Minn Kota’s bow-mount trolling motors are engineered to deliver ultimate control, precision, and durability for every angler. Whether you choose electric-steer for advanced automation, cable-steer for rugged responsiveness, or Riptide models built for saltwater toughness, each option is packed with cutting-edge technology like Digital Maximizer for extended battery life and corrosion-resistant construction for long-lasting performance. With seamless integration to Humminbird® units and a range of models to fit your fishing style, these motors set the standard for reliability and innovation on the water.
Jump to:
- Bow-Mount vs. Transom-Mount
- Brushed vs. Brushless (QUEST) Motors
- Freshwater vs. Saltwater Trolling Motors
- Bow-Mount Trolling Motors
Bow-Mount vs. Transom-Mount
| Advantages | |
| Bow-Mount | Transom-Mount |
| Superior maneuverability and precise control. | Affordable and budget-friendly. |
| Pulls the boat for smoother navigation. | Quick, simple installation. |
| Advanced features like foot pedal, GPS, and autopilot. | Compact design—ideal for small boats. |
| Hands-free operation for active anglers. | Easy hand-tiller control for relaxed fishing. |
| Limitations | |
| Bow-Mount | Transom-Mount |
| Higher cost than transom mounts. | Less precise control in wind. |
| Requires significant deck space. | Limited advanced features (no GPS or foot pedal). |
| Bulkier and heavier—harder to transport. | Pushes the boat, reducing maneuverability. |
| Complex wiring and setup. | |
| Installation | |
| Bow-Mount | Transom-Mount |
| Needs a flat, sturdy deck area. | Clamp-on design for fast setup. |
| Often requires drilling and mounting hardware. | Best for boats with accessible transom. |
| Electrical wiring through deck; plan battery placement. | Minimal wiring—connects directly to battery. |
Freshwater vs. Saltwater Trolling Motors
Freshwater Motors
Designed for all kinds of freshwater boats, our motors offer the most intuitive controls, advanced technologies and unparalleled durability in fishing. Using any of our freshwater Minn Kota motors in saltwater may dramatically reduce the life of the motor and voids the manufacturer's warranty.
Saltwater Motors
We designed a special line of motors for use in salt or brackish water. The Minn Kota Riptide trolling motors have a number of "saltwater-engineered" enhancements, including stainless steel hardware, sealed electrical connections and an advanced painting process for improved corrosion protection. To extend the life of your Minn Kota Riptide saltwater trolling motor, thoroughly rinse the motor with freshwater after every use in saltwater and store indoors. Never leave the motor submerged in saltwater when the boat is moored.
Brushed vs. Brushless (QUEST) Motors
Advantages of Brushed Motors
- Proven, reliable technology with decades of trusted performance
- Lower upfront cost compared to brushless alternatives
- Simple design for easy maintenance and repair
- Ideal for anglers who prefer traditional setups
- Durable construction for consistent operation in standard conditions
Advantages of Brushless (QUEST) Motors
- Higher efficiency for longer run times and extended battery life
- Quieter operation for a more enjoyable fishing experience
- Reduced wear and tear thanks to frictionless design, increasing motor lifespan
- Greater power and precision for demanding conditions and advanced features
- Cutting-edge technology with smart systems for optimized performance
Bow-Mount Trolling Motors
Freshwater Cable-Steer Motors
Rugged and responsive, these motors use a direct cable connection between the foot pedal and motor for instant steering response. Popular with bass anglers, they excel in shallow water by navigating around weeds, stumps, and other obstacles.
- Performance: Battery-extending Digital Maximizer™ technology (Ultrex, Fortrex, and select Maxxum models)
- Integration: Compatible with Humminbird® units for built-in sonar, networking, and motor operation (Ultrex only)
- Durability: Unmatched corrosion protection
- Available Models: Ultrex, Fortrex, Maxxum, and Edge
- Benefits: Precise, responsive steering and rugged reliability for demanding conditions
Key Advantages
- Instant Response Steering: Direct cable connection between foot pedal and motor provides immediate, precise control.
- Rugged Reliability: Built tough for demanding conditions, ideal for navigating weeds, stumps, and shallow water.
- Tournament-Tested Performance: Proven durability and power for serious anglers.
- Digital Maximizer™ Technology: Extends battery life on select models (Ultrex, Fortrex, and some Maxxum).
- GPS Integration (Ultrex only): Combines cable steering with advanced GPS features like Spot-Lock® for automatic boat control.
Freshwater Cable-Steer Motor Control Options
Cable-steer motors use a direct mechanical connection between the foot pedal and the motor for instant response. Two cables—each about 5 feet long—run from the foot pedal to the motor head inside a protective cable jacket. In the motor head, the cables attach to the shaft, allowing precise control.
- Press the toe of the foot pedal down → the right cable pulls → motor turns right
- Press the heel down → the left cable pulls → motor turns left
This physical linkage provides immediate response time, giving anglers quick, precise maneuverability—ideal for navigating weeds, stumps, and tight spaces.
Remote Control Capability
- Ultrex: In addition to cable-steer foot pedal control, Ultrex can also be operated via a remote, offering flexibility and convenience for anglers.
Cable Extensions
- Ultrex: Cables cannot be extended
- Fortrex, Maxxum, Edge: Compatible with extension parts (see below)
Freshwater Cable-Steer Models
Ultrex
Combines intuitive cable steering with GPS-powered boat control. Features Spot-Lock® and optional Built-In MEGA Side and Down Imaging® Sonar on select models.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Ultrex
Cable Extension: Not compatible
Fortrex
Fearless and tough, Fortrex® features an anodized aluminum mount, Mono-Arm Design, and up to 112 lbs of thrust. Built to tear through weeds and stumps with uncompromising strength.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Fortrex
Cable Extension Parts:
- 8' Right Steering Cable – Part #2267506
- 8' Left Steering Cable – Part #2267516
- 8' Cable Jacket – Part #2265432
- 8' Wire Harness – Part #2261209
Maxxum
Tournament-tested and built for endurance, Maxxum® delivers power and reliability from dawn to dusk. Impact-resistant composite head and innovative features make it a favorite among serious anglers.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Maxxum
Cable Extension Parts:
- 8' Right Steering Cable – Part #2267506
- 8' Left Steering Cable – Part #2267516
- 8' Cable Jacket – Part #2265432
- 8' Wire Harness – Part #2261209
Edge
Compact yet rugged, Edge features an extruded, anodized aluminum mount and impact-resistant composite head for strength in a smaller footprint. Perfect for smaller boats and big fishing days.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Edge
Cable Extension Parts:
- 8' Right Steering Cable – Part #2267506
- 8' Left Steering Cable – Part #2267516
- 8' Cable Jacket – Part #2265432
- 8' Wire Harness – Part #2261209
Freshwater Electric-Steer Motors
Newly upgraded and packed with advanced features, these motors give you complete control from the bow. Mounted to the front of the boat with a bolt-on bracket, they pull your boat through the water for superior maneuverability and precision.
Electric-steer trolling motors are designed for anglers who want advanced control and convenience from the bow. With intuitive operation and cutting-edge technology, electric-steer motors let you focus on fishing—not boat control.
Key Advantages
- Multiple Control Options: Operate your motor using a wired foot pedal, wireless remote, or both—depending on the model. When paired with a compatible Humminbird® unit, you gain an additional control option for seamless integration.
- Advanced GPS Navigation: Features like Spot-Lock®, AutoPilot™, and route recording allow you to hold your position, follow paths, and navigate with ease.
- Digital Maximizer™ Technology: Extends battery life by delivering only the power you need, ensuring longer days on the water.
- Corrosion Protection: Built tough to withstand harsh conditions and provide years of reliable performance.
- Integration with Humminbird®: Unlock expanded features such as built-in sonar, networking, and motor operation for a fully connected fishing experience.
- Performance: Battery-extending Digital Maximizer technology
- Durability: Unmatched corrosion protection
- Integration: Compatible with Humminbird® units for built-in sonar, networking, and motor operation
- Available Models: Ulterra, Terrova, Kayak Terrova, and PowerDrive
- Benefits: Effortless control, smooth steering, and advanced connectivity for a fully integrated fishing experience
Freshwater Electric-Steer Motor Control Options
Electric-steer trolling motors offer multiple control options for ultimate convenience:
-
Wired Foot Pedal:Provides hands-free operation from the bow.
- Note: The PowerDrive is only able to use a remote or a foot pedal, not both.
-
Wireless Remote:Control your motor from anywhere on the boat.
- Note: The PowerDrive is only able to use a remote or a foot pedal, not both.
- Humminbird® Integration: When paired with a compatible unit, you can steer directly from your fish finder for seamless control.
These options allow anglers to choose the most comfortable and efficient way to operate their motor, whether standing at the bow or moving around the boat.
Freshwater Electric-Steer Motor Models
Ulterra
Ulterra sets the standard for convenience with Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim, allowing you to control everything from the remote or foot pedal—so you never have to touch the motor. Now re-engineered for even greater durability, Ulterra offers advanced GPS functionality and a programmable foot pedal for ultimate customization.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Ulterra
Terrova
Terrova® delivers unmatched boat control with Minn Kota’s most advanced GPS system, including Spot-Lock®. Combine effortless stow and deploy with powerful thrust, and you have one of the most trusted motors on the water.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Terrova
Kayak Terrova
Specifically designed for kayak anglers, Kayak Terrova brings the same advanced GPS features and reliable performance as the full-size Terrova—optimized for smaller boats. With Spot-Lock®, wireless remote control, and compact design, it’s the ultimate solution for precision fishing from a kayak.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Kayak Terrova
PowerDrive
PowerDrive™ is reliable, capable, and ready for anything a day of fishing brings. Choose a foot pedal or Minn Kota micro remote for operation (GPS-enabled models do not support foot pedal control). Built tough with a sleek mount for long-lasting performance.
Click here for more information and purchase options for PowerDrive
Riptide Bow-Mount Motors
Engineered for saltwater environments, these motors combine advanced technology with superior corrosion resistance. Mounted at the bow with a bolt-on bracket, they deliver exceptional maneuverability and control.
-
Performance:Battery-extending Digital Maximizer technology
- Cable-Steer: Fortrex and select Maxxum models
- Electric-Steer: Terrova, PowerDrive, Kayak Terrova
- Integration: Compatible with Humminbird® units for networking and motor operation
- Durability: Built for harsh saltwater conditions with unmatched corrosion resistance
-
Available Models:
- Cable-Steer: Fortrex, Maxxum
- Electric-Steer: Terrova, PowerDrive, Kayak Terrova
- Benefits: Saltwater-ready strength, advanced control, and long-lasting protection
Key Advantages
- Saltwater-Ready Construction: Engineered with advanced corrosion resistance for harsh marine environments.
- Advanced GPS Navigation: Features like Spot-Lock®, AutoPilot™, and route recording for effortless positioning and control.
- Digital Maximizer™ Technology: Extends battery life for longer days on the water.
- Versatile Control Options: Available in electric-steer and cable-steer configurations to match your fishing style.
- Humminbird® Integration: Unlock expanded features such as built-in sonar, networking, and motor operation for a fully connected system.
Riptide Bow-Mount Motor Control Options
When selecting a Riptide bow-mount trolling motor, control style is a key factor. Minn Kota offers two main options:
Hand-Tiller
- Fortrex – Rugged, responsive hand-tiller control for anglers who prefer direct steering.
- Maxxum – Durable hand-tiller design with precise handling for heavy-duty use.
Remote-Control
- Terrova – Advanced remote steering with features like i-Pilot and Spot-Lock.
- PowerDrive – Reliable remote control with easy-to-use functions for smooth operation.
- Kayak Terrova – Compact remote-controlled system designed specifically for kayaks.
Riptide Electric-Steer Models
Riptide Terrova
Unlock advanced GPS control in saltwater with Spot-Lock®, effortless stow and deploy, and all the thrust you need for tough conditions.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Riptide Terrova
Riptide Kayak Terrova
Compact, corrosion-resistant, and built for saltwater, Riptide Kayak Terrova delivers advanced GPS functionality and wireless control in a design optimized for kayaks. Perfect for anglers who demand precision, durability, and effortless maneuverability in challenging conditions.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Riptide Kayak Terrova
Riptide PowerDrive
Trusted by saltwater anglers for years, Riptide PowerDrive offers reliable performance and smart boat control features with a tough, sleek mount. Choose from a micro remote or full-function GPS remote for ultimate control.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Riptide PowerDrive
Riptide Cable-Steer Models
Riptide Fortrex
Features an extruded aluminum arm, Mono-Arm Design, and up to 112 lbs of thrust for unbeatable strength in saltwater.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Riptide Fortrex
Riptide Maxxum
Battle-tested toughness and corrosion-resistant design make Riptide Maxxum the perfect choice for navigating saltwater environments.
Click here for more information and purchase options for Riptide Maxxum
