Trolling motors are known for instantaneous, adjustable, and quiet power that offers big advantages in both maneuverability and convenience to fishermen. For the best performance from these motors, they should be connected to one or more batteries that are used exclusively for powering the motor. Trolling motors generally require 12-volt, 24-volt, or 36-volt power, and any boat owner can hook one up.
Items you will need
Wrench set
Jumper wires (6-gauge)
Circuit breakers (40-amp and 50-amp)
Make sure that all power switches associated with the system are in the "off" position.
Connect the 12-volt trolling motors to a single 12-volt battery by simply fastening the black negative lead from the motor to the negative battery terminal, and the red positive lead from the trolling motor to the positive battery terminal. Include a 50-amp circuit breaker on the positive connection.
Connect the 24-volt trolling motors to two 12-volt batteries by fastening the black negative lead from the trolling motor to the negative battery terminal of one of the batteries, and the red positive lead from the trolling motor to the positive battery terminal of the other battery. Include a 40-amp circuit breaker on this positive connection. Connect a jumper wire between the positive terminal of the first battery and the negative terminal of the second battery.
Connect 36-volt motors to three 12-volt batteries that are connected in series. Fasten the black negative lead from the trolling motor to the negative battery terminal of the first of the three batteries, and the red positive lead from the trolling motor to the positive battery terminal of the third battery. Include a 40-amp circuit breaker on this positive connection. Connect two jumper wires in this system, from the positive terminal of the first battery to the negative terminal of the second battery, and from the positive terminal of the second battery to the negative terminal of the third battery.