Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Help Trolling motor battery - lithium?

My marine battery finally crapped out after 8 years and I’m hoping for some feedback on folks who have made the switch to lithium. Need to power a 50# minnkota - lithium benefits have me intrigued but don’t know size, brand, etc. Any feedback would be appreciated thanks in advance. I’d like my days of lugging an 80# battery around to be history.

One of my WORST fishing memories with my father was when he said he could no longer carry his battery down to the boat. I think all little boys start out thinking their father is invincible. It was a little chilling to see that Father Time was starting to nip at the heels of my father since he couldn't lug an 80# battery any more!

My old deep cycles are still functional so I haven't yet looked at the lithium batteries. If we do get an expert to chime in, can I add a question to TJ's? What is the type of duty cycle that the lithium batteries are designed for? (Or are there already different designs for different applications?)

Before I built a pond, I was in a fishing club that frequently required members to bring their own batteries. Lugging that lead-acid monster around wasn't fun in the least, and I even got tendonitis twisting my shoulder to lift it out of the boat!

I then bought a MUCH lighter (though expensive) lithium-ion battery. It seemed to work pretty well, but needed it's own special charger. Also came with warnings about very bad things that might happen if not handled & charged correctly.

From what I read, the lithium-iron-phosphate battery might be the way to go now. Safer and longer lasting, though not quite as light as the lithium-ion. Still much less heavy than lead-acid. of course. Here's one source of info on LiFePO4 batteries: https://www.super-b.com/en/products

TJ, open an account on Texas Fishing Forum, and search Lithium Batteries under the "Bass Fishing" category. There are 5 pages of lithium battery info, and chargers from experienced users. Prices are dropping, and getting more affordable. Look at NOCO chargers(I have 3 of them), they have several options, and they're solid chargers.

I'm about $100 away from swapping out for lithium's myself.

Thanks for the feedback!

I fish a ton of kayak bass tournaments and 12v power is key to increase the range (e-motor), power lights, fish finders, etc. It's a massively growing sport and we all use lithium these days.

Several friends have either a minnkota or motorguide 55lb motor mounted to the bow. These have GPS and spotlock built so the power draw is not small. Most anglers have one of these two brands. (Amped Outdoors or Dakota Lithium) 100ah battery and it will last them 8-10hr day of fishing. They weigh just 32-35lbs.

I have a different motor setup but use Dakota Lithium 54ah to power my lights and electronics for the past 4 years. Super happy with them.

Thank you for the direction - HTN