The four major types of deep-cycle marine batteries include:

1. Lead-Acid Flooded Batteries

These are the most common types of batteries used by many because they either came with the boat or they are the most affordable type of battery. They usually cost less than $100. Flooded Lead-Acid batteries, also called Wet-Cell batteries, typically last from 1-3 years, depending on how they are used and cared for.

2. Gel Batteries

A Gel Battery, also known as a Gelled Electrolyte Battery, is a rechargeable battery that uses a gelled electrolyte instead of the usual liquid electrolyte found in Wet-Cell batteries. Gel batteries are another branch of Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) or Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries just like AGM batteries. So they share many of the same features and advantages.

3. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries

AGM batteries are an improvement on Flooded Lead-Acid batteries. But when compared to Flooded Lead-Acid batteries, AGM batteries have many areas where they are superior and preferable to Flooded or Wet-Cell Lead-Acid batteries. While AGM batteries are usually more expensive than flooded batteries, in our opinion, the increased cost is a worthwhile investment because AGM batteries offer better performance, double lifespan, increased safety, and more.

4. Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries

The latest improvement in deep-cycle battery technology. Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries also referred to as LiFePO4 batteries or lithium deep cycle marine batteries, boast the longest battery lifespan of any marine or deep-cycle battery. They are the best battery for a trolling motor any boatsman, yachtsman, or angler could want. The only drawback is that they are also the most expensive battery type. That being said, lithium batteries have many features desirable to people who venture into the deep. LiFePO4 batteries offer several performance advantages such as a longer staying power without voltage drop, 100% depth of discharge, and faster charging times. On the other hand, the biggest disadvantage of Lithium batteries is that they are expensive. The good news is that the cost continues to drop as more and more manufacturers and people adopt the technology.

What is the Right Trolling Motor Battery

The right trolling motor battery should be:

●Able to provide sufficient to run your trolling motor for the length of time you are going to use it. So its Ah rating should be more than the trolling motor’s maximum current draw.

●Able to stand the test, turbulence, and challenges of being out on the water.

●Be safe and easy to use in confined spaces. This means no spills, refills, or gas releases.

●Light enough for the target vessel.

Taking these factors into account, the right trolling motor battery should have at least a 100Ah rating, and a Group 27 rating to get the best results.