Upgrade Your Trolling Motor: Why Tampa Anglers Choose 36V Lithium Batteries

trolling motor lithium battery

If you fish or boat around Tampa Bay, upgrading to a 36V lithium battery for your trolling motor is one of the smartest performance upgrades you can make. Compared to lead-acid or Ni-MH options, a lithium trolling motor battery delivers more power, lighter weight, faster charging, and drastically longer lifespan — all of which mean more time on the water and less time dealing with maintenance.

This guide covers how to choose the best 36V lithium battery, how lithium vs Ni-MH batteries compare, and where to buy and install marine lithium batteries locally in Tampa, Florida.


Why Upgrade to a 36V Lithium Battery for Your Trolling Motor

A 36V trolling motor battery system powers high-thrust motors for bass boats, bay boats, pontoons, and electric skiffs that need strong, consistent performance. Here’s why so many Tampa anglers are switching:

  • More runtime & faster charge cycles — A high-quality lithium 36V battery provides steady voltage and 2–3x longer use per charge.

  • Lightweight design — Lose up to 100 pounds compared to lead-acid batteries, improving speed and efficiency.

  • Longer lifespan — Most marine lithium batteries last 10+ years or 3,000+ cycles.

  • Smart charging — Pair your setup with a Victron Energy battery charger or smart lithium battery charger to charge safely and quickly.

Whether you run a Minn Kota, Lowrance, or Garmin Force motor, a 36V lithium trolling motor battery gives you maximum power with minimal maintenance.


36V vs 12V vs Ni-MH Batteries

36V Lithium Battery

Best for large trolling motors and multi-day tournaments. Typically configured as 3 x 12V cells in series or a single 36V pack. Look for BMS protection, 100 amp continuous output, and models in 100Ah or 50Ah sizes.

12V Lithium Battery

Perfect for kayaks, jon boats, and smaller craft. A 12V lithium battery or 12V kayak battery gives you lightweight, reliable power for electronics or smaller trolling motors.

Ni-MH / Nickel Batteries

When comparing Ni-MH vs Lithium, lithium wins in every category: higher energy density, lower weight, faster charging, and a much longer lifespan. Nickel batteries vs lithium setups are outdated for modern trolling motors.


What to Look For in a 36V Trolling Motor Battery

  1. Capacity (Ah) — Choose a 100Ah lithium battery for all-day power or a 50Ah if you prefer lighter weight.

  2. Amp rating — Match the continuous and peak discharge ratings to your trolling motor’s power draw.

  3. BMS & safety — Ensure your lithium ion battery has a built-in Battery Management System to prevent overcharging and overheating.

  4. Battery tray fit — Check that the battery dimensions fit your boat’s battery tray.

  5. Warranty & build quality — Opt for brands offering 5+ year warranties and marine-grade housing.

  6. Charging compatibility — Use a Victron monitor and a smart lithium battery charger or Victron Energy battery charger to ensure proper voltage regulation.


Best 36V Lithium Battery Setups

  • 36V 100Ah Marine Lithium Battery + Victron Charger
    Ideal for high-thrust motors and long tournament days. Provides maximum range and fastest recharge time.

  • 36V 50Ah Lightweight Lithium Pack + Smart Charger
    Perfect for anglers prioritizing weight savings, agility, and faster hole shots.

  • 12V Lithium Ion Battery 50Ah + Compact Charger
    Great for kayaks and smaller trolling setups needing a reliable 12V lithium battery.

All pair well with Victron smart chargers, lithium battery banks, and integrated Victron monitors for full system visibility.


Quick Buying Checklist

  • Verify the battery tray dimensions.

  • Choose 50Ah or 100Ah depending on desired runtime.

  • Confirm discharge rating matches motor specs.

  • Select a smart lithium battery charger for safety.

  • Register your warranty and monitor performance via Victron monitor or Bluetooth app.


Charging & Maintenance Tips

  • Always charge with a compatible lithium battery charger.

  • Monitor charging with a Victron Energy battery monitor to track voltage and capacity.

  • Avoid mixing old and new batteries or different chemistries in series.

  • Store between 40%–60% charge if unused for more than 30 days.

Following these steps protects your investment and ensures the highest performance from your 36V lithium trolling motor battery.


Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best trolling motor battery for a 36V setup?
A 36V lithium battery with at least 100Ah capacity, 100A continuous discharge, and integrated BMS is ideal for high-thrust trolling motors.

Can I use a 12V lithium charger for a 36V pack?
Only if you’re charging three 12V lithium batteries in series with a multi-bank charger designed for lithium. Otherwise, use a dedicated 36V smart lithium battery charger.

Are lithium batteries better than Ni-MH for trolling motors?
Yes. Lithium vs Ni-MH tests show lithium offers double the cycle life, higher energy density, and far less maintenance.


Final Thoughts

For Tampa anglers who rely on dependable trolling motor power, the 36V lithium battery stands unmatched. It’s lighter, lasts longer, and delivers the consistent thrust every serious fisherman needs. Whether you’re powering a bass boat, kayak, or electric outboard, investing in a marine lithium battery and smart lithium battery charger will redefine your time on the water.

Visit our Lithium Battery Power Tampa showroom to see the difference in person, or order your 36V lithium trolling motor battery online today for same-day pickup or shipping.

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