Boat Trolling Motor Market
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The global boat trolling motor market size was valued at USD 1.25 billion in 2024 and is estimated to register a CAGR of 2.9% between 2025 and 2034. Recreational fishing and boating are activities that are practiced by many people all over the world. These activities are quite enjoyable, and they also create a deep connection with nature. As per NMMA, the US recreational boating market for the year 2023 stands at $170 billion with three-quarters of the US based boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers participating in that market.
Fishing has given rise to interest in the manufacture of a trolling motor which has gained popularity with anglers who wish to have stealth and precision while moving the boat. Since trolling motors are able to hold the boat stationary, they are far easier to position than most traditional engines as they help the angler in his efforts to catch fish. The onboard wireless control systems and GPS positioning in these units have also enhanced their utility and ensured the user spends less time steering and more time fishing. Trolling motors have become increasingly important to recreational fishing because they are beneficial for both novice and seasoned anglers.
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2024 |
| Boat Trolling Motor Market size in 2024: | USD 1.25 Billion |
| Forecast Period: | 2025 - 2034 |
| Forecast Period 2023 - 2032 CAGR: | 2.9 |
| 2023 Value Projection: | USD 1.64 Billion |
| Historical Data for: | 2021 - 2024 |
| No of Pages: | 175 |
| Tables, Charts & Figures: | 300 |
| Segments Covered: | Thrust Level, Mounting, Control Mechanism, Voltage, Application |
| Growth Drivers: |
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| Pitfalls Challenges: |
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The focus on reducing the carbon footprint has led to booming sales of electric trolling motors in the boating market. They do not only lower noise levels but also increase the efficiency of energy usage while preventing the emission of dangerous pollutants. Permits from different countries pursue and implement more strict rules to protect water bodies and enhance the adoption of electric trolling motors to boats.
Electric trolling motors are now becoming attractive in part because of their use of sustainable energy sources like solar-charging systems. This feature is appealing to boaters and anglers who want eco-friendly solutions to their recreational needs. Further, new technologies such as brushless motors and smart power management systems have improved the efficiency and robustness of electric trolling motors. Such improvements are responsive to the demands of today’s anglers and casual boaters growing the electric motors market.
Moreover, the high initial investment in trolling motors remains a barrier to entry to wider markets, especially in cost-sensitive ones. For instance, premium models with GPS anchoring, autopilot systems, and brushless motors are above USD 2,500 inclusive of shipping and for added aftermarket modification features. This tendency places them out of the price range of the average recreational angler or other non-professional clients, who would otherwise use them.
On the upside however, the long-term operating costs of trolling motors which involve low fuel and maintenance cost are very attractive, but this benefit can only be realized after paying hefty installation costs. In addition, the large price gap between the traditional combustion engines and modern trolling motors limits the access to these modern motors especially in developing countries where price remains a primary inhibiting factor.
Based on thrust level, the market is divided into below 55 lbs, 55 lbs to 100 lbs and above 100 lbs. In 2024, the 55 lbs to 100 lbs segment held a boat trolling motor market share of over 45% and is expected to cross USD 780 million by 2034. This thrust range is perfect for small to medium size vessels like fishing boats, pontoons and kayaks, which are the most commonly used boats for recreational fishing.
Popular motor types in this power range are capable of moving a wide variety of watercraft in all types of recreational areas, which include lakes and slow moving river currents, while providing a reasonable level of quiet operation. Furthermore, it is a good compromise in the quality-price ratio, which attracts great interest both from novice and professional fishermen. Moreover, this thrust level also has advantages in the application of cutting-edge technologies such as GIS positioning and wireless controls, for those users who are looking for simplicity and effectiveness.
Based on mounting, the boat trolling motor market is categorized into bow mount, transom mount, and engine mount. The bow mount segment held a market share of 64.8% in 2024. Bow mounted trolling motors are more advanced than other models of motors available in the market because they take the lead when it comes to maneuverability and assist in enhanced control during fishing activities.
The position of these motors moves the boat forward instead of pushing it, making it easier to turn the bow and navigate in tight areas. This orientation is ideal for fishermen who want to remain stable or make small changes while fishing. The bow mounted motors are also widely used during competitive fishing because of the GPS, foot pedals, wire-less remote controls and GPS based anchorage systems which come integrated with the motors.
North America dominated the global boat trolling motor market with a major share of over 35% in 2024 and U.S. leads the market in the region. The U.S. leads the boat trolling motor industry in North America as a result of its highly developed recreational fishing industry and vigorous boating market. Due to the presence of major trolling motor manufacturers and suppliers, along with the high levels of adoption of sophisticated fishing equipment, the market remains vibrant.
The vastness of the country's waterways evokes the necessity for trolling motors, without which the boats cannot operate in the various form of fishing activities. Besides, the growing finance by the government on promotion of outdoor activities enhance the growth of the market in the U.S.
In Europe, Germany, France, and Nordic countries have been drivers of growth in the boat trolling motor market due to their increased interest in recreational fishing. Europe has fuelled the growth of the markets for electric trolling motors with the introduction of strict environmental laws to control pollution and protect aquatic life. There has been a growing favourable tendency in the preference of European consumers on available technology, making the use of cutting edge eco-friendly electric trolling motors that have gps and energy saving devices desirable.
Although Asia and the Pacific are still growing their recreational fishing culture as a whole, these two areas are currently recording growth in the boat trolling motor market due to the increase in income and interest in outdoor activities. Australian and New Zealand waters have always been hot spots for fishing due to their rich biodiversity and are expected to make substantial contributions. Furthermore, growing environmental awareness and policy measures promoting sustainable boating are speeding the transition to electric trolling motors.
Minn Kota, MotorGuide, Garmin, Lowrance, Power-Pole, Newport Vessels, and Mercury Marine hold a significant market share of over 33% in the boat trolling motor industry. Garmin, a permanent fixture in the competitive boating market thanks to its incessant invention and technological integration, appears to have an estimated sizeable segment of the boats trolling motor market. Its Garmin Force trolling motors are known for excellent performance, quiet operation and energy efficient, characteristics that appeal to professional and hobby anglers. With years and years of experience working with GPS and sonar technologies, Garmin has diversified these features into their trolling motors allowing easier navigation, fish finding and control.
Mercury Marine is a close competitor of the MotorGuide trolling motors product line and has built-in trolling motor expertise with reliable marine propulsion experience and a diverse portfolio. The broad spectrum is reflected on the MotorGuide trolling motors which withstand various preferences, durability and performance. With a diverse range of new and innovative products, from wireless systems to digital controls and advanced anchoring, Mercury Marine has grown to be competitive in this fast-changing market.
Major players operating in the boat trolling motor industry include:
The boat trolling motor market is characterized by a local and international mix of competition with appropriate local differentiation enabling the builders to supply to the needs of recreational fishing, water sports and small boats. Global competitors augment their acquisitions through other advanced trolling motors features such as wireless control and GPS integration. Their performance is upheld through constant innovation, multi fit durability and adaptability to several boat types ensuring global presence in markets known for active recreational boating activities.
Also, local suppliers take advantage of this knowledge to provide low-cost customized services to small fishers. However, with the increasing demand for high-performance, low inertia, less power-consuming electric engines, and the integration of smart technologies, these local suppliers have to innovate or become partners with big international suppliers. Such a situation can be indicative of a consolidation wave of mergers and acquisitions, as local companies are looking forward to closing technology gaps and strengthening their competitiveness against global providers.
Those changes are anticipated to have the most significant impact on the competitive environment within the boat trolling motors market, where advancements are encouraged, and modern trolling motors gain a wider market reach.
Market, By Thrust Level
Market, By Mounting
Market, By Control Mechanism
Market, By Voltage
Market, By Application
The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:
The key players in the industry include Garmin, Haswing, Lowrance, Mercury Marine, Minn Kota, MotorGuide, Newport Vessels, Power-Pole, Rhino, and Torqeedo.
The market size of boat trolling motor reached USD 1.25 billion in 2024 and is set to grow at a 2.9% CAGR from 2025 to 2034, led by the increasing popularity of recreational fishing.
The North America market held 35% of the revenue share in 2024, supported by a strong recreational fishing culture and widespread adoption of advanced fishing equipment.
The bow mount segment accounted for 64.8% of the market share in 2024 due to its superior maneuverability and precise control, making it ideal for fishing activities.