Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 Trolling Motor Review

The Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 Trolling Motor with Wireless Remote is a powerful, feature-rich option for saltwater anglers and boaters looking for a reliable trolling motor that can handle the challenges of coastal and freshwater environments. Built with durability and performance in mind, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 offers exceptional thrust, innovative controls, and the trusted reliability of Minn Kota's Riptide series. If you’re an angler who spends significant time in saltwater or tough freshwater conditions, this trolling motor may be the perfect fit.

Key Features:

1. 70lb Thrust & 24V Power: The 70lb thrust provided by the 24V system ensures that the motor is powerful enough for mid-to-large-sized boats. Whether you're fishing in strong currents, dealing with windy conditions, or carrying a heavy load, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 delivers consistent, reliable power to keep your boat moving smoothly. The 24V power system balances performance and battery life, making it a great option for anglers looking for sustained motor performance over longer trips.

2. 54" Shaft Length: The 54" shaft provides ample depth for most boats, especially when fishing in varying water depths or rough conditions. It’s ideal for boats with medium to deep transoms, offering better control in choppy waters or deeper, more turbulent conditions. The long shaft length also helps to maintain better performance when you’re navigating through waves or drifting.

3. Riptide Saltwater Protection: Designed specifically for saltwater environments, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 features a corrosion-resistant design that is built to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater fishing. The motor is coated with a durable, saltwater-resistant material to ensure it performs well in the most demanding saltwater conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for anglers who frequently fish in coastal areas, as it can stand up to the wear and tear of saltwater exposure without compromising performance.

4. Wireless Remote Control: One of the standout features of the Riptide PowerDrive 70 is its wireless remote control, which offers convenience and ease of use. With this remote, you can control the trolling motor’s speed, direction, and even activate the Autopilot feature from anywhere on the boat. This eliminates the need to constantly adjust the motor manually, allowing you to focus on fishing or other tasks. The remote is ergonomic and user-friendly, providing smooth control with the touch of a button.

5. Spot-Lock and Autopilot: The Autopilot feature ensures that the motor can maintain a straight heading, even in windy or current-driven conditions, making it easier to fish in specific locations. Spot-Lock, a signature Minn Kota feature, holds your boat in place by maintaining its position using GPS technology. This feature is perfect for fishing in tight spots or when you want to remain over a particular fishing location, like a drop-off or reef. It provides hands-free boat control and is a major benefit for anglers who want to fish without constantly repositioning their boat.

6. Digital Maximizer Technology: The Digital Maximizer technology extends battery life by providing consistent power usage. This allows the Riptide PowerDrive 70 to run up to five times longer on a single charge compared to older models. The technology optimizes power consumption for a more efficient and longer-lasting performance, making it perfect for all-day fishing trips. This feature is especially useful for anglers who plan to stay on the water for extended periods without needing to recharge or change batteries.

7. Quiet Operation: The Riptide PowerDrive 70 operates with very little noise, which is ideal for anglers who need stealth in the water. Its quiet motor allows you to approach fishing spots without spooking fish, which can significantly improve your chances of a successful catch. The low noise output makes it perfect for shallow-water fishing, where noise can often scare away fish.

8. Easy-to-Use Foot Pedal or Remote: While the wireless remote offers ultimate control, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 also includes an optional foot pedal for those who prefer traditional control. The foot pedal allows for hands-free operation, letting you control the motor while keeping your hands free for fishing. This combination of remote and foot pedal control options provides versatility, ensuring anglers can operate the motor however they prefer.

Pros:

• 70lb thrust is more than sufficient for mid-to-large-sized boats, even in challenging water conditions.
• Saltwater-resistant construction ensures durability in harsh, corrosive environments.
• Wireless remote control provides convenience and flexibility, enabling hands-off operation from anywhere on the boat.
• Spot-Lock and Autopilot provide advanced positioning and navigation features, reducing manual effort.
• Digital Maximizer technology extends battery life, providing longer runs between charges.
• Quiet operation ensures stealth for fishing in sensitive areas.
• 54” shaft length is ideal for a variety of boat sizes and water conditions.
• Foot pedal option for hands-free control when desired.
• Proven reliability of the Minn Kota Riptide series ensures excellent long-term performance.

Cons:

• Price: The Riptide PowerDrive 70 comes at a premium price point, which might be a consideration for anglers on a budget.
• Weight: At around 50 lbs, the motor is slightly heavier compared to other trolling motors, which could be a factor when installing or removing the motor.
• 24V battery requirement: You’ll need to have a 24V battery system in place, which can add to the overall cost if you don’t already own one.
• No advanced GPS integration: While the Spot-Lock and Autopilot are excellent features, the motor does not offer the level of integrated chartplotter support or mapping that some higher-end models provide.

Final Thoughts:

The Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 Trolling Motor with Wireless Remote is a top-tier trolling motor designed to perform in the harshest saltwater environments. With its 70lb thrust, advanced Spot-Lock, and Autopilot capabilities, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 offers an incredibly user-friendly experience with hands-free boat control, ideal for serious anglers who want to focus more on fishing and less on motor operation.

Its saltwater protection, quiet operation, and long battery life make it perfect for anglers seeking reliability and longevity during extended trips. The added bonus of wireless control allows for easy adjustments without needing to be tethered to the motor, giving you flexibility and convenience on the water.

While it may be on the pricier side, the Riptide PowerDrive 70 is a solid investment for boaters who demand quality, performance, and ease of use. If you are looking for a durable, efficient, and feature-rich trolling motor that performs well in all types of saltwater conditions, the Minn Kota Riptide PowerDrive 70 is an excellent choice.