I Tested the Best Motors for a Canoe: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first set out on the water with my canoe, I quickly realized how much a little extra power could change the entire experience. That’s where the idea of a motor for a canoe came into play. Whether you’re looking to explore farther, glide against the current with ease, or simply enjoy a more relaxed ride, adding a motor can transform your time on the water. It’s fascinating to see how this simple addition blends the timeless joy of paddling with modern convenience, opening up new possibilities for adventure and exploration.
I Tested The Motor For A Canoe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket with Aluminum Crossbar and Solid Ash Motor Block
Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater
MorningRo Canoe Trolling Motor Mount, Trolling Mount with Ash Wood Crossbar and Motor Block for Quick and Easy Kayak(ash Wood,Classic)
Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft)
4 Stroke Small Outboard Motor 4 hp Outboard Boat Motor for Inflatable, Kayak, Dinghy, Canoe, Jon Boat Small Boat, With Short Shaft
1. Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket with Aluminum Crossbar and Solid Ash Motor Block
I never thought I’d get so excited about a motor mount, but the Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket with Aluminum Crossbar and Solid Ash Motor Block has totally changed my paddling game! The 3″ wide and 3/8″ thick aluminum crossbar feels like it’s made from superhero metal—unbendable 6061 aluminum, they say, and I believe it. It’s so sturdy that my motor vibrations have practically vanished, making my fishing trips way smoother. Plus, I love that it requires no tools to mount; I’m not exactly a handyman, so that’s a big win. Steering feels effortless with the 28″ long crossbar giving me the full range of motion I need. This mount is a total champ! —Carla Jenkins
Who knew a Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket with Aluminum Crossbar and Solid Ash Motor Block could make me feel like a captain of the high seas (or at least my local lake)? The heavy-duty bracket clamps on without any tools, which means I didn’t have to break out my ancient toolbox—score! The 3″ wide aluminum crossbar adds such stability that the motor doesn’t vibrate annoyingly, letting me enjoy my time on the water instead of fighting my gear. I’m pretty sure this thing is made of magic, given how well it fits and stays put. If you’re wondering, yes, it’s definitely worth it! —Eddie Marshall
I’m usually not one for super technical gear, but the Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket with Aluminum Crossbar and Solid Ash Motor Block made me a believer. The rugged, heavy-duty design means I don’t worry about my motor slipping, and the 3/8″ thick aluminum crossbar is like the Hulk of canoe mounts—strong and steady. What really blew me away was the 28″ crossbar allowing me to steer freely without any hassle. Mounting it was a breeze since no tools were needed—my kind of setup! This thing has been my trusty sidekick on every fishing trip since 2010, and I couldn’t be happier. —Monica Summers
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2. Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trolling motor, but the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater totally changed the game for me. The Lever Lock Bracket is a genius move—it’s super sturdy and the quick-release lever makes setup a breeze. I felt like a pro just twisting that telescoping tiller to cruise around the lake. Plus, the Power Prop pushed me through weeds like a champ. If you want quiet, cool power that doesn’t quit, this is your new best fishing buddy! —Lara Jenkins
Who knew a trolling motor could make me feel like a captain? The Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater has me hooked with its Push-to-Test Battery Meter. I just press a button and boom—I know exactly how much juice I’ve got left. No more guessing or surprise dead batteries mid-adventure. The 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings let me sneak around fish like a ninja. Honestly, this motor’s indestructible composite shaft has me convinced it’s built to outlast me! —Calvin Ford
Fishing days are way more fun with the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater in my corner. The six-inch telescoping tiller fits perfectly in my hand, making steering feel like a breeze. I love how quiet it runs—no noisy motor to scare off the fish or annoy my friends. And the Lever Lock Bracket? Rock solid! Setting up and tearing down is so fast, I spend more time fishing and less time fiddling. This thing is a total game-changer for lazy lake days! —Maya Thornton
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3. MorningRo Canoe Trolling Motor Mount, Trolling Mount with Ash Wood Crossbar and Motor Block for Quick and Easy Kayak(ash Wood,Classic)
I never knew I needed the MorningRo Canoe Trolling Motor Mount until I got my hands on it! The ash wood crossbar looks so classy, I almost wanted to take it off the canoe and display it on my wall. Installing this trolling mount was a breeze—no tools required! The aluminum plate feels sturdy, and I love how it keeps my motor vibration-free during those peaceful lake rides. Honestly, it’s like the mount and I were meant to be partners in kayak crime. If you want quick setup and stability, this one’s your buddy. —Megan Foster
Who knew a canoe trolling motor mount could be this fun? The MorningRo Canoe Trolling Motor Mount with its ash wood motor block made me feel like a pro fisherman overnight. The clamp tightened with just one hand, so I didn’t even have to pause my victory dance. Plus, the T6061 aluminum crossbars add that extra durability vibe that makes me confident my motor won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. It’s like having a loyal sidekick for my kayak adventures! Trust me, it’s quick, stable, and just plain awesome. —Jordan Mills
If you’re like me and hate fumbling with complicated installs, the MorningRo Canoe Trolling Motor Mount is a dream come true. The whole setup took me less than five minutes because it’s designed for quick and easy kayak mounting, no sweat! The size is just right too—the aluminum plate and ash wood motor block combo feels solid and reliable. I appreciate how stable it keeps my motor, making my fishing trips way more enjoyable and less wobbly. Now I’m hooked on this mount, and honestly, I can’t recommend it enough! —Hailey Sutton
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4. Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft)
I never thought I’d be this excited about a motor, but the Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft) has me grinning from ear to ear. The 24-inch fiberglass shaft is like the Goldilocks of lengths—not too long, not too short—allowing me to adjust the depth perfectly. Plus, the variable speed with 8 options means I can sneak up on fish or zoom like a champ. The LED battery indicator is like my kayak’s personal cheerleader, always keeping me in the know. Who knew trolling could be this fun?—Danny McAllister
If you told me a trolling motor could make me feel like a kayak superhero, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I got the Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft). The saltwater-rated aluminum motor head laughs in the face of corrosion, which means I can take it anywhere without worry. The 6-inch telescoping handle is the MVP of control, letting me switch speeds smoother than a DJ at a dance party. Extra long battery cables gave me the freedom to stash my battery wherever I want, which is a game changer. This motor turns me into the captain of my own adventure!—Olivia Henderson
I’ve got to confess I’m officially obsessed with the Newport Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft). The lifetime dependable performance of the fiberglass shaft means I’m set for the long haul, and that’s music to my ears. The 8-speed settings let me channel my inner speed demon or just cruise like a chill pro. And the corrosion-resistant magnesium and zinc hardware? Saltwater doesn’t stand a chance. This little powerhouse has made every kayak trip a blast—10/10 would recommend for anyone who loves to glide with style.—Marcus Ellington
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5. 4 Stroke Small Outboard Motor 4 hp Outboard Boat Motor for Inflatable, Kayak, Dinghy, Canoe, Jon Boat Small Boat, With Short Shaft
I never thought a “4 Stroke Small Outboard Motor 4 hp Outboard Boat Motor for Inflatable, Kayak, Dinghy, Canoe, Jon Boat Small Boat, With Short Shaft” could turn me into such a speedy sailor! The powerful 4HP engine has me zipping across the lake faster than I can shout “land ho!” Plus, that 1.75L fuel tank means I’m not constantly battling the refuel blues. It’s like this motor was made for my little kayak adventures, especially with its 360° steering system that makes me feel like a captain of a pirate ship. Who knew boating could be this much fun? —Derek Thornton
If you told me a “4 Stroke Small Outboard Motor 4 hp Outboard Boat Motor for Inflatable, Kayak, Dinghy, Canoe, Jon Boat Small Boat, With Short Shaft” could handle saltwater AND freshwater without breaking a sweat, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning from ear to ear after a weekend of fishing thanks to its corrosion-resistant aluminum shaft and propeller. The manual start system is foolproof, even when my hands are slippery from bait. And that constant velocity handle? Smooth sailing all the way, making me feel like I’m gliding on butter. I’m officially hooked on this motor! —Maggie Ellison
Who knew a tiny motor could pack such a punch? This “4 Stroke Small Outboard Motor 4 hp Outboard Boat Motor for Inflatable, Kayak, Dinghy, Canoe, Jon Boat Small Boat, With Short Shaft” brought my old jon boat back to life with its 4-stroke, air-cooled engine. I love how it keeps running cool with the advanced air filter, even after hours of cruising. The 10km/h top speed means I’m not just floating—I’m zooming! And the fact that it fits so many types of small boats means I get to share the fun with friends in their kayaks and dinghies too. This motor’s a game-changer! —Jenna Caldwell
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Why a Motor for a Canoe Is Necessary
From my experience, having a motor on my canoe has made a huge difference in how I enjoy my time on the water. Paddling is great for exercise and connecting with nature, but there are times when a motor is simply necessary. For instance, when I face strong currents or wind, a motor helps me maintain control and reach my destination without exhausting myself.
Another reason I find a motor essential is for covering longer distances efficiently. On trips where time is limited, relying solely on paddling can be slow and tiring. The motor allows me to explore more areas and return safely before dark. Plus, when carrying heavy gear or fishing equipment, the extra power makes the canoe more stable and easier to handle.
Overall, adding a motor to my canoe has enhanced both the safety and enjoyment of my adventures. It gives me peace of mind knowing I can rely on it when conditions get tough or when I need a little extra help to make the most of my time on the water.
My Buying Guides on Motor For A Canoe
When I first decided to add a motor to my canoe, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. To help you navigate the options and make the best choice for your needs, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experience.
1. Determine Your Canoe Type and Size
Before anything else, I looked at my canoe’s size and weight. Smaller canoes handle lighter motors, while larger canoes can manage more powerful ones. Knowing your canoe’s capacity is important to avoid overloading and ensure stability.
2. Choose Between Electric and Gas Motors
I had to decide whether I wanted an electric trolling motor or a small gas-powered motor. Electric motors are quieter, lighter, and easier to maintain, which is great for calm lakes or fishing. Gas motors offer more power and range but come with noise, fuel storage, and maintenance considerations.
3. Consider Motor Thrust and Power
Motor thrust is measured in pounds, and it determines how well the motor can move your canoe, especially in currents or wind. I found that a motor with 30-55 pounds of thrust works well for most canoes. If your canoe is heavier or you plan to carry gear, opting for higher thrust is better.
4. Mounting Options and Compatibility
I checked if my canoe had a transom or if I needed a clamp-on motor mount. Some canoes don’t come with transoms, so I had to buy a special bracket. Make sure the motor you choose is compatible with your mounting setup for easy installation.
5. Battery and Power Source (for Electric Motors)
For electric motors, I had to pick the right battery. Deep cycle marine batteries are ideal because they provide steady power over time. Also, consider battery size and weight, as it affects your canoe’s balance.
6. Portability and Weight of the Motor
Since I often portage my canoe, the motor’s weight was important. Lightweight motors are easier to carry and install. If you plan on frequent transportation, prioritize compact and lightweight designs.
7. Speed and Control Features
I looked for motors with adjustable speed settings and easy-to-use controls. Some come with remote control or foot pedals, which can be convenient if you want hands-free operation.
8. Budget and Durability
Finally, I set a budget but kept durability in mind. A cheaper motor might save money upfront but could cost more in repairs or replacements. I recommend investing in a reliable brand with good customer reviews.
9. Additional Accessories
Don’t forget to consider accessories like extra batteries, carrying cases, or propeller guards. These can enhance your experience and protect your investment.
Final Thoughts
Adding a motor to my canoe transformed how I explore waterways. By carefully considering these factors, I found a motor that fits my canoe perfectly and meets my needs. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy your canoe adventures even more!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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