Trolling Motor Batteries

[SpartanBass]

Need to replace my two trolling motor batteries.  What recommendations do you guys have?  Not gonna break the bank but would like some good, reliable ones.  Thanks of the help.

[RushFan]

Well that depends!  If you were happy with the performance of what you are using now then ok.  That said, take some time to look at reserve capacity.  The more the longer they will last.  My particular set up is a 24v system with the Bass Pro version (XPS) in a 27 series.  I would like 31 series, just don't physically have the space. 
I think there are 3 major manufactures that produce various "brands".  I think the Walmart is produced by Exide, could be wrong.  Check the warranty closely as there is a running change to the warranty.  Used to be a non prorated but that's chnaging.
Regardless, maintenance is everything.  First thing I do is plug in the charger.  Once charged, I plug them back in 2 or 3 days later and the evening before heading out.  My on board is 5 amps per bank.  Once a month I pull mine, clean and check water level.  I use only distilled, steam not osmosis.  I also "rotate" them.  The #1 becomes #2.  Used white out to I.D. them. 
Maybe I over do it but my current set is four years oldas of last May.

[Donald Garner]

I've had really good success with the Wal Mart batteries.

[BassBUFF]

I've had really good success with the Wal Mart batteries.

Can't complain with those either. I've got an Academy brand on board now as wally world was out last time I needed one and it's working well too.

As mentioned, proper maintenance is the key! Great advice so far.

[hunter34]

I have very good luck with interstate deep cycle batteries

[OutdoorFrontiers]

I refuse to spend the big bucks any longer on high dollar trolling motor batteries.  I bought three Optimas, then moved 750 miles away from the store I bought them from (which had since gone out of business).  After I began having battery problems and the batteries were still under warranty, I was told by Optima basically, "Too bad, so sad, take them back where you got them."

Now I have been running Walmart batteries for the past three years and doing just fine on their batteries.  And if I need to replace them, I'm not laying out over $300 per battery for the bloody things...

Steve

[SpartanBass]

Thanks for your input.  I went with a MASON 31 battery.  Everyone around here uses them and they seem to last a while.  Walmart's Everstart was only $15 cheaper per battery but this one has more reserve capacity and more amps.  I also noticed that the Everstart I had had more cranking Amps than the newer ones.  875 compared to 845.  Thought that was odd.

[Capt. BassinLou]

I have been using Diehards. I have had the same pair for trolling and cranking for 5yrs now.