Despite its “Maxxum” name suggesting premium features, this popular Minn Kota trolling motor earned 3/5 stars in my extensive testing.
I’ll show you exactly why this basic bow-mount might be perfect for some anglers – and why others might want to look elsewhere.
Last updated: January 9th, 2025
Maxxum Model Reviews
I spent weeks testing various models of the Minn Kota Maxxum on my 16-foot bass boat, and here’s the straight truth: this series is built for beginner anglers just getting into bow-mount trolling motors.
The simplicity of the Maxxum is both its strength and weakness. While I appreciate how easy it is to use, I wish it had more room to grow.
There is no way to upgrade it through add-ons like i-Pilot; this also means you won’t have spot-lock. I would’ve preferred it to be a trolling motor that can grow with the angler.
At first, the basic features will be enough to handle most of your needs. But if you dive deeper into fishing, you’ll likely outgrow it within a couple of years.
The model lineup is straightforward. You’ll find different shaft lengths, thrust options, and power options, but the core features stay the same.
All models are priced between $700 – $1100.
If you fish saltwater, the Riptide (saltwater) Maxxum models feature variable speed tiller-handled bow mount trolling motors instead of bow-mounted cable steer trolling motors.
They’re more corrosion resistant than the regular models, so they also come at a higher price ($800 – $1500).
Minn Kota Maxxum 55
In my experience, the Minn Kota Maxxum 55 is an ideal choice for a large Jon boat or small bass boat.
Its 12-volt system pushes 55 pounds of thrust through the Weedless Wedge 2 prop. The 42-inch shaft length hits the sweet spot for most anglers.
This model is priced at around $800 – a fair price for what you get.
Minn Kota Maxxum 65
The Max65 steps up to 24 volts for the 65 pounds of thrust with the same composite shaft length options as the Max55. It is best in bass boats with room for an extra 12v marine battery.
My honest advice: if you’re looking at the Max65 (priced at around $850), you may want to jump straight to the Max70.
You’ve got two choices with the Max70: grab the 42-inch shaft version that’s actually a hundred bucks cheaper than the Max65 (priced $750), or spend $200 more for the longer 52-inch shaft version (priced $1050).
Either way, you’re getting more power for your money, and all the other features remain identical.
Minn Kota Maxxum 70
The Maxxum 70 runs on the same 24-volt system as the Max65, but delivers 70 pounds of thrust – I’ve found those extra five pounds make a noticeable difference when fighting wind or current.
Price-wise, as mentioned earlier, you’re looking at about $750 for the 42-inch shaft version, or $1,050 if you need the 52-inch shaft.
Minn Kota Maxxum 80
Rounding out the 24-volt lineup is the Maxxum 80, pushing an impressive 80 pounds of thrust. This extra thrust makes a difference in choppy water or when battling stronger currents.
I’d recommend it for deep v-hull boats that need more power to propel through the water.
You can get the Max80 with a 42″, 52″, or 62″ shaft to match your boat’s needs.
It isn’t so commonly available so you will have to hunt a bit to find one in stock.
Minn Kota Maxxum 101
The Maxxum 101, like the Maxxum 80, is less common so it can be hard to find in stores. It jumps up to a 36-volt system to deliver a whopping 101 pounds of thrust.
Unless you own a large boat, as in over 22ft, you shouldn’t need this much power.
A couple of exceptions would be if you plan to fish in strong currents and your area is known for high winds.
Maxxum Features & Benefits
The Maxxum is a basic trolling motor that doesn’t offer many features.
This means it’s excellent for learning how to operate a trolling motor, but it lacks any room for growth once you’ve mastered cable-steer control.
The following are the features Minn Kota boasts the Maxxum has on most of its models.
Bowguard 360 Breakaway Mount
The Bowguard 360 breakaway mount is designed to protect your boat’s trolling motor and bow.
It is a great safety feature for shallow water anglers who tend to run into rocks and stumps. Instead of breaking your trolling motor or ripping a hole in the bow, it gives on impact and automatically resets itself.
Digital Maximizer
Digital Maximizer is Minn Kota’s way of saving battery.
The trolling motor only uses as much power as it needs, which prolongs run time up to five times longer.
This feature helps you stay on the water longer, which should mean more fish in the boat!
Illuminated Directional Indicator
The Illuminated Directional Indicator is a ridiculous way of saying it has an arrow that lights up and tells you the direction you’re going.
I admit it’s nice to have in low light conditions, but Minn Kota is trying to make it sound fancier than it is.
Having a directional indicator is essential to prepare yourself to move in that direction.
There have been more times than I like to admit where I’ve nearly thrown myself out of the boat because I wasn’t paying attention to the direction of the arrow.
Heel-Toe Cable Steer Foot Pedal
Cable steer trolling motors are known for responsiveness, meaning they turn quickly when you adjust them.
This is great for dodging rocks and stumps and quickly adjusting your boat position.
I’ve used both electric-steer and cable-steer. While I see the benefits of both, I prefer the cable steer.
The Heel-Toe refers to the steering method.
So instead of pressing a button on the right or left of the foot pedal, you’ll push your toe down to move in one direction and press down your heel to move in the other direction.
Riptide
Riptide models are Minn Kota’s way of telling us that they’re saltwater compatible. There’s not much difference in the freshwater model vs. saltwater model for most of their electric motors.
However, the Maxxum is different.
All the Riptide Maxxum models are tiller handles instead of cable steer footpedal.
It is an extendable handle that tilts; however, you still have to take one hand off your rod to steer the boat, which is inconvenient.
Customer Reviews About the Maxxum
In recent years, Minn Kota has slacked on their customer service and quality control. They were once known for long-lasting quality products, but now even Minn Kota lovers admit to a decline.
Here are a few of the negative customer reviews about the Maxxum:
Even with the noticeable decline, many people love their Minn Kota Maxxum. Here’s are some positive reviews from them:
As with most products, there are people on both sides of the fence. Some people hate it while others love it.
Alternatives
If you decided the Minn Kota Maxxum trolling motor is not for you, don’t worry; other trolling motors in a similar price range are worth checking out.
MotorGuide X3
The MotorGuide X3 starts at a lower price (under $600) than the Maxxum while offering similar features. This affordable model has a 12-volt system that offers 45 pounds peak thrust.
Haswing Cayman
The Haswing Cayman comes in under $700 and offers 55 pounds of maximum thrust through a 12-volt battery. It has a 48-inch shaft which is more generous compared to the Max55’s 42-inch one.
I like the Cayman’s wireless remote – good for moving around while controlling the boat.
Minn Kota Terrova
The Minn Kota Terrova is the thing to buy if you have a bigger budget. Costing between $1900 – $2800, this premium series offers more bells and whistles than the Maxxum – dual spectrum CHIRP sonar, GPS, wireless remote and more.
What Matters Most When Buying a Trolling Motor
Buying your first trolling motor is daunting and can be very confusing.
That’s why we’ve broken it down into what matters.
We know keeping these factors in mind while purchasing a trolling motor will help you make the best decision possible.
Quietness
Electric motors are quieter than combustible engines; however, some electric trolling motors are quieter than others.
A silent trolling motor is essential because it helps you sneak up on fish that otherwise would have heard you coming.
We’ve all spooked fish and know you’re chances of catching that fish are slim to none after it knowns you’re there.
The lower unit’s sound level is most important since it’s below the water’s surface.
If the head unit squeaks or makes other noises, it’s annoying for you as the operator, but it’s less likely to spook a fish.
I prefer everything to be as silent as possible on my trolling motors, but I also know that comes at a price.
Power
A trolling motor’s power is determined by the number of volts it’s designed to handle. A 12v trolling motor is less powerful than a 24v, which is less powerful than a 36v.
Just because you hook up a trolling motor to 36v doesn’t mean you’ll get more power, especially if it was only designed for 12v. You could damage your trolling motor if this is the case.
Always use only the recommended amount of power.
The power of a trolling motor is measured in thrust pounds or pounds of thrust. The larger the number, the more powerful the trolling motor.
55 to 75 pounds of thrust can propel most boats against the wind.
Choosing the correct size trolling motor goes a long way with how satisfied you will be with your electric trolling motor.
Durability
I don’t purchase anything with the intention of breaking it; however, I am tough on my equipment, and I inevitably break things.
So I need gear that will hold up to the abuses of my style of fishing.
The durability of a trolling motor will determine how long you get to use it without breaking it.
I will pay more for a trolling motor that will last longer than the cheaper ones.
Most trolling motors come with a nice 2-year warranty if it breaks in the first two years, but you’re out of luck if it breaks after the warranty is up.
Another reason durability is important is that I plan to use my trolling motor, not send it off to the shop for months at a time.
Functionality
I also like to keep things simple; not only does this help with the durability of the trolling motor, but it also helps me with using it while fishing.
I don’t need any complicated procedures to get fishing. I want something straightforward so I spend more time fishing and less time trying to understand my trolling motor.
The best trolling motors offer incredible features but keep them simple and functional.
Features vs. Budget
Typically, the more features you add to a product, the more expensive it is; trolling motors are no different.
That’s why it’s best to set your budget and determine which features are a must and which ones are just nice to have.
For a feature-rich trolling motor, prepare to spend $2,500 or more, while a simple trolling motor with basic features will cost several hundred to $1,000.
Final Thoughts
Many anglers prefer the simplicity of the Maxxum over other feature-rich trolling motors.
If you’re a weekend angler who doesn’t fish tournaments, then the Maxxum could be the perfect match.
However, if you think you’ll get into tournament fishing, I recommend spending the extra money on a Terrova.
Don’t hesitate to leave your Minn Kota Maxxum review in the comments!
