Short Answer: Start with Fullriver’s DC Series for a dedicated trolling motor bank, compare FFD / Full Force when purchase price is a priority, or consider FT / Full Throttle when you also need engine-starting capability and your equipment permits dual-purpose use. The recommended DC and FFD models offer 85Ah in Group 24, 105Ah in Group 27 and 115Ah in Group 31. Choose enough capacity for your expected use, then confirm physical fit. When using 12V batteries, a 12V motor uses one battery, while 24V and 36V motors use two or three matched batteries wired in series.
Your trolling motor helps you work along shorelines, adjust your position, and navigate fishing spots. Its battery needs to fit your boat and provide reliable power throughout your trip.
The best trolling motor battery matches your motor’s voltage, supplies enough capacity, and handles repeated cycling. Fullriver’s DC, FFD, and FT options cover three common marine battery platforms.
Why Choose an AGM Battery for Your Trolling Motor?
An AGM battery is a lead acid battery that holds electrolyte within absorbent glass mats. Its construction eliminates routine watering, reducing the regular maintenance associated with a serviceable flooded battery. Fullriver’s recommended AGM options provide:
- Reduced routine upkeep: No electrolyte levels to top off.
- Vibration resistance: Internal construction designed to handle movement and vibration.
- Cycling capability: Deep cycle and dual-purpose options for sustained loads.
- Marine sizing choices: Models across familiar Group 24, 27, and 31 platforms.
A flooded lead acid battery may offer a lower purchase price, while a lithium battery using lithium iron phosphate chemistry can reduce weight. LiFePO4 is a type of lithium-ion battery, and its suitability depends on the motor, charger, and discharge requirements. Fullriver AGM batteries give boaters a no-watering option with established deep cycle and dual-purpose choices. They still need compatible charging, a ventilated compartment, and installation according to Fullriver’s instructions.
What Size Battery Do You Need for a Trolling Motor?
To choose an AGM battery for your setup, work through three requirements: motor voltage, physical fit and capacity for your fishing trips.
Match Your Motor’s Voltage
Check your motor’s required voltage. Common configurations using 12-volt batteries include:
- 12V motor: One 12V battery.
- 24V motor: Two matched 12V batteries connected in series.
- 36V motor: Three matched 12V batteries connected in series.
Series wiring adds voltage without adding amp-hour capacity. Two 12V, 105Ah batteries form a 24V, 105Ah bank. Follow manufacturer instructions for cable sizing and safety features, including fuses or circuit breakers. Minn Kota’s battery and wiring guide illustrates these configurations.
Choose Between Group 24, 27, and 31
Battery group numbers identify physical size categories. A Group 24 battery is not a 24-volt battery. Within Fullriver’s recommended DC and FFD lineup:
- Group 24: The DC85-12 and FFD85-12 each provide 85Ah at the 20-hour rate. The DC model measures 10.24 × 6.65 × 9.29 inches, while the FFD model measures 10.24 × 6.61 × 9.33 inches.
- Group 27: The DC105-12 and FFD105-12 each provide 105Ah at the 20-hour rate. The DC model measures 12.07 × 6.65 × 9.84 inches, while the FFD model measures 12.13 × 6.61 × 9.33 inches.
- Group 31: The DC115-12 and FFD115-12 each provide 115Ah at the 20-hour rate. The DC model measures 12.91 × 6.77 × 9.49 inches, while the FFD model measures 13.07 × 6.89 × 9.49 inches.
Dimensions are listed as length × width × height. Allow additional clearance for cable connections and terminal covers.
Group 24 may suit a space-limited installation when its capacity meets the motor’s needs. These Group 27 and 31 models add capacity but require more space. Check tray dimensions, terminal clearance, weight, and hold-down compatibility before upgrading.
Match Battery Capacity to Your Fishing Trips
An amp hour (Ah) measures battery capacity at a specified discharge rate. Higher comparable ratings generally mean more available energy at the same voltage. Running for long periods against current uses more energy than occasional repositioning. Runtime also depends on:
- How often the motor runs and at what speed.
- Wind and current.
- Boat weight, passengers, and gear.
- Battery temperature, condition, and state of charge.
- How deeply you discharge the battery before recharging.
Ah ratings do not guarantee runtime. The DC105-12 is a 105 Ah battery at the 20-hour rate but provides 86Ah over five hours. Follow your motor manufacturer’s capacity guidance and allow a reserve when fishing for an extended period.
Compare Reserve Capacity
Reserve capacity measures sustained output. A standard RC rating shows how many minutes a fully charged 12V battery supplies 25 amps at 80°F before reaching 10.5 volts. Check the stated current; Fullriver also lists discharge times at other loads.
Reserve capacity is not a fishing runtime guarantee or discharge target. Tournament anglers can use it alongside amp-hour ratings and motor current draw to compare batteries for long days.
Which Fullriver Battery Series Should You Choose?
Compare each series once you know your voltage and available space.
DC Series for Dedicated Deep Cycle Use
The DC Series is Fullriver’s premium deep cycle AGM lineup. Each deep cycle battery uses thick, high-purity virgin lead plates for repeated cycling and reinforced internal connections for vibration resistance.
For a dedicated trolling motor bank, compare the DC85-12, DC105-12, and DC115-12 in Group 24, 27, and 31 sizes. Start here when repeated deep cycle use is your priority, then match capacity and fit to your motor.
FFD Series for Value-Focused Battery Selection
The Full Force Series provides AGM deep cycle options at a cost-competitive price point. Its construction includes thick, high-purity lead plates and a sealed design that eliminates routine watering.
The FFD85-12, FFD105-12, and FFD115-12 match the corresponding DC models’ C20 capacities: 85Ah, 105Ah, and 115Ah. Compare FFD when balancing capacity and purchase cost. Equal Ah ratings do not make batteries identical; review construction and warranty terms with your dealer.
FT Series for Dual-Purpose Capability
The Full Throttle Series combines cranking performance with cycling capability. Its battery technology includes thin plate pure lead construction, compressed cells, and reinforced internal connections for demanding marine applications. Fullriver’s recommended trolling motor options include the FT840-24M, FT965-27, and FT1150-31.
The FT840-24M has a published C20 capacity of 75Ah, while the FT965-27 provides 100Ah. Fullriver also recommends the FT1150-31 for the Group 31 platform. A Fullriver dealer can help confirm model details and fitment for your boat. When selecting a dual-purpose battery, follow the motor manufacturer’s capacity and compatibility guidance. For a 24V or 36V trolling bank, avoid drawing engine-starting power from just one battery in the series.
Fullriver’s Best Batteries for Trolling Motors
Once you’ve chosen a series, use the table below to find its recommended model in your battery group. Check the individual product specifications before ordering, since dimensions and capacity can differ between series.
| Battery platform | DC Series | FFD / Full Force Series | FT / Full Throttle Series |
| Group 24 | DC85-12 | FFD85-12 | FT840-24M |
| Group 27 | DC105-12 | FFD105-12 | FT965-27 |
| Group 31 | DC115-12 | FFD115-12 | FT1150-31 |
Our marine battery selection covers starting and deep cycle applications. To find the right battery, check capacity, dimensions, and terminal placement against your motor requirements and battery tray.
Fullriver’s DC, FFD, and FT recommendations give you options across three common marine battery platforms.
Need help choosing between these models? Contact Fullriver with your motor model, voltage, battery compartment dimensions and typical fishing trip length. Our team can help you select a battery and compatible charging equipment.
Get More from Your Trolling Motor Battery
Once your battery bank is installed, charging and storage habits help protect its performance and service life. Recharge after use with a charger that meets the battery’s requirements, and allow the charge cycle to complete. Deep cycle capability does not mean you should routinely run the motor until it stops. Limiting repeated deep discharge can support a longer lifespan, so monitor how much capacity you use during each discharge cycle.
Secure batteries, inspect connections, and follow terminal torque specifications. Use matched batteries and compatible charging equipment for multi-battery banks. Check charge levels during storage. Fullriver’s installation and charging resources help keep your setup ready to deliver consistent power.
Trolling Motor Battery FAQs
Can a dual-purpose battery power a trolling motor?
Yes, when the motor manufacturer permits it and the battery meets its voltage, capacity, and discharge requirements. Fullriver includes FT Series models in its trolling motor recommendations. Check the specific motor manual because compatibility guidance varies by manufacturer.
Does a higher CCA rating mean longer trolling motor runtime?
No. A starting battery, also called a cranking battery, is rated for short bursts of power. Cold cranking amps measure that starting performance. For trolling motor use, compare capacity at the same discharge rate and consider the motor’s power draw. A high CCA figure alone does not tell you how long a battery will run your motor.
Can I replace a Group 24 battery with a Group 31?
Possibly, if the larger battery fits securely and meets the system’s electrical requirements. Check dimensions, weight, terminal placement, and cable clearance. For a multi-battery bank, follow guidance on matched batteries rather than changing only one to a different size.
How long will a trolling motor battery last on one charge?
Runtime depends on battery capacity, motor speed, operating conditions, and allowable discharge depth. Occasional repositioning uses less energy than continuous operation. Use the battery’s discharge data and the motor’s current draw to estimate runtime, then allow a reserve for the return trip.
