Adding a trolling motor to a jet ski can transform it into a stealthy fishing platform or a precise maneuvering tool. But not all trolling motors are built for the unique demands of a personal watercraft. We researched specifications, industry standards, and hundreds of owner reviews to compare the top contenders. Our evaluation focuses on saltwater corrosion resistance, mounting compatibility, thrust-to-weight ratio, and battery efficiency. Here are the seven best trolling motors for jet skis, each with real strengths and honest limitations.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Minn Kota Riptide Transom 55 Best Overall for Saltwater Jet Skis 55 lbs thrust, 36" shaft, 12V, digital Maximizer |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Best Value for Freshwater Jet Skis 55 lbs thrust, 36" shaft, 12V, LED battery indicator |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MotorGuide Xi5 55 Best for GPS Integration 55 lbs thrust, 54" shaft, 12V, PinPoint GPS |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Haswing Cayman 55 Best Lightweight Option 55 lbs thrust, 30" shaft, 12V, 5-speed forward/reverse |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Minn Kota Endura C2 55 Best Budget Freshwater Motor 55 lbs thrust, 36" shaft, 12V, 5 forward speeds |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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WaterSnake WS-T55 Best for Compact Jet Skis 55 lbs thrust, 24" short shaft, 12V, 5 speeds |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rhodan 60 HD Premium Heavy-Duty Choice 60 lbs thrust, 54" shaft, 24V, HD GPS with Spot-Lock |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Minn Kota Riptide Transom 55: Best Overall for Saltwater Jet Skis
The Minn Kota Riptide Transom 55 is our top pick for jet ski owners who fish in saltwater. Its sealed motor and composite shaft resist corrosion far better than freshwater models. In owner feedback, users consistently report years of trouble-free service even with regular saltwater exposure. The digital Maximizer is a standout feature, intelligently managing power to extend run time on a single battery charge. With 55 pounds of thrust, it handles moderate currents and wind with ease.
However, this motor is not the lightest option at 35 pounds, which can affect handling on smaller jet skis. It also requires a separate battery and mounting bracket. If you need a lighter setup for a compact jet ski or primarily fish in freshwater, consider the Newport Vessels model below. But for saltwater durability and overall performance, the Riptide is hard to beat.
- Saltwater-compatible with sealed motor and stainless steel shaft.
- Digital Maximizer extends battery life up to 5x vs. standard motors.
- Transom mount fits most jet ski brackets with simple DIY installation.
Pros: Excellent corrosion resistance for ocean use.; Quiet and efficient at low speeds.
Cons: Heavier than some competitors at 35 lbs.
2. Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb: Best Value for Freshwater Jet Skis
The Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb offers impressive features at a competitive price point, making it our best value pick for freshwater jet ski fishing. The built-in LED battery indicator is a practical touch, letting you monitor charge at a glance. We compared its thrust and battery efficiency against similarly priced models, and it holds its own. Owner reviews highlight the smooth variable speed control and quiet operation.
However, this motor is not designed for prolonged saltwater exposure. The composite shaft and standard seals require thorough freshwater rinsing after each saltwater trip. If you fish exclusively in saltwater, invest in the Minn Kota Riptide. For freshwater anglers on a budget, the NV-Series delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- LED battery indicator on the control head prevents unexpected power loss.
- Telescoping handle and tilt adjustment for comfortable operation.
- Quiet brushless motor with composite shaft for freshwater use.
Pros: Great value for the features offered.; Easy to mount and adjust on most jet ski brackets.
Cons: Not fully saltwater-rated; rinse required after each use.
3. MotorGuide Xi5 55: Best for GPS Integration
The MotorGuide Xi5 55 is the go-to choice for jet ski anglers who want GPS functionality. Its PinPoint GPS allows you to anchor virtually or follow a pre-set route, which is invaluable when fishing structure or drifting. We researched user reports and found the satellite lock is fast and reliable. The wireless foot pedal gives you hands-free control, a major advantage when fighting a fish.
That said, the Xi5 is pricey and the GPS features require a separate receiver and some configuration. If you don’t need GPS, you can save money with a simpler model. Also, some users reported difficulty with the initial mounting on non-standard jet ski brackets. It’s best for tech-savvy anglers who fish in open water and want advanced positioning.
- PinPoint GPS with anchor lock and route recall for precise positioning.
- Wireless foot pedal and remote control included.
- Saltwater-ready with stainless steel shaft and sealed housing.
Pros: GPS features are excellent for holding position in current.; Strong build quality with good corrosion protection.
Cons: Higher price and complex setup for novice users.
4. Haswing Cayman 55: Best Lightweight Option
The Haswing Cayman 55 is ideal for jet skis where weight is a primary concern. At just 17 pounds, it’s one of the lightest 55-pound thrust motors available, making it easy to mount and remove. We compared its shaft length to typical jet ski transom heights, and the 30-inch version works well for calm freshwater lakes. Owner feedback praises its simplicity and value.
However, the short shaft can cause ventilation in choppy conditions, and the motor lacks the corrosion protection needed for regular saltwater use. It’s best suited for small jet skis used in protected freshwater areas. If you often fish in windy or rough conditions, look for a longer shaft and higher thrust.
- Weighs only 17 lbs, reducing strain on jet ski handling.
- Compact 30-inch shaft fits smaller jet skis without dragging.
- 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds for fine control.
Pros: Very lightweight and easy to stow.; Affordable price point.
Cons: Short shaft may cavitate in rough water.; Less durable in saltwater; not fully sealed.
5. Minn Kota Endura C2 55: Best Budget Freshwater Motor
The Minn Kota Endura C2 55 is a classic freshwater trolling motor that offers reliable performance at a low cost. It’s a simple, no-nonsense unit with five forward speeds and a composite shaft. For jet ski owners on a tight budget who fish in calm freshwater, it gets the job done. We researched owner reviews and found many have used it for years with proper maintenance.
But this motor lacks reverse, which can be inconvenient when maneuvering in tight spots. It also has no battery gauge, so you must monitor power separately. Saltwater use will quickly degrade the unprotected components. If you need reverse or plan to fish in saltwater, skip this model. It’s strictly for budget-conscious freshwater anglers.
- Proven reliability with simple 5-speed forward control.
- Composite shaft and lightweight design at 27 lbs.
- Mounting bracket included, fits many jet ski transoms.
Pros: Very affordable and widely available.; Easy to operate with no-frills controls.
Cons: No reverse or battery indicator.; Not saltwater-rated; limited corrosion resistance.
6. WaterSnake WS-T55: Best for Compact Jet Skis
The WaterSnake WS-T55 is designed specifically for small boats and jet skis with limited space. Its 24-inch short shaft avoids hitting the hull or cavitating on low-profile transoms. We compared its dimensions to popular jet ski models and found it fits well on units like the Yamaha EX or Sea-Doo Spark. Owner feedback highlights its ease of use and low price.
However, the short shaft makes it unsuitable for rough water or when the jet ski is heavily loaded. The build quality is not on par with premium brands, and some users reported issues after a season of use. If you have a larger jet ski or fish in exposed waters, choose a longer shaft. But for tiny PWCs on calm lakes, this is a practical budget pick.
- Ultra-short 24-inch shaft ideal for small jet skis.
- Lightweight at 15 lbs, easy to handle and store.
- 5 forward and 2 reverse speeds for basic control.
Pros: Perfect for tight transom clearance on compact PWCs.; Very affordable and simple to install.
Cons: Short shaft limits use in waves or strong current.; Lower build quality; concerns about long-term durability.
7. Rhodan 60 HD: Premium Heavy-Duty Choice
The Rhodan 60 HD is a premium trolling motor that delivers outstanding performance for serious jet ski anglers. With 60 pounds of thrust and a 24V system, it powers through strong currents and wind. The HD GPS Spot-Lock is among the most accurate on the market, holding your position even in rough conditions. We researched industry reviews and found it consistently praised for build quality and reliability.
However, the 24V requirement means you need two batteries or a heavy 24V battery, which adds significant weight and cost. The price is the highest in this guide, making it inaccessible for budget buyers. If you fish in challenging conditions and demand the best, the Rhodan is worth the investment. For occasional freshwater use, a simpler 12V motor will suffice.
- 60 lbs thrust for powerful control in wind and current.
- HD GPS with Spot-Lock holds position within inches.
- Marine-grade components with stainless steel shaft and sealed electronics.
Pros: Exceptional holding power and GPS accuracy.; Built to last with top-tier corrosion resistance.
Cons: Requires 24V battery system, adding weight and cost.; Very expensive; overkill for most casual users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mount any trolling motor on a jet ski?
Most trolling motors can be mounted on a jet ski using a universal transom bracket or a custom mounting plate. However, you must ensure the shaft length is appropriate for your jet ski’s transom height. A shaft that is too short may cavitate, while one too long can hit the water when tilted. We recommend measuring your transom height and consulting the motor’s specifications.
What size trolling motor thrust do I need for a jet ski?
For a typical jet ski, 40 to 55 pounds of thrust is sufficient for calm freshwater. If you fish in saltwater, strong currents, or windy conditions, consider 55 to 60 pounds. Higher thrust also helps if you carry heavy gear or a passenger. Thrust is more important than speed; you want enough power to maintain control at low speeds.
Do I need a special battery for a trolling motor on a jet ski?
Yes, trolling motors require a deep-cycle marine battery, not a starting battery. Deep-cycle batteries provide steady power over long periods. For 12V motors, a single Group 27 or 31 battery is common. For 24V motors, you need two 12V batteries wired in series or a single 24V battery. Always use a waterproof battery box and secure it properly on the jet ski.
Can I use a trolling motor in saltwater on my jet ski?
You can, but you need a saltwater-rated motor with corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel shafts, sealed housings, and sacrificial anodes. Even then, rinse the motor thoroughly with fresh water after each use. Motors not rated for saltwater will corrode quickly. Our top pick, the Minn Kota Riptide, is designed for saltwater.
How do I control speed and direction with a trolling motor on a jet ski?
Most trolling motors have a tiller handle with a twist-grip or lever for variable speed control. Some models offer a foot pedal or wireless remote for hands-free operation. Direction is controlled by rotating the motor head. GPS models can hold a heading or anchor position automatically. Choose based on your preference for manual vs. automated control.
Our Verdict
After comparing specifications, durability, and real-world owner feedback, the Minn Kota Riptide Transom 55 stands out as the best all-around trolling motor for jet skis, especially in saltwater. For budget-conscious freshwater anglers, the Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb offers the best value without sacrificing essential features.
