Recommendations for a trolling motor battery

[ziggy6]

Well I went out and purchased a trolling motor ( Minn Kota) and now I need to pick up a 12v battery.  Not sure if purchasing an Optima is worth the money or are other batteries that are cheaper just as good? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[ziggy6]

Sorry, after looking I realize my post ( trolling battery)  should have gone on the fishing discussion forum...must be all this time I'm spending in my home that is making me crazy..

[Canuckbass]

Hi @ziggy6
I'm pretty experienced with trolling motors and setups, hopefully I can help you out.
Bow mount or transom mount?
Size of boat and lbs thrust Minn Kota is?

Optima batteries are nice but for value nothing wrong with cheaper battery if maintained well. A lot of the lead batteries come from same factory, just different stickers depending who retailer is.

[ziggy6]

I purchased a 45 lb thrust ...transom mounted Minnkota  ...  I appreciate any and all advice. I'm not against spending the extra for an Optima if it was worth it but as you indicated their might be others that are compatible or better for less ( or that's my hope)  Thanks for the time and advice...Ziggy

[Canuckbass]

If you're leaving battery in boat all the time I'd go with the larger group 27 size battery. Regular lead batteries that I'd use hard at least four days a week I'd get 6 to 7 years out of before needing changed. Having a good onboard charging works great too, just plug in overnight.

For a 45lb motor, nothing wrong with a regular sized acid battery, keep the maintenance up and make sure it doesn't go dry and you'll get many years out of it. If leaving outside in winter, make sure it's fully charged before storing.

[Maxco]

I purchased a Kirkland battery from Costco several years ago. It is still going strong. It was among the cheapest around at any store and I've had no complaints.
As others said just make sure you maintain them properly and you will get many years service out of it.