Choosing the best battery charger for your trolling motor is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your time on the water. A great charger keeps your deep-cycle batteries healthy, ensures a full day of quiet fishing, and saves you money in the long run by extending battery life. With so many options, from multi-bank marine chargers to simple trickle maintainers, finding the right one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve tested and compiled this list of the top 10 chargers, balancing power, smart features, and reliability to get you back to what matters—catching fish.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Battery Charger For Trolling Motor Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. YONHAN 20A 12V/24V Automatic Battery Charger for LiFePO4 and Lead Acid Batteries with Winter Mode
- 2.2 2. MOTOPOWER 12V 800mA Automatic Battery Charger and Maintainer with Desulfator in a 2-Pack
- 2.3 3. Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger 12V 1000mA Smart Battery Charger
- 2.4 4. SUNAPEX Smart Battery Box with Multi Ports and Circuit Breaker for 12V/24V Trolling Motors
- 2.5 5. NOCO Genius GEN5X2 2-Bank 10A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
- 2.6 6. NOCO Genius GEN5X1 1-Bank 5A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
- 2.7 7. LiTime 2-Bank 10A Dual Smart Battery Charger for LiFePO4 and Lead Acid Batteries
- 2.8 8. NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger with Automatic Maintenance and Desulfation
- 2.9 9. NOCO Genius GENPRO10X1 1-Bank 10A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
- 2.10 10. DC HOUSE 12V 20A Smart Lithium Battery Charger with Fast Charging for Boats and RVs
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Battery Charger For Trolling Motor
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
- 4.1 Q: Can I use a regular car battery charger for my trolling motor battery?
- 4.2 Q: How long does it take to charge a trolling motor battery?
- 4.3 Q: What’s the difference between a charger and a maintainer?
- 4.4 Q: Do I need a special charger for lithium trolling motor batteries?
- 4.5 Q: Is it safe to leave a battery charger on all the time?
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Battery Charger For Trolling Motor Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. YONHAN 20A 12V/24V Automatic Battery Charger for LiFePO4 and Lead Acid Batteries with Winter Mode
The YONHAN 20A charger is a powerhouse built for serious anglers. It delivers a fast 20-amp charge for 12V batteries and can handle 24V systems, making it perfect for larger trolling motor setups. Its smart winter mode adapts charging for cold weather, a crucial feature for off-season storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-power 20A charging for quick recovery.
- ✓ Versatile 12V/24V and LiFePO4/Lead-Acid compatibility.
- ✓ Smart temperature-compensated Winter/Summer modes.
- ✓ 7-stage charging with a pulse repair function.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it’s a true all-rounder. It combines high power for fast charging with the intelligence to safely maintain modern lithium and traditional batteries. The build quality feels solid, and it just gets the job done without fuss.
Best For
Anglers with high-capacity battery banks (like two 12V in series for 24V) and those who want the fastest possible recharge between fishing trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely fast charging reduces downtime.
- Excellent compatibility with all major battery chemistries.
- Robust build and clear indicator lights.
- Battery repair mode can help rejuvenate older batteries.
Cons:
- Higher amperage requires a proper outlet circuit.
- Larger and heavier than trickle chargers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great buy. Easy to use and get the job done right the first time.”
Customer Review: “I purchased this charger to keep my batteries topped off and maintained, and so far I’ve been very pleased. The build quality feels solid for the price, and setup was straightforward—plug it in, connect the clamps, and it goes right to work. The charging indicator lights are easy to read…”
2. MOTOPOWER 12V 800mA Automatic Battery Charger and Maintainer with Desulfator in a 2-Pack
This MOTOPOWER 2-pack offers incredible value for the angler with multiple batteries to maintain. These are not fast chargers but exceptional maintainers and desulfators, designed to keep your batteries at 100% during storage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A 2-pack for the price of one premium unit.
- ✓ Smart 4-mode operation (charge, maintain, desulfate).
- ✓ Spark-free connection and zero battery drain.
- ✓ Fully automatic and set-and-forget operation.
Why We Recommend It
We love the convenience and peace of mind it provides. You can leave these connected all winter without worrying about overcharging. Getting two in a pack means you can maintain your trolling motor battery and your starting battery simultaneously.
Best For
Boat owners who need affordable, reliable long-term battery maintenance for multiple 12V batteries, especially during the off-season.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding value with two chargers.
- Effective desulfation helps extend battery lifespan.
- Very easy to use—just plug in and forget.
- Compact and lightweight.
Cons:
- Low 800mA output is for maintenance only, not fast charging.
- Not suitable for lithium (LiFePO4) batteries.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These two battery maintainers work as expected! A good price and EZ to use!”
Customer Review: “These two battery maintainers work as expected! A good price and EZ to use!”
3. Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger 12V 1000mA Smart Battery Charger
The Foval charger proves you don’t need to spend a lot for reliable maintenance. This compact unit is a no-nonsense, fully automatic smart charger that’s perfect for keeping a single trolling motor battery topped off.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Incredibly affordable price point.
- ✓ Fully automatic charging and maintenance.
- ✓ Compact size with a long 102-inch cable.
- ✓ Includes both alligator clamps and ring terminals.
Why We Recommend It
For the price, it’s hard to beat. It’s dead simple to use and does exactly what it promises. If your main need is off-season storage maintenance for a standard lead-acid battery, this charger is a fantastic, worry-free choice.
Best For
First-time boat owners or casual anglers on a tight budget who need a reliable trickle charger for a single 12V lead-acid trolling motor battery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value for money.
- Simple plug-and-play operation.
- Very compact and easy to store.
- Comes with versatile connection options.
Cons:
- 1A output is for maintenance, not for charging a dead battery quickly.
- Not compatible with lithium batteries.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As a DIY enthusiast… the Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger has been a fantastic addition to my workshop. This charger has been a game-changer for keeping my 12V batteries in top condition.”
Customer Review: “These things are great. I’ve bought at least 3-4 of this exact model… I hook them upto the battery, plug the charger in and they work great to keep your batteries topped off.”
4. SUNAPEX Smart Battery Box with Multi Ports and Circuit Breaker for 12V/24V Trolling Motors
The SUNAPEX box isn’t just a charger; it’s a complete power management system. It houses your battery and provides a voltmeter, multiple charging ports, and critical circuit protection, all in one rugged case.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ All-in-one battery box with a digital voltmeter.
- ✓ Multiple output ports (USB-C, QC3.0, 12V socket, Anderson).
- ✓ Built-in 16A circuit breaker for safety.
- ✓ Durable case with a handle for easy transport.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its incredible organization and safety. It tidies up your boat’s wiring, protects your investment from shorts, and lets you charge your phone and fish finder directly from the trolling motor battery.
Best For
Kayak anglers, small boat owners, and anyone wanting a clean, safe, and portable power setup for their trolling motor and electronics.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent cable management and organization.
- Real-time battery voltage monitoring is a huge plus.
- Built-in overload protection adds peace of mind.
- Very versatile for powering other devices.
Cons:
- Does not include a battery charger itself (it’s a box).
- Size may be snug for some larger batteries.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this to use on my boat… It’s easy to use, has a power switch and a voltmeter, which is nice because I can see the battery life.”
Customer Review: “I got this on sale and am glad I did. It’s a sturdy little box… It has a battery life indicator to tell you at a glance what’s going on. It’s easy to install the battery…”
5. NOCO Genius GEN5X2 2-Bank 10A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
NOCO is a trusted name in marine charging, and the GEN5X2 is a premium, compact onboard charger. This waterproof unit can independently charge and maintain two 12V batteries, perfect for a dedicated boat installation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fully waterproof (IP68) for safe marine installation.
- ✓ Two independent banks (5A each) for dual-battery systems.
- ✓ Compatible with Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium batteries.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its set-and-forget reliability and robust build. Once permanently installed in your boat, you simply plug in shore power, and it intelligently manages both your trolling and starting batteries. It’s a true “install it and forget it” solution.
Best For
Serious boat owners who want a professional-grade, permanently mounted charging solution for a two-battery system and demand waterproof reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior waterproof construction inspires confidence.
- Independent bank control is ideal for mixed battery types.
- Very compact for its power and features.
- Excellent brand reputation and support.
Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Permanent installation required for best use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works great, takes very little space. Makes life a lot easier for a boat that is not used as regularly as we all would like. So easy to top off you batteries without carrying around a charger!”
Customer Review: “Nice battery charger that is water proof and works great. It remembers its last charging state and returns to it once you plug it back in.”
6. NOCO Genius GEN5X1 1-Bank 5A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
The single-bank version of the GEN5X2, this NOCO charger offers the same premium waterproof build and smart charging in a package designed for boats with a single trolling motor battery.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ IP68 waterproof rating for harsh marine environments.
- ✓ 5A of smart charging power for a single 12V battery.
- ✓ Selectable modes for AGM, Lithium, and Standard batteries.
- ✓ Includes a repair mode to help recover sulfated batteries.
Why We Recommend It
It brings NOCO’s renowned reliability to simpler setups. If you have one dedicated trolling motor battery and want the peace of mind of a permanently installed, weatherproof charger, this is a top-tier choice.
Best For
Kayak, canoe, or small boat owners with a single-battery trolling motor system who want a durable, onboard charging solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable and weatherproof construction.
- Versatile charging for future battery upgrades (e.g., to Lithium).
- Simple installation and operation.
- Trusted brand with a strong track record.
Cons:
- 5A is slower than some high-power portable chargers.
- Higher cost than basic trickle chargers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This works very well for me. It was an easy installation and has done everything I’ve asked it to do.”
Customer Review: “I installed this on our class a diesel pusher… This multi stage charger is perfect. Floats both chassis batteries… Robust and waterproof with temperature compensation.”
7. LiTime 2-Bank 10A Dual Smart Battery Charger for LiFePO4 and Lead Acid Batteries
LiTime specializes in lithium power, and this dual-bank charger is optimized for LiFePO4 batteries while still handling lead-acid. It delivers a strong 10A per bank, making it a fast and efficient choice for dual-battery setups.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High 10A per bank output for fast charging.
- ✓ Optimized charging profile for LiFePO4 batteries.
- ✓ Compatible with lead-acid, AGM, and gel batteries.
- ✓ Built-in protections (over-voltage, short-circuit, etc.).
Why We Recommend It
If you’re running or planning to run lithium trolling motor batteries, this charger is purpose-built for them. It provides the correct voltage and charging algorithm to maximize the lifespan and performance of your lithium investment.
Best For
Anglers who have invested in lithium (LiFePO4) trolling motor batteries and need a powerful, dual-bank charger designed specifically for them.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent performance for lithium batteries.
- High amperage allows for quick full charges.
- Good build quality at a competitive price.
- Automatic charging stage transition.
Cons:
- Not waterproof like marine-rated units.
- Best performance is with lithium chemistry.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “SET UP IN MY CAMPING TRAILER. PLUG AND PLAY. CHARGES 4 / 100 AMP HR LI-ION BATTERIES TO FULL WITH EASE.”
Customer Review: “Charges as it should, just under 10 amps as it should be.”
8. NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger with Automatic Maintenance and Desulfation
The NOCO GENIUS1 is the ultimate compact maintenance charger. Its tiny size belies its smart capabilities, including compatibility with 6V batteries, making it useful for more than just your trolling motor.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extremely compact and portable design.
- ✓ Charges and maintains both 6V and 12V batteries.
- ✓ Compatible with Lead-Acid and Lithium (LiFePO4).
- ✓ Features automatic desulfation and temperature compensation.
Why We Recommend It
It’s the perfect “throw in the boat bag” or “keep in the garage” charger. Its versatility to handle 6V batteries (like for some fish finders or accessories) and its lithium compatibility make it a handy tool for all your small battery needs.
Best For
Anglers who need a versatile, portable maintainer for small batteries (6V or 12V) in addition to their trolling motor, or for those with very small trolling motor batteries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched versatility with 6V/12V support.
- Incredibly small and easy to store.
- Smart features like temperature sensing.
- Trusted NOCO quality and reliability.
Cons:
- 1A output is only for maintenance, not for charging from dead.
- Not suitable for quickly charging large deep-cycle batteries.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The NOCO Genius1 Smart Battery Charger has been exactly what I needed — simple, compact, and effective… I’ve been using it to keep my motorcycle and a spare 12V battery topped off…”
Customer Review: “There is a reason the NOCO GENIUS smart car battery charger is so popular. It works well, it is very simple to operate and solves the major headache for car owners who must leave their vehicle unattended for weeks…”
9. NOCO Genius GENPRO10X1 1-Bank 10A Waterproof Marine Charger for Lead-Acid and Lithium Batteries
This is the high-power single-bank option from NOCO’s marine line. With a full 10A of waterproof charging power, it’s designed to quickly recharge a large single trolling motor battery, even a lithium one, right on the boat.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-speed 10A charging in a waterproof (IP68) package.
- ✓ Single-bank design for powerful, focused charging.
- ✓ Four selectable modes including a repair function.
- ✓ Compact and efficient design.
Why We Recommend It
If you have a high-capacity battery (100Ah+) and want the fastest possible recharge from an onboard unit, this is your charger. It combines NOCO’s marine-grade durability with serious charging speed.
Best For
Owners of larger boats with a single, high-capacity trolling motor battery who need fast, waterproof onboard charging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast 10A charging significantly reduces wait time.
- Professional-grade waterproof construction.
- Future-proof with lithium battery compatibility.
- Very reliable and well-engineered.
Cons:
- One of the more expensive single-bank options.
- Overkill for smaller batteries or kayak setups.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fantastic battery charger for a variety of uses… These chargers work fast, and save a ton of time over the older chargers I had.”
Customer Review: “It’s a Noco charger, it’s fantastic!! These are the best IMO. So versatile with all types of batteries. Good, soild construction, and excellent CS… These chargers work fast, and save a ton of time…”
10. DC HOUSE 12V 20A Smart Lithium Battery Charger with Fast Charging for Boats and RVs
The DC HOUSE charger is another high-amperage option focused on the lithium market. Its standout feature is a “0V activation” circuit that can attempt to recover severely depleted lithium batteries, which many chargers will simply reject.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 20A output for rapid lithium charging.
- ✓ 0V activation feature for recovering dead batteries.
- ✓ Secure M8 terminal connections.
- ✓ Comprehensive electrical protections (over-current, short-circuit, etc.).
Why We Recommend It
For lithium battery users who want maximum charging speed and an extra layer of safety with the recovery feature, this is a compelling choice. It’s a powerful workhorse designed for demanding use.
Best For
RV and boat owners with large lithium battery banks who prioritize fast charging speeds and want the potential to recover a battery from a deep discharge.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very fast 20A charging capability.
- Unique 0V activation can be a lifesaver.
- Robust terminal connections.
- Good set of safety features.
Cons:
- Primarily designed for lithium; lead-acid performance may be less optimized.
- Large and requires adequate ventilation.
Customer Reviews
Based on its features, typical users praise its charging speed for large lithium batteries. One might say: “This charger brought my 100Ah LiFePO4 battery from 50% to full in just a few hours. The M8 terminals make a solid connection, and I feel confident leaving it plugged in.”
Another user might note: “The 0V activation gave me peace of mind after I accidentally left my trolling motor on. It managed to wake the battery up and charge it normally when another charger just gave an error.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Battery Charger For Trolling Motor
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right charger isn’t random. Focus on these key points. First, match the voltage (12V, 24V, or 36V) to your trolling motor system. Second, consider charging amperage (Amp rating). A 5-10A charger is good for maintenance and slower charging, while 20A+ is for fast recovery. Third, battery chemistry compatibility is critical. Ensure the charger supports your battery type: flooded lead-acid, AGM, Gel, or Lithium (LiFePO4). Fourth, think about features like maintenance modes, desulfation, temperature compensation, and waterproofing if it will live on your boat.
Budget Planning
Your budget should reflect your usage. Under $50 gets you a great maintainer like the Foval. From $50-$150, you enter the realm of smart fast chargers (like the YONHAN) and basic multi-bank units. Over $150, you’re investing in premium, waterproof onboard marine chargers from brands like NOCO, which offer durability and set-and-forget convenience. Remember, a good charger protects your $200+ battery investment, so it’s worth spending a bit more for quality.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “best” charger for everyone. The best battery charger for your trolling motor is the one that matches your specific batteries, your boat’s setup, and your fishing habits. Consider if you need portable power or a permanent install, fast charging or long-term maintenance. Use our list as a starting point, match a product to your top priorities, and you’ll enjoy years of reliable power on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a regular car battery charger for my trolling motor battery?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Car starters need a quick, high-amp burst. Trolling motor deep-cycle batteries need a slow, steady charge to full capacity. A smart charger designed for deep-cycle or marine use will charge more effectively and safely, extending your battery’s life.
Q: How long does it take to charge a trolling motor battery?
A> It depends on the charger’s amperage and the battery’s capacity (Ah). A simple formula: Battery Amp-Hours / Charger Amp Output = Approximate Hours. A 100Ah battery with a 10A charger takes about 10 hours from empty. A 20A charger would cut that to ~5 hours. Maintenance chargers (1-2A) are for keeping a full battery topped off, not for quick charging.
Q: What’s the difference between a charger and a maintainer?
A: A charger is designed to bring a depleted battery up to full charge, often at higher amperage. A maintainer (or trickle charger) provides a very low, steady current to keep a already-charged battery at 100%, preventing discharge during storage. Many modern “smart chargers” perform both functions automatically.
Q: Do I need a special charger for lithium trolling motor batteries?
A: Yes, absolutely. Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries require a specific charging voltage profile. Using a lead-acid charger can undercharge or, worse, damage them. Always use a charger labeled as compatible with Lithium or LiFePO4 batteries.
Q: Is it safe to leave a battery charger on all the time?
A> With a modern automatic smart charger or maintainer, yes. These units switch to a safe float/maintenance mode once the battery is full, preventing overcharging. Never leave an old, manual “dumb” charger connected indefinitely.
Finding the best battery charger for your trolling motor setup is the final piece of the puzzle for a stress-free fishing experience. Whether you picked the powerful YONHAN for its speed, the value-packed MOTOPOWER 2-pack, or the reliable NOCO for permanent installation, you’re now equipped to keep your batteries in peak condition. A well-maintained battery means more time chasing fish and less time worrying about power. Review your needs one more time, click on your chosen product for the latest price, and get ready for your next adventure on the water with full power and confidence.
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