⚓ Minn Kota Terrova Trolling Motor Review: Smart, Silent, and Seriously Powerful

If you're a serious angler or weekend warrior looking for a game-changing bow-mount trolling motor, look no further than the Minn Kota Terrova. This feature-packed motor delivers precise boat control, near-silent operation, and smart navigation tools that give you a tactical edge on the water.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the performance, features, pros and cons, and how it compares to other motors like the Minn Kota Ultrex and MotorGuide Xi5.

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🎯 Quick Overview

Feature	Specs/Details
Thrust Options	55, 80, and 112 lbs
Shaft Lengths	45", 54", 60", 72"
Control	i-Pilot / i-Pilot Link / Foot Pedal
Mount	Bow-Mount, Electric Steer
GPS Features	Spot-Lock, AutoPilot, Routes & Waypoints
Price Range	$1,799 – $2,999+ depending on model

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🧠 Smart Features That Give You the Edge

🛰️ i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link with Spot-Lock

Lock your boat onto a fishing spot with precision using Spot-Lock GPS anchoring. No more fighting wind or current—just fish.

 

🧭 AutoPilot Navigation

Set a heading, and the Terrova will automatically correct for wind and waves to keep you on track—hands-free.

🦶 Improved Foot Pedal

Responsive and ergonomic, the foot pedal gives toe-controlled steering and a dedicated Spot-Lock button. (Available with non-Link models.)

📡 i-Pilot Link (Optional Upgrade)

Connect to a Humminbird fishfinder and control your trolling motor from the chartplotter. Create follow-the-contour routes, record paths, and more.

 

🔋 Digital Maximizer

Get up to 5x longer battery life by delivering only the power you need—perfect for long days on the water.

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⚙️ Performance on the Water

Whether you choose the 80-lb thrust 24V model or the 112-lb 36V powerhouse, the Terrova is built for control, stealth, and stamina. It shines in conditions where precision boat positioning is critical—think bass fishing near docks, drop-offs, or weed lines.

• Quiet operation: Electric steer is virtually silent

• Smooth deployment: Lift-Assist makes raising/lowering a breeze

• Rugged shaft: Unbreakable composite shaft with lifetime warranty

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🔄 Terrova vs Ultrex: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Terrova	Ultrex
Steering Type	Electric Steer	Cable Steer with Electric Assist
Spot-Lock	Yes	Yes (with Steer Assist hold)
Feel	Great for finesse control	Best for tournament anglers
Foot Pedal	Electric (feels digital)	Cable (feels mechanical + intuitive)
Price	$$	$$$

Verdict: Terrova is perfect for casual to serious anglers wanting a tech-heavy, quiet trolling motor. Ultrex wins if you love traditional cable feel and fish in shallow, snaggy areas.

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🧰 Installation Tips

• You’ll need a marine-grade 24V or 36V battery setup, depending on the thrust.

• Mounting to fiberglass? Use backing plates to reinforce the bow.

• Pair with a Humminbird Helix, SOLIX, or Apex unit to unlock full i-Pilot Link features.

 

🧭 Final Verdict: Feature-Rich and Fisher-Approved

If you're in the market for a smart, quiet, and powerful trolling motor, the Minn Kota Terrova is a top-tier choice. From GPS anchoring to remote control and sonar integration, it’s engineered for modern anglers who want more time fishing and less time fiddling with gear.

✅ Rating: 9.5/10 – Best electric steer trolling motor for serious anglers.