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Electric Boat & Kayak Motors
Whether you call it a trolling motor or an electric outboard, adding an electric motor to your boat or kayak is one of the biggest advantages you can have on the water. It’s about quiet, precise control—letting you sneak up on wary fish, and make subtle adjustments without starting a noisy engine. This is a key to more effective fishing.
A Tackle Shop Guide to Watersnake Electric Motors
Choosing the right electric trolling motor can seem complex, with terms like 'thrust', 'deep-cycle batteries', and 'shaft length' to understand. The good news is that the core principles are simple. As a leading stockist for Watersnake, we've created this guide to break down what you really need to know to select the perfect motor for your boat or kayak.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"When a customer comes into the shop frustrated with spooking fish with their noisy outboard, the conversation often turns to the advantages of an electric motor. The real benefit of a Watersnake isn't just about power; it's about stealth and access. It's the ability to silently sneak along a mangrove edge or glide over the shallow upper reaches of the Minnamurra River, getting to spots your petrol motor simply can't reach without sending fish scattering.
Our consistent advice for most tinnies and kayaks is to pair a 44lb or 54lb thrust model with a good 100Ah deep-cycle battery. That setup provides a great balance of power for a full day's fishing. It’s that quiet control that fundamentally changes how you fish."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm) | 20+ Years experience selling Electric Boat Motors
Watersnake Motor Thrust Guide
Choosing the right thrust (power) is the most important decision. It's not just about boat size; it's about the total loaded weight of your vessel (boat, people, and gear) and the conditions you fish in. The guide below is an excellent starting point for standard conditions.
| Loaded Boat Weight | Boat Type | Recommended Thrust |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 150kg | Kayak | 18lb |
| Up to 200kg | Kayak | 24lb |
| Up to 300kg | Kayak / Dinghy / Tinny | 34lb |
| 300kg to 500kg | Kayak / Dinghy / Tinny | 44lb |
| 400kg to 650kg | All Vessel Types | 54lb |
| Up to 800kg | All Vessel Types | 65lb - 70lb |
Watersnake Motor Shaft Length Guide
The motor's propeller must be fully submerged to work correctly. A shaft that's too short will cause the prop to suck air (cavitate), while one that's too long can hit the bottom. With your boat in the water, measure the distance from the mounting surface to the water level to find the suggested shaft length from the guide below.
Pro-Tips for Your Electric Motor
- Conserve Your Battery Life: Your motor's power consumption increases dramatically at higher speeds. To get the most out of your battery, use the highest speed settings only when you're fighting strong wind or current. For general navigation, running your motor at a 50-70% power level will significantly extend your run time.
- End-of-Day Prop Check: Make it a habit to quickly inspect your propeller for tangled fishing line or weed when you're rinsing your motor. Fine braid, in particular, can work its way behind the prop and damage the motor over time, leading to water issues. This 10-second check can save you from a costly repair or replacement down the track.
- Rinse After Saltwater Use: The single most effective thing you can do to keep your motor pristine is to give the base and shaft a light rinse with fresh water after every trip in the salt.
Essential Spare Parts & Accessories
To keep you on the water, we stock a range of genuine Watersnake spare parts for sale. It's always a good idea to have a few key items in your boat, just in case.
- Spare Propellers: A damaged propeller is the most common issue. Having a spare on board can save a fishing trip.
- Spare Remotes & Foot Controls: For models that use them, having a backup remote or foot control offers peace of mind. Note that these are specific to certain models and are not universal.
- Circuit Breakers: A crucial safety item that protects your motor from electrical surges. We stock a range of circuit breakers to suit different motor sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat licence for an electric motor in Australia?
That's a critical question, as the rules vary significantly by state. Electric motors are generally treated the same as petrol outboards. The table below is a general guide.
| State/Territory | Licence Basis | Rule Threshold | Licence Needed for Watersnake? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW & SA | Speed | 10+ knots (18.5 km/h) | No (Unlikely to exceed 10 knots) |
| QLD, WA & TAS | Power | > 4.5kW (approx. 6hp) | No (Well below threshold) |
| Victoria | All Powered Vessels | Any Motor | Yes (Exemption for kayaks with motors up to 40lb thrust) |
| Northern Territory | N/A | None | No |
Disclaimer: This information is a general guide only and is subject to change. It is your responsibility to check with your local state maritime authority for the most current and specific regulations for your vessel and situation.
What's the difference between a lead-acid and a lithium deep-cycle battery?
This is a key decision. **Lead-acid or AGM batteries** are the traditional, more affordable option. They are heavy but reliable. **Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries** are the modern, premium choice. They are significantly lighter (often less than half the weight), can be discharged more deeply without damage, and have a much longer lifespan, but they come at a higher initial cost.
Are Watersnake electric motors suitable for saltwater?
Yes, all the Watersnake trolling motor models we sell are designed for saltwater use. They are built with corrosion-resistant materials to handle the harsh marine environment. This includes using either stainless steel or corrosion-proof composite materials for the main shaft and water-resistant, sealed electronics in the head unit to protect them from light spray and rain.
How do I mount a trolling motor to my kayak?
You have a few great options. Many anglers use a standard transom-mount motor with an aftermarket motor mount bracket if their kayak doesn't have a built-in transom. We also sell specific **kayak motor** models that come with a specialised side-mount bracket included, providing a simple, purpose-built solution.
What's the difference between a bow mount and a transom mount motor?
A transom mount motor attaches to the back of the boat and is controlled via a tiller handle. It's a simple, effective, and affordable option, perfect for general boat positioning and trolling. A bow mount motor attaches to the front of the boat and is typically controlled with a foot pedal or remote, offering superior, hands-free control for serious lure anglers who need to make precise casts to structure.
Do Watersnake electric motors come with a battery?
No, the motors we sell do not come with a battery included. A compatible 12-volt deep-cycle battery must be purchased separately. These are available from specialist battery retailers such as Battery World or similar stores that specialise in deep-cycle marine batteries.
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