In this article, you will learn about electric canoe motors. We’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of these motors as well as provide product reviews to help you choose the right one for your needs. You’ll also find a few helpful tips that will guide you through the process of installing an electric motor in your boat or kayak.

Electric Canoe Motors are a great way to power your canoe or kayak. They come in different shapes and sizes but work on the same principle: their propeller turns, which causes it to move through water. Most motors have a foot pedal that allows you to control how fast they go. When you want them to stop, just push down on the pedal again until they turn off completely. It’s not rocket science!

An Electric Motor For Canoe is usually powered by an internal battery pack which powers a motor with small propellers attached at its end (called “propeller”). The electricity from these batteries makes these propellers spin very fast so that when placed underwater.

Types of Electric  Canoe Motors

Electric Canoe Motors come in different shapes and sizes. There are three main types:

  • Outboard Motor

The most popular type of electric canoe motor. It has a long shaft that extends from the base, which is attached to the boat or kayak’s stern (back). You can sit on your seat when driving this type of watercraft because there isn’t anything protruding over you. This makes it easy for everyone to join their friends out on the lake without having to worry about stability issues.

  • Inboard Electric Outboard Motor

A smaller version of an electric outboard motor since its propeller sits within a small compartment under your seating area. It’s a good choice for those who want the power of an outboard motor without all of the bulk.

  • Paddle

This is the most basic type of electric canoe motor and it doesn’t require any installation. All you have to do is attach the propeller to the end of your paddle and you’re ready to go! It’s perfect for those who like to keep things simple or for those times when you don’t want to deal with batteries and charging.

Electric Motors For Canoe Reviewed

Minn Kota Endura 30 Pound Thrust Freshwater Electric Motor

Minn Kota Endura 30 Pound Thrust Freshwater Electric Motor

The Minn Kota Endura is an excellent choice for small to medium sized canoes. It provides 30 pounds of thrust which gives you plenty of power and speed when out on the water.

This electric motor comes with a mount kit that attaches easily to most boats, making installation fast and easy. The shaft length is adjustable so it’s compatible with different types of kayaks or canoes too. Another great thing about this model is how quiet it runs compared to other motors in its class, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings without disturbing nature all around you.

One drawback is that despite being advertised as suitable for freshwater use only, it actually works best in saltwater environments since there’s no gear reduction system installed like some other motors have.

PROs
  • Powerful 30-pound thrust motor
  • Adjustable shaft length for most kayaks and canoes
  • Quiet operation compared to other motors in its class
CONs
  • Only works well in saltwater environments
Newport Vessels NV-Series 36 Pound Thrust Saltwater Electric Motor

Newport Vessels NV-Series 36 Pound Thrust Saltwater Electric Motor

The Newport Vessels electric motor is another great choice for small to medium sized canoes. It comes with a mount kit that attaches easily and stays securely in place on the boat once installed properly, allowing you to enjoy your paddling without worrying about it falling into the water or getting in your way.

This model provides 36 pounds of thrust which allows you to travel at speeds up to five miles per hour depending on battery size, weight of canoe and other factors. The power cord is 12 feet long so there’s plenty of room between engine and batteries if they’re stored away from each side of the boat like many are. One drawback is that this particular electric motor doesn’t come with its own mount kit but all necessary hardware needed for installation will be included.

PROs
  • Affordable
  • 36 pounds of thrust is enough power for most canoes if batteries are fully charged and in good condition.
  • 12 foot cord allows plenty of room between engine and battery storage areas.
CONs
  • No mount kit included
Goplus 8-Speed Electric Motor

Goplus 8-Speed Electric Motor

This small electric motor from Goplus is another great choice for those looking to upgrade their canoe or kayak. It provides a steady nine pounds of thrust, which can propel your vessel at speeds up to five miles per hour.

It’s simple and easy to install with adjustable support poles that tighten down securely using wing nuts so there’s no need for tools like many other models require you to use.

It can be used in freshwater or saltwater and has a flexible 36-inch shaft that allows you to adjust the canoe’s position for more efficient paddling. It also features an ergonomic “T” handle with trigger switch on top of the motor controller, which is easy to grip while maneuvering your vessel through water.

This electric motor offers everything one might need when looking to upgrade their boat without having to spend too much money doing so. Not only does it provide plenty of thrust but it also comes at an affordable price point compared to many other models out there today.

PROs
  • Provides nine pounds of thrust
  • Can propel your canoe or kayak at speeds up to five miles per hour
  • Simple and easy to install, adjustable support poles that tighten down securely using wing nuts
  • Can be used in freshwater or saltwater
  • Flexible 36-inch shaft allows you to adjust the canoe’s position for more efficient paddling
CONs
  • None
Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust Electric Motor

Newport Vessels 55 Pound Thrust Electric Motor

This electric motor from Newport Vessels is another excellent choice for buyers looking to upgrade their canoe or kayak. It comes with a 55-pound thrust and can propel your vessel at speeds up to seven miles per hour, which makes it great for larger boats.

It features an adjustable support pole that allows you to raise the motor’s height when necessary so there’s no need for tools like many other models require you to use in order to do this. You simply tighten down the poles using wing nuts which can be done easily without any sort of special equipment required making things much simpler than they might be otherwise.

The shaft on this model measures 36 inches in length and has a flexible design allowing it move around as needed while still providing plenty of power. It also comes with a five-year warranty from the manufacturer, which is excellent coverage and should give you plenty of peace of mind in case anything goes wrong.

PROs
  • Comes with a five-year warranty
  • Adjustable support pole makes it easy to use without any tools
  • 36 inch shaft is flexible and provides plenty of power
CONs
  • Only goes up to seven miles per hour
Newport Vessels Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Motor

Newport Vessels Kayak Series 36lb Thrust Electric Motor

Another excellent electric motor from Newport Vessels, this kayak model is designed for smaller crafts and comes with a 36-pound thrust. Boasting speeds of up to four miles per hour it’s still powerful enough to make paddling much easier than you might expect without it, but isn’t quite as fast as many other models on the market.

However, if your main priority is to get around quickly regardless of how easy or hard that happens to be then this probably won’t matter too much in practice because at top speed there are only minor differences between boat types anyway. What does matter though is efficiency since these motors consume battery power fairly quickly no matter what type they happen to be so you want something that will allow you move faster while conserving battery life for as long a time as possible.

PROs
  • Good value for money
  • Efficient
CONs
  • May be too powerful for smaller boats
Watersnake ASP Salt Water Rated Transom Mount Electric Motor

Watersnake ASP Salt Water Rated Transom Mount Electric Motor

Another excellent electric canoe motor, this model from Watersnake is designed to be used in salt water and comes with a 19-pound thrust. It has speeds of up to two miles per hour so isn’t as powerful as many other models on the market but it’s still more than enough for small boats that might only weigh around 400 pounds or so. It’s a very lightweight motor that weighs less than ten pounds and has a charge time of just two hours, which is one of the shortest on this list.

One helpful tip for using electric canoe motors in salt water is to rinse them off with fresh water after each use so they don’t corrode. This model also allows you to control it from up to 100 feet away when attached to your boat, making it easy to steer even when not right next to the craft itself.

PROs
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Controls can be used from 100 feet away
  • Short charge time
CONs
  • Not as powerful as other models on the market.
MinnKota Edge Bowmount Foot Control Electric Motor

MinnKota Edge Bowmount Foot Control Electric Motor

One of the most popular electric canoe motors on the market, this model from MinnKota is a bowmount foot control motor that comes with a 55-pound thrust. It has speeds of up to five miles per hour and can be used in both salt water and fresh water. The best feature of this particular model is its easy-to-use foot pedal which gives you complete control over the speed and direction of the boat even when your hands are full.

It also has a quick release bracket so you can easily remove it from your boat when not in use, as well as an automatic break system that stops the propeller from spinning if something gets caught in it. This motor runs quietly and smoothly, making it perfect for fishing or long trips.

With a 12-volt battery and charger, this motor is easy to use with most boat types since it comes with batteries that are specifically designed for boats rather than cars or trucks. It also has an LED indicator which tells you when the power is on and working properly as well as low voltage protection so your battery doesn’t die if it stays idle too long. The MinnKota Edge is one of the best out there in terms of reliability and value for money making it perfect for anyone looking into buying their first electric motor.

PROs
  • Very popular model with great reviews
  • Comes with a foot pedal for hands free use
CONs
  • Foot pedal is not as responsive as hand controls
AQUOS Haswing Cayman B Bow Mount Electric Motor

AQUOS Haswing Cayman B Bow Mount Electric Motor

The AQUOS Haswing Cayman B Bow Mount Electric Motor is a 12 volt, 55 lb thrust motor that is designed for smaller boats and canoes. It measures 14.17”L x 11.02”W x six .seventy five”H and has an auto-shutoff feature that helps to preserve battery life.

This motor comes with a hand control system that is ideal for smaller boats and has foot pedals to help you get even better speed when going straight.

It runs quietly and smoothly, but does not work very well in rough waters or fast moving rivers due to the low thrusting power of 55 pounds . It also only moves at two speeds: forward and reverse.

The Cayman B is a good choice for those looking for an electric motor that is easy to use, lightweight, and has a low thrusting power.

PROs
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Low thrusting power
CONs
  • Does not work well in rough waters or fast moving rivers
Ideaz Drill Paddle

Ideaz Drill Paddle

If you’re looking for a quality electric canoe motor, the Ideaz Drill Paddle is a great option. This powerful unit can easily propel your canoe through even the roughest waters, and it’s quiet enough that you won’t disturb any nearby wildlife. The Drill Paddle also comes with a handy built-in charger, so you can charge it anywhere on the go.

The Drill Paddle is a 12-volt, 25 lb thrust motor that measures 13.70”L x eight .five”W x seven inches thick and weighs just ten pounds , making it easy to transport from one spot to the next. The unit comes with an ergonomically designed handle for comfort during use, as well as a built-in charger that can plug into any 12V auxiliary power outlet, like the cigarette lighter in your car.

The Drill Paddle is versatile and lightweight enough to be used for more than just canoeing . You could also use it with kayaks or inflatable boats , so you can enjoy motorized boating without having to worry about gas or oil.

PROs
  • Quiet
  • Powerful
  • Charges quickly and easily
CONs
  • High price tag

What to Look for in an Electric Motor for your Canoe or Kayak

Saltwater vs. Freshwater

This is the big question that everyone has when they first start looking for an Electric motor and it’s a good one. There are some major differences between freshwater and saltwater electric motors:

  • Freshwater

These types of outboard motors only work on fresh water lakes, rivers or ponds so you can’t take them out into the ocean or any other body of salt water without damaging them. If you’re planning to stay within your local waters then this type will do just fine since most people don’t need their canoe/kayak to go too far from home.

  • Saltwater

Saltwater kayaks typically use more current than freshwater ones because there isn’t as much resistance in open bodies of salty liquid compared with fresh water. This means that you’ll need to make sure your electric motor has the power to get through it. You can do this by double checking their amperage ratings before buying one so that you don’t pick up a model that won’t meet your needs in terms of strength and speed.

Canoe or Kayak Size

This is another decision that you’ll need to make before purchasing an electric motor. Outboard motors come in two different sizes:

  • Small

These types of outboard motors are great for small kayaks or canoes since they’re smaller and easier to carry around compared with the bigger ones. This makes it easy for anyone who might not feel like hauling something too heavy, especially if there’s only one spot available on your boat/kayak instead of two (one driver and one passenger).

  • Large

These larger versions were made specifically to fit into a second slot so that someone else could join along as well which means more fun times! They also have stronger batteries, longer propellers and are generally faster than their smaller counterparts.

Shaft Length

The length of the shaft is another thing you’ll need to take into account when choosing your electric canoe motor. It needs to be long enough that it can reach from the engine to the water but not so long that it gets in the way or becomes difficult to manage while paddling. You can find this information in the product specifications before making your purchase.

Mounting Ability

Some electric canoe motors come with a mount that can be attached to the boat while others require you to make your own. If you’re not handy with tools, it might be best to go for a model that comes with its own mount.

The type of motor you choose will also determine how easy it is to install. Some are as simple as screwing them into place while others require more assembly. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and know how to use them before trying to install your electric canoe motor.

Thrust and Voltage

The amount of thrust a motor provides is important to consider when making your purchase. It determines how quickly your canoe will move and how much load it can handle. You’ll also need to take into account the voltage of your electric canoe motor. This information can be found in the product specifications.

Electric canoe motors come in a variety of voltages so make sure you get one that’s compatible with the batteries you’re using. Most 12-volt motors will work with most 12-volt batteries but there are some exceptions so double check before making your purchase.

Required Maintenance

Just like any other piece of equipment, electric canoe motors require some maintenance to keep them running in top condition. Most of this is basic stuff like keeping the blades clean and free of debris or checking the oil level on a regular basis.

The frequency of this maintenance will depend on how often you use your electric canoe motor. If you only take it out for short trips a couple times a month, then you won’t have to do much more than check the basics every once in a while. But if you’re using it regularly, you’ll need to perform more extensive maintenance at least once a season.

Installation and Usage Tips Electric Motor For Canoe

  • When installing the electric motor for your canoe, it is important to keep in mind the weight of the unit. Be sure that your canoe can support the extra weight before installing the motor.
  • It is also crucial to consider how you will be using the electric motor. If you plan on frequently transporting your canoe, it is important to find a model that is lightweight and easy to remove.
  • Make sure that you have enough space to store the electric motor when it is not in use. Many models fold up for easy storage.
  • Be sure to read all instructions carefully before installing or using your electric motor. Improper installation or use could result in damage to both the canoe and the motor.
  • When paddling with the electric motor, be sure to use caution. The propeller can cause injury if you are not careful.
  • Always wear a life jacket when using the electric motor.
  • Never operate the electric motor near waterfalls, rapids, or other areas where there is a danger of being swept away.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and never operate the electric motor in busy waterways or around boats and ships.
  • If you plan on using the electric motor for fishing, be sure to check local regulations governing the use of motors on lakes and rivers.
  • Finally, have fun and enjoy your electric canoe motor!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of owning an electric motor for my canoe?

There are several benefits to adding an electric motor. They can be used in calm water where paddling is not necessary, they do not require gasoline or oil, and they run quietly so that you will disturb the wildlife less than with a gas-powered engine.

What types of batteries can I use on my electric motor?

Most rechargeable 12 volt marine deep cycle batteries work well with most brands of motors. If your battery does not come with its own charging unit, it is recommended to purchase one when buying a new battery so that you don’t have to disconnect the old unit from time to time just to charge it separately.

How long will the battery last on a full charge?

This depends on how often you use the electric motor and what type of battery you have. Generally, however, expect to get around four or five hours of use out of a fully charged battery.

What is the maximum speed of an electric canoe motor?

Most electric motors have a top speed of around five miles per hour.

Is it safe to operate an electric motor near waterfalls and rapids?

No – for safety reasons it is always best to avoid operating any kind of machinery in these areas.

How much noise does an electric motor make?

Electric motors are very quiet compared to gas-powered engines. If you are concerned about noise, however, it is best to check the decibel level of any model before buying.

Can I use an electric motor on a small pond?

Electric motors can be used in calm water without the risk of polluting or disturbing wildlife. However, if your pond is extremely small and shallow – less than two feet deep – then there may not be enough room for the propeller to function properly and effectively.

Conclusion

There are many different types of electric motors for canoes and kayaks, but not all are created equal. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best one for your needs. Electric canoe motors come in a variety of shapes and sizes that will depend on what type of boat it is being used with, whether or not the motor has an integrated battery system, how much power you need (if any), etc. Whether you want to upgrade your paddle-powered experience or go full throttle without peddling at all – we have reviews and installation tips here! If there’s anything else you’re wondering about these handy little gadgets, be sure to scroll down below our FAQs section where we’ve answered some common questions. Happy motoring!