require the additional thrust to navigate efficiently, and the 36-volt motor provides that in spades. Whether you’re trolling at higher speeds, dealing with strong currents, or using the motor for propelling a heavy load, the extra thrust allows for superior performance.
• Longer Battery Life: Due to the increased voltage, 36-volt motors are generally more energy-efficient than 24-volt motors. While they draw more power, they do so in a manner that allows them to maintain their thrust without draining the batteries as quickly. For boaters who spend extended hours on the water, this can be a critical advantage, as it ensures a longer duration of operation before needing a recharge.
• Higher Speed and Efficiency: With more volts at their disposal, 36-volt motors can deliver higher speeds while maintaining a lower amperage draw compared to 24-volt motors. This means that, despite using more power, the motor is often more efficient at maintaining its output, which helps preserve battery life and extend the motor’s usability.
• Better Performance in Challenging Conditions: The higher voltage allows the motor to push through stronger winds and currents, making it perfect for use in environments where a 24-volt motor might struggle. For instance, coastal fishing in tidal areas or fast-moving rivers demands consistent and reliable performance, which is exactly what a 36-volt trolling motor offers.

Ideal Use Cases for 36 Volt Motors

A 36-volt trolling motor is best suited for larger boats, typically 20 feet or more, including offshore fishing boats, large pontoons, and deep-vee hull boats. These motors excel in applications where high-speed, long-range, and power are critical factors. If you’re an angler who frequently fishes in rough waters or over large areas, or if your boat is heavily loaded with gear, a 36-volt trolling motor is a reliable solution to ensure your boat operates efficiently and consistently.

Additionally, professional and tournament anglers who spend long hours on the water will benefit from the superior battery life and power output of a 36-volt motor. These motors can handle demanding tasks such as long-distance trolling, rapid maneuvering, and covering large expanses of water without the need for frequent recharging.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One of the most notable advantages of a 36-volt trolling motor is its superior battery efficiency. With three 12-volt batteries, the motor can draw power more evenly, which reduces the risk of running out of juice during extended outings. On average, a 36-volt trolling motor can run for 8 to 12 hours, depending on the speed setting, the conditions, and the size of the boat.

Although the system uses more batteries and requires more upfront investment, the long-lasting efficiency makes it a good value over time. The key advantage here is that, because of the motor’s increased power and reduced amperage draw, users can spend more time on the water before having to recharge their batteries.

Ideal Conditions for 36 Volt Motors

36-volt motors are best used in conditions where power, durability, and endurance are required. If you regularly fish in heavy currents, windy conditions, or turbulent waters, a 36-volt motor is the ideal choice. Additionally, these motors are well-suited for long-range trips, especially in saltwater environments where a higher voltage ensures better resistance to corrosion and the ability to handle the demands of the ocean.

For those who operate larger boats that often carry extra gear, passengers, or equipment, the additional thrust and power offered by a 36-volt trolling motor make it a crucial component of the boat’s overall performance. It can provide the stability and control necessary for fishing, leisure cruising, or even commercial applications.

Key Differences Between 24 Volt and 36 Volt Trolling Motors

Power and Thrust Comparison

The most noticeable difference between a 24-volt and a 36-volt trolling motor is the power and thrust each system provides. A 24-volt trolling motor typically delivers between 55 and 80 pounds of thrust, which is sufficient for smaller to medium-sized boats and calmer waters. This level of thrust is ideal for leisurely fishing trips, casual cruising, and light trolling. However, when the conditions become more challenging—such as strong winds or swift currents—a 24-volt motor may struggle to provide adequate power, especially on larger boats.

In contrast, a 36-volt trolling motor offers significantly more power, with thrust typically ranging from 80 to 112 pounds. This extra power is essential for larger boats, heavier loads, and rougher conditions. If you plan on navigating through large bodies of water with strong currents or waves, or if you need to maneuver a heavy boat or gear, the higher thrust from a 36-volt motor ensures you can maintain control and speed. For professional anglers or those engaged in high-performance boating, the 36-volt system is a must-have for demanding conditions.

Battery Requirements and Cost

Another critical difference between 24-volt and 36-volt motors is the number of batteries required for operation. A 24-volt trolling motor uses two 12-volt deep cycle batteries, connected in series, to provide the necessary power. Since fewer batteries are required, the initial setup is typically less expensive than a 36-volt system.

A 36-volt trolling motor, however, requires three 12-volt batteries connected in series. This means the upfront cost of purchasing the motor and the batteries will be higher. Additionally, the cost of replacing batteries for a 36-volt system is typically more expensive, as you will need to replace three batteries instead of just two. While the 36-volt system offers better performance, the additional batteries and associated costs can be a significant factor for those on a budget.

Efficiency and Battery Life

Battery efficiency is an area where 36-volt trolling motors shine. Despite using three batteries, these motors are generally more energy-efficient than their 24-volt counterparts. A 36-volt system can maintain higher thrust levels without drawing as much current from the batteries as a 24-volt motor would in similar conditions. This means that while both motors may have similar battery life when used at low speeds or on calm waters, the 36-volt motor excels in maintaining its performance over extended periods, especially when used at higher speeds or in rougher waters.

On average, a 36-volt trolling motor provides a longer runtime per charge compared to a 24-volt motor, even under heavy load. This is due to the greater efficiency of the motor’s design, which allows it to operate for longer durations without depleting the battery reserves as quickly. For boaters who require long hours on the water without worrying about battery depletion, a 36-volt motor is the clear winner in terms of efficiency.

Weight and Space Considerations

The weight and space requirements of the trolling motor system are also key differences to consider. A 24-volt trolling motor, with its two 12-volt batteries, is generally lighter and more compact than a 36-volt motor. This makes the 24-volt system a better choice for smaller boats or for users who want to minimize the weight and complexity of their setup. It also means that the motor and batteries can be easily stored and transported, which can be a crucial factor for boaters with limited storage space.

On the other hand, a 36-volt trolling motor requires three 12-volt batteries, making the entire system heavier and bulkier. This increased weight and space requirement may be a consideration for those with limited storage capacity on their boats. However, larger boats, which are typically the ones using 36-volt motors, usually have enough room to accommodate the additional weight and space requirements.

Speed and Control

In terms of speed, the 36-volt trolling motor generally provides higher top speeds than a 24-volt motor. This is particularly noticeable when navigating through rougher waters or when additional thrust is required to maintain consistent speed. While a 24-volt motor is perfectly sufficient for casual trolling or cruising at lower speeds, a 36-volt motor excels in providing more power when speed is crucial, such as in situations that require quick maneuvers or covering large distances.

Additionally, a 36-volt motor offers more precise control over speed and thrust, which is essential for anglers who require specific speeds for trolling. The extra power allows for smoother and more responsive adjustments to the motor’s speed settings, giving boaters greater control over their boat’s movements.

Price Comparison: Initial Cost and Maintenance

Price is often one of the most significant factors when deciding between a 24-volt and 36-volt trolling motor. As mentioned earlier, the initial cost of a 36-volt motor is higher due to the need for three 12-volt batteries and the motor’s advanced features. Additionally, because a 36-volt system requires more batteries, the cost of replacing those batteries can add up over time. Battery maintenance and replacement costs for a 36-volt motor will generally be higher than for a 24-volt motor.

While the 36-volt motor offers superior performance, the price difference can be a dealbreaker for some boaters, especially those with smaller boats who do not require the added power. For boaters on a budget, a 24-volt system may be a more cost-effective solution, offering good value without the need for the high upfront investment associated with a 36-volt motor.

Which Motor is Right for You?

The choice between a 24-volt and a 36-volt trolling motor ultimately depends on your specific boating needs. If you have a smaller boat, fish in calm waters, and primarily engage in leisurely boating or fishing, a 24-volt trolling motor will likely meet your needs and offer an efficient, cost-effective solution. On the other hand, if you operate a larger boat, fish in rougher conditions, or require more power for extended use, a 36-volt trolling motor will provide the necessary thrust, efficiency, and battery life to keep you moving for longer periods.

For those who prioritize performance and need the extra power for larger boats or demanding conditions, a 36-volt trolling motor is the better choice. However, for those who want a lighter, more affordable option that still delivers dependable power for typical recreational use, a 24-volt system may be the ideal fit.

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