Boat Trolling Motor Maintenance Tips
When it comes to getting around on a small fishing boat, trolling motors take a fair amount of abuse, bumping into rocks, running for hours and sometimes getting tangled up in vegetation.
Unlike outboard motors, trolling motors don’t require much maintenance, but there are several things you want to do regularly to ensure your “little motor that could” lasts longer. Here are a handful of things you can do to keep your trolling motor well maintained.
Clean the Trolling Motor
It’s always good practice to rinse your trolling motor with fresh water after every ride, and clear out any debris that’s stuck to it.
Simply hose down the trolling motor with water after every trip, and give it a good mild water and soap bath. Wipe off any grime and pull out any weeds after each ride to keep it performing at its peak. When it’s dry, use only a water-based silicone spray and a soft cloth on the shaft to keep it lubricated.
Inspect the Propeller
As mentioned, trolling motors take a fair amount of abuse, including getting weeds and fishing line tangled up in the propeller, so you should inspect and clean the prop after each use.
Leaving tangled weeds and fishing line behind the prop can damage the seals and allow water to get inside the motor. When inspecting the propeller, also check that the prop nut is properly secured, and inspect the prop blades for nicks, dents, cracks and any other damage. Replace the prop if you find any serious damage.
When cleaning the propeller, simply disconnect the power, pull the prop out and remove anything you find tangled up in the shaft.
Check the Battery
Disconnect the battery to the trolling motor when it’s not in use, then check the battery wires and hardware for any corrosion or dirt and clean them off.
It’s good practice to recharge the battery as soon as possible after each use, so that it’s fully charged for every ride and you’re not left stranded. While you’re at it, inspect all of the wires and cables on the trolling motor itself. Look for corroded or damaged wiring, and repair or replace them as needed.
Tighten Mounting Bolts
Waves, vibrations and general movement can loosen a trolling motor’s mounting nuts and bolts. Inspect all of the trolling motor’s mounting points on your boat regularly, and tighten them up as needed.
Trolling Motor Storage Maintenance
Before putting your trolling motor away for the offseason, simply disconnect it from the battery, then clean and lubricate it with water-based silicone spray and store it in a dry, weather-protected place.