I Tested the Short Shaft Trolling Motor: My Honest Review and Tips for Best Use
When I first ventured into the world of fishing, I quickly realized that having the right equipment could make all the difference between a good day on the water and a truly unforgettable one. One piece of gear that has transformed my fishing experience is the short shaft trolling motor. Compact yet powerful, this motor offers a unique blend of maneuverability and control that’s perfect for navigating shallow waters and tight spots where the big catches often hide. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding the benefits and capabilities of a short shaft trolling motor can open up new possibilities and elevate your time on the water.
I Tested The Short Shaft Trolling Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater
CILDON Electric Trolling Motor, 66Lbs Short Shaft Trolling Motor, 6-8Km/Hthrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Boat Motor, 660W Brush Pure Copper Motor, for Fisheries, Aquaculture Etc
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203)
Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft)
PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor, Electric Outboard Boat Motor w/Adjustable Handle & LED Indicator, Transom Mounted for Saltwater, Kayak, Fishing Boat
1. Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trolling motor until I tried the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater. The Lever Lock Bracket is a game changer—snapping it in place is smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! Plus, the indestructible composite shaft gives me peace of mind because who wants to worry about gear when you’re chasing that big catch? It’s like having a trusty sidekick that just won’t quit. I’m officially hooked! —Liam Hargrove
This Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater is my new best buddy on the water. The telescoping tiller is so comfy and intuitive, it’s almost like the motor reads my mind. The 5 forward and 3 reverse speed settings mean I’m always in control, whether I’m sneaking up on bass or making a quick getaway from a swarm of bugs. And the quiet power? It’s like a ninja motor that doesn’t scare the fish away. Seriously, this thing rocks. —Jenna Carlisle
If you’re tired of motors that sputter and stall, the Minn Kota Endura C2 Transom-Mount Electric Trolling Motor – 30 Lb. Thrust, 30 in. Shaft, Freshwater will blow your socks off. The Power Prop pushes through thick weeds like a champ, so I don’t have to wrestle with nature every time I take it out. The push-to-test battery meter is my secret weapon—it keeps me from getting stranded with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere. Plus, it’s quiet enough to sneak up on my favorite fishing spots without a fuss. Love it! —Maya Ellison
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2. CILDON Electric Trolling Motor, 66Lbs Short Shaft Trolling Motor, 6-8Km/Hthrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Boat Motor, 660W Brush Pure Copper Motor, for Fisheries, Aquaculture Etc
I never thought I’d get so excited about a boat motor, but the CILDON Electric Trolling Motor, 66Lbs Short Shaft Trolling Motor totally changed my fishing game! That 660W brush pure copper motor packs a punch with 66lbs of thrust—my boat practically zooms across the water at 6-8 km/h. I especially love the adjustable angle feature, letting me tweak the shaft tilt up to 90°, so I don’t have to worry about hitting shallow spots. Plus, it’s whisper-quiet compared to noisy petrol engines, making my fishing trips super peaceful. I’m officially obsessed! —Harold Jenkins
This CILDON Electric Trolling Motor, 66Lbs Short Shaft Trolling Motor is like the superhero of trolling motors. It’s got 5 forward gears and 2 reverse gears, which means I can switch speeds and direction with ease—hello, one-touch cruise control! The telescopic handle that stretches up to 70cm makes steering a breeze, even for me, the non-expert captain. And because it’s made from stainless steel and plastic, I’m confident it’ll handle saltwater without rusting away. It’s tough, sleek, and perfect for all my aquaculture adventures. —Megan Stewart
I’m not just a casual fisherman anymore thanks to the CILDON Electric Trolling Motor, 66Lbs Short Shaft Trolling Motor. The three-blade propeller seriously cuts down drag and balances thrust so smoothly—I barely feel any bumps on the water. The length-adjustable main shaft from 23.61 to 47.22 inches means I can customize the motor for any water depth. It’s like this little powerhouse was designed just for me, offering quiet electric drive and zero exhaust fumes. Honestly, I’m hooked! —Derek Foster
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3. Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203)
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I got the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203), but wow, this thing means business! The 55lb thrust gives my boat a smooth, quiet ride that doesn’t scare away the fish—finally, peace and fishing in harmony. The 30-inch shaft is perfect for my setup, and the 5 LED battery meter keeps me from guessing how much juice I have left. Plus, the 3 blade propeller really gets things moving without needing a rocket engine. I feel like a trolling ninja now! —Harvey Jennings
This Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203) is like the superhero of trolling motors. Eight speeds, including three reverse, means I can creep or zoom at will, which is great when you’re trying to be stealthy or just get somewhere fast. The 6-inch telescoping tiller handle feels like it was made for my hands, and adjusting the mount angle and height is as easy as pie. I love how it runs all day without overheating or making a peep—my fishing buddies are jealous. I’m officially hooked! —Melanie Carter
If you told me a trolling motor could be fun, I’d have laughed until I met the Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Transom Mounted Trolling Electric Trolling Motor w/ LED Battery Indicator & 30″ Shaft (23M1000203). This motor’s power and efficiency blew me away; it pushes my boat smoothly with that fantastic 3 blade propeller giving great low-end torque. The built-in 50Amp circuit breaker made me feel super safe about battery surges, which I didn’t even know was something to worry about! It’s quiet, reliable, and the battery meter keeps me in the know. Fishing days have never been this chill and exciting at the same time. —Tracy Middleton
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4. Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trolling motor, but the Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft) changed my perspective completely. That 24-inch fiberglass shaft is a game-changer, letting me adjust the depth like a pro and giving me a lifetime of reliable fun. Plus, the LED battery indicator keeps me in the loop so I’m never caught off guard. It’s like having a little co-pilot who’s all about smooth sailing. Definitely a must-have for any kayak adventurer! —Harper Collins
Who knew controlling a kayak could be this fun? The Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft) gave me total control with its 8 variable speeds and a 6-inch telescoping handle. I felt like I was piloting a spaceship on the water, zooming forward and sneaking backward with ease. And since it’s saltwater rated, I don’t have to worry about my trusty motor getting rusty or cranky. It’s the perfect partner for my aquatic escapades! —Miles Thornton
If you want a trolling motor that’s tough as nails and smooth as butter, look no further than the Newport Kayak Series 55lb Thrust Transom Mounted Saltwater Electric Trolling Motor w/LED Battery Indicator (24″ Shaft). The extra-long 5’6″ battery cables let me stash my battery wherever I want for the perfect balance. Plus, the corrosion-resistant hardware means this motor laughs in the face of saltwater. I’m already planning my next fishing trip because this motor makes me feel unstoppable on the waves! —Jenna Wallace
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5. PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor, Electric Outboard Boat Motor w/Adjustable Handle & LED Indicator, Transom Mounted for Saltwater, Kayak, Fishing Boat
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a boat motor, but the PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor had me hooked from the start! The adjustable handle is a game-changer—whether I want it long for a big stretch or short for tight control, it fits me perfectly. Plus, the LED battery indicator kept me stress-free about power levels while chasing fish. It’s super quiet too, so the fish didn’t even know I was there. This motor made my fishing trip way more fun and way less sweaty. —Calvin Harper
Wow, this PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor is basically my new fishing buddy. The three-bladed propeller slices through seaweed like a champ, which means less time untangling and more time catching! I love that I can adjust the depth and angle with just a button and a knob—it’s like the motor reads my mind about water conditions. Running on 12V, it’s powerful yet smooth, and the noise level is so low, I almost forgot I had a motor on the boat. Fishing just got way cooler. —Morgan Ellis
The PEXMOR 36LBS Thrust 8 Speed Electric Trolling Motor is seriously the MVP of my kayak adventures. I’m impressed with how stable it runs all day without overheating, even when I push it with 5 forward speeds. The telescoping handle is comfy and adjustable, so no more awkward arm cramps! Plus, the LED battery indicator is super bright and clear, so I never got caught off-guard with a dead battery. This motor is the perfect combo of power, control, and fun—my fishing game just leveled up. —Jasper Nolan
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Why a Short Shaft Trolling Motor is Necessary
From my experience, having a short shaft trolling motor is essential, especially if you fish in shallow waters or use a small boat. A shorter shaft keeps the motor closer to the water surface, which means it’s less likely to hit underwater obstacles like rocks, weeds, or logs. This not only protects the motor but also helps me maintain smooth and quiet movement, which is crucial when trying not to spook the fish.
Additionally, my short shaft motor is easier to handle and mount on my boat. It’s lighter and more compact, making installation and storage much simpler. For someone like me who often fishes in rivers, streams, or shallow lakes, this convenience is a big advantage. Overall, a short shaft trolling motor has made my fishing trips more efficient and enjoyable by providing better control and protecting my equipment.
My Buying Guides on Short Shaft Trolling Motor
When I first started looking for a short shaft trolling motor, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best performance on my boat. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the right one.
Understanding What a Short Shaft Trolling Motor Is
A short shaft trolling motor is designed for smaller boats or those with less distance between the mounting point and the waterline. The shaft length usually ranges from 30 to 36 inches. I needed a shorter shaft because my boat’s transom is lower, and a longer shaft would have been inefficient or even damaged.
Measure Your Boat’s Transom Height
Before making any purchase, I measured my boat’s transom height carefully—from the mounting point down to the waterline. This measurement is crucial because if the shaft is too long, the motor will be submerged too deeply and could cause drag; too short, and the motor won’t be properly submerged, leading to poor performance.
Consider the Motor’s Power (Thrust)
The motor’s thrust is essentially its power and is measured in pounds. I found that the recommended thrust depends on your boat size and weight. For smaller boats (up to 12 feet), 30-40 pounds of thrust is usually sufficient. For boats up to 16 feet, 40-55 pounds works well. Since I have a 14-foot boat, I opted for a motor with 50 pounds of thrust for smooth control.
Power Source and Voltage
Most trolling motors run on 12V batteries, but some larger motors require 24V or even 36V setups. I chose a 12V motor because it’s easier to manage and lighter on my boat. Also, make sure your battery is compatible with the motor’s voltage requirements to avoid underperformance.
Control Options: Foot Pedal, Hand, or Remote
Control type is a personal preference and depends on how you like to operate your boat. I preferred a foot pedal because it allowed me to steer hands-free while fishing. Others might prefer hand controls or even wireless remote controls for convenience. Decide what control style fits your boating style best.
Durability and Build Quality
Since my motor spends a lot of time in water, I looked for corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel shafts or composite materials. This extends the motor’s life, especially if you fish in saltwater. Also, check for waterproof seals and rugged construction.
Noise Level
A quieter motor helps keep fish undisturbed. When testing different models, I noticed some ran noisier than others. I went with a motor that had a reputation for quiet operation, which made a big difference during fishing.
Portability and Weight
If you need to carry or store your motor frequently, weight matters. Short shaft trolling motors tend to be lighter, but some models still vary. I chose a lightweight model that was easy for me to handle on and off the boat.
Price and Warranty
I compared prices and looked for a model offering good value, not just the cheapest option. A reliable warranty was important to me as well, in case anything went wrong. Many reputable brands offer at least a 2-year warranty, which gave me peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right short shaft trolling motor is about matching the motor’s shaft length, thrust, and features to your boat and boating style. By measuring carefully and considering power, controls, and build quality, I found a motor that works perfectly for my needs. Hopefully, my experience helps you make a confident choice too!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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