What Size Trolling Motor For 24-Foot Pontoon Boat

What Size Trolling Motor For 24-Foot Pontoon Boat?

Owning a 24-foot pontoon boat comes with many responsibilities.

One of these responsibilities is maintenance, which must be completed on a regular basis.

If you maintain your pontoon boat properly, it will provide you with many years of service.

One of the biggest expenses you will eventually face is the trolling motor. Replacing the trolling motor is not as simple as one might believe. With so many brands available, you may struggle to make a final selection.

This guide will help you find the right size trolling motor for your 24-foot pontoon boat.

What Size Trolling Motor For 24′ Pontoon Boat?

As mentioned above, there are many trolling motor models on the market. With that said, all trolling motors are not created equal. Each model has features that make it unique.

If you ask the experts, they will recommend replacing with a 24-volt trolling motor. However, to get the most power, you will need to invest in a 24-volt trolling motor with a thrust of at least 80.

With these motors, the thrust level can go up as high as 101, but a 24’ pontoon boat should not require that type of intensity.

How Much Thrust Will You Need?

A 24′ pontoon is a large versatile boat that can reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The speed capability of a pontoon depends on the size of the load and engine.

A 24-volt trolling motor with a thrust of at least 80 will maximize your pontoon’s speed capabilities. If you want to achieve higher speeds, you will need to invest in a 24-volt or 36-volt trolling motor with a thrust of 101. With that said, this high level of thrust is not necessary for a 24-foot pontoon boat.

Another factor that will determine the trolling speed is where the trolling motor is mounted. Trolling motors are mounted on bow, engine or transom. Each type of mount has both advantages and disadvantages. Most anglers agree that the bow mount trolling motor is the best option because it does not alter the way the boat handles.

It is also important to consider the length of the shaft. Since the pontoon boat has a high deck, the shaft must be longer than what would normally be utilized on other types of boats. It is recommended to choose a trolling motor with a shaft length of 60 inches.

But Which Specific Trolling Motor Is Best?

It’s difficult to recommenced the absolute best trolling motor for your 24-foot pontoon boat as I haven’t tried all of them. However if I had to recommend you a specific trolling motor. I’d recommend the MotorGuide Xi5 Wireless Trolling Motor. You can purchase this from Amazon by clicking here.

What About the Batteries and Charging?

Besides buying a trolling motor, you’ll also need a good battery. And, you need to make sure that the battery perfectly suits the motor.

I have an guide in which I review the best trolling motor batteries. I’d suggest you give it a read for the best battery recommendations. You can find the guide by clicking here.

There are several key factors to consider when trying to buy a battery for this purpose.

The battery life is definitely the most important. You do not want to end up stranded out on the water. Therefore, you should get the longest battery life you can find.

You’ll also want to choose a battery that minimizes the vibration. Finally, make sure that the battery is spill-proof. After all, you never know when it is going to tip over.

Recommended Battery: VMAX MR127

Now, you’ll need to find out how to charge the battery.

After a day of boating, there is a good chance that the battery is going to be drained. With this in mind, you’ll need a charger.

Some of the latest battery chargers will actually connect to solar panels. This is a good setup for someone who wishes to save money in the long run. Just remember that solar panels may not be effective in all areas. You may also be able to use a battery tender. This is a good idea when the battery has not completely died.

Otherwise, you’ll need a stronger battery charger. Most of these chargers are going to be pulled into an electric outlet. Then, they’ll need to be connected to the battery. After that, the battery will charge in a short period of time.

Trolling Motor Buyers Guide

There are numerous things to take into account when trying to purchase a trolling motor. If you ignore one or more of these factors, there is a good chance that you’re going to make the wrong choice. In return, you’re going to regret it. Below, you’ll learn about some of the most important factors to consider.

Performance – First and foremost, you should consider the performance of the motor. Does it work reliably? Does it have enough power to get the job done correctly? A good trolling motor should not compromise in terms of performance.

Handling – You’ll also want to consider the handling or steering of the motor. Since you’re going with a trolling motor, it will be slightly more sensitive to even the smallest changes. Therefore, you may have to get used to handling a pontoon that has a trolling motor.

Thrust – This is really the most important factor of all. Some motors will have the very same thrust. Therefore, you need to figure out exactly what is needed to drive the boat. Be sure to make this decision first, because it is going to help determine what range you’ll end up buying in the end.

Voltage – Trolling motors are available with various volts. They range from 12 to 36. So, which one is best? Well, going with a 24 or 36-volt system will ensure that you’re able to remain out on the water longer. However, you can connect 36-volt batteries to a 12-volt system and you’ll probably get more impressive thrusts. Therefore, you have to consider what you want and go from there.

Durability – Finally, you cannot ignore the durability of the motor. Is it going to last? If not, you should buy a different one. Getting a good warranty can be very helpful too.

Summary

Buying a trolling motor for a 24-pontoon boat can be very difficult. What size motor for 24-foot pontoon boat? This is just one question that needs to be asked. It is also pertinent to think about your budget and other preferences.

Above, you have been provided with tips for ensuring you get the best motor for your boat. It is recommended that you ingest this information and use it to your advantage. Doing so will pay off dividends in the future.

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