Best Foot Pedals for Trolling Motors: Buyer’s Guide and Top Picks
Need hands-free, precise control on the water? This guide highlights the best foot pedals for trolling motors that fit common bow-mount models. Each option is chosen for reliability, compatibility, and ease of use. Best for serious anglers, saltwater or freshwater boats, and anyone who wants smoother, fatigue-free steering and speed control.
Summary of selected products:
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Pirjeco Foot Pedal | Minn Kota Universal Fit | Hands-free control and long reach | IP65 waterproof plug is adequate for most conditions |
| Haoguo Trolling Motor Foot Control | 12V-24V manual motors | Anti-sticking, ergonomic pedal | Sturdiness varies by usage |
| Minn Kota PD V2 Corded Foot Pedal | PowerDrive V2 and compatible motors | Classic dual steering with control knob | Standard 18′ cable; longer reach may help on larger boats |
| Minn Kota Ulterra/Riptide Foot Pedal | UlTerra and Riptide lines | Dual-mode with Spot-Lock and auto features | Higher feature set means more to learn |
| Garmin Foot Pedal For Force | Force wireless trolling motor | Wireless control with cable-like feel | Requires compatible Force system |
To help you compare quickly, the table below includes quick notes on use-case fit and any notable considerations. If you fish in saltwater or endure long hours, prioritizing ergonomic design and water sealing is wise. For boats with PowerDrive or Ulterra systems, matching the pedal to your specific trolling motor line improves performance and compatibility.
Pirjeco Foot Pedal For Minn Kota V2
Best for anglers using Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 or similar 12V/24V systems. This pedal includes an 18-foot marine-grade cable with an IP65 waterproof plug, enabling flexible deck movement without water intrusion. The ergonomic black footrest features a non-slip surface and a 15° tilt to reduce fatigue during long sessions. The 50A DC rating supports stable power for both fresh and saltwater use. Choose this if you want a rugged, universally compatible pedal with a long cable for larger boats. Caution: Ensure your motor’s manual or automatic controls align with the V2 compatibility for full feature use.
Haoguo Trolling Motor Foot Control Switch
Best for hands-free control with a focus on quick starts and stops. This pedal supports 12V–24V manual trolling motors and handles up to 50A for strong power and smooth operation. Its 15° angled, non-slip surface is designed to reduce foot fatigue. Choose this if you value instant, stick-free operation and a comfortable, ergonomic design. Limitation: Some users may prefer additional steering options like heel-toe or dedicated direction buttons depending on their boat layout.
Johnson Outdoors MinnKota PD V2 Corded Pedal
Best for traditional steering with a familiar knob and side-to-side pedal. This corded pedal offers an 18′ cable and an IP-68 waterproof plug for dependable performance. It supports both momentary and constant on operation along with a precision speed control knob. Choose this if you rely on a classic control layout and need robust waterproofing. Caution: It may feel less modern than dual-mode pedals on more advanced trolling motors.
Minn Kota Foot Pedal For Terrova & Riptide Terrova
Best for Terrova and Riptide Terrova systems with dual steering options and integrated Spot-Lock activation. The pedal includes an 18-foot cable and a waterproof connector plug, offering both heel/toe pedal action and left/right steering buttons. Choose this if you want flexible steering and automatic features like Spot-Lock. Limitation: The dual-option layout may require some adjustment for users accustomed to single-mode pedals.
Minn Kota Foot Pedal For Ulterra & Riptide Ulterra
Best for advanced trolling motors with dual-mode operation for AutoStow/Deploy, Power Trim, and precise speed and steering control. The low-profile, waterproof design supports heel/toe usage and left/right steering, with a Spot-Lock ON/OFF LED indicator for GPS positioning feedback. Choose this if your motor supports AutoPilot and you want integrated navigation features. Caution: More features mean a steeper learning curve for new users.
Minn Kota Foot Pedal For Riptide Instinct & Ulterra Quest
Best for dual-mode operation with Spot-Lock and Network Control features. This pedal includes a One-Boat Network programmable button with LED indicators to show status. It is designed for versatile control across newer Minn Kota models. Choose this if you want network-enabled control and integrated GPS features. Caution: The feature set assumes compatibility with newer Minn Kota network systems.
ONTISIV Corded Foot Pedal For Electric Trolling Motor
Best for broad compatibility with PowerDrive V2 bow-mount motors and Copilot systems. It provides an 18-foot cable, IP68 waterproof plug, and ergonomic side-to-side steering with a momentary/constant on switch plus a speed control knob. Choose this if you want wide compatibility and robust waterproofing. Caution: Verify your motor’s Copilot and PowerDrive V2 compatibility before purchase.
Garmin Foot Pedal For Force Trolling Motor
Best for users with a Force wireless trolling motor seeking a cable-like feel with wireless convenience. It provides immediate control and responsive steering similar to a wired pedal. Choose this if you already own a Garmin Force system and prefer wireless operation. Limitation: Requires a compatible Force motor setup to function as intended.
Buying Guide
- Motor compatibility: Match the pedal to your trolling motor’s model family (PowerDrive V2, Ulterra, Terrova, Riptide, Force, etc.).
- Power rating and durability: Look for 12V–24V compatibility and a 50A rating for strong, stable operation in varied water conditions.
- Cable length: An 18-foot cable is common; longer reach helps on larger boats but adds clutter on small decks.
- Waterproofing: IP68/IP65 ratings indicate better protection against splashes and immersion; this matters in saltwater and rough water.
- Ergonomics and fatigue: A tilting, non-slip surface reduces fatigue on long days of fishing.
- Control features: Dual steering, Spot-Lock activation, AutoPilot, and speed controls vary by model. Consider which features you actually use.
- Maintenance: Choose pedals with corrosion resistance and simple internal designs to minimize sticking or failure.
FAQ
- What is a foot pedal for trolling motors? A foot pedal provides hands-free control for steering, speed, and sometimes motor deployment, allowing you to keep your rod and line steady while navigating.
- Are all foot pedals compatible with every trolling motor? No. Pedals are designed to fit specific motor families (e.g., Minn Kota PowerDrive V2, Ulterra, Terrova, Riptide) and voltage (12V/24V). Always verify compatibility.
- Should I choose a corded or wireless pedal? Corded pedals are reliable and straightforward, offering consistent response. Wireless pedals (like Garmin Force) offer freedom of movement but depend on battery connections and signal reliability.
- Do foot pedals require special maintenance? Regularly inspect the cable, plug, and pedal surface for wear, corrosion, and water intrusion. Clean and dry after exposure to water and salt spray.
- What features matter most? For frequent anglers, dual-mode steering, Spot-Lock integration, and a comfortable, non-slip pedal surface are most beneficial.
- Is longer cable better? A longer cable provides more deck mobility on larger boats but can create clutter. Choose a length that balances range with deck space.