For avid anglers, a trolling motor is an indispensable piece of equipment, allowing for quiet and precise boat maneuvering. But when the fishing season winds down, and the boat gets tucked away for the winter, proper storage of your trolling motor battery becomes crucial. Neglecting this task can lead to reduced battery lifespan, diminished performance, and costly replacements.

Storing your trolling motor battery correctly ensures it’s ready to power your adventures when the water warms up again. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to store your Trolling Motor Battery during the off-season:

1. Clean and Inspect the Battery:

Before anything else, ensure the battery is clean and free of any corrosion or debris.

• Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the battery from the trolling motor and any other connected devices.
• Clean the terminals: Use a wire brush or a terminal cleaning tool to remove any corrosion from the battery terminals. A mixture of baking soda and water can also be effective.
• Wipe down the battery: Clean the entire battery casing with a damp cloth to remove dirt, grime, and any spilled electrolyte.
• Inspect for damage: Look for cracks, bulges, or leaks in the battery casing. If you notice any damage, consult a battery specialist.

2. Fully Charge the Battery:

A fully charged battery is less susceptible to sulfation, a process where sulfate crystals build up on the battery plates, reducing its capacity and lifespan.

• Use a smart charger: A smart charger is designed to automatically adjust the charging rate and prevent overcharging.
• Charge to 100%: Ensure the battery is fully charged before storing it.
• Check the voltage: Use a multimeter to verify the battery’s voltage. A fully charged 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 to 12.8 volts.

3. Choose the Right Storage Location:

The storage environment plays a significant role in battery health.

• Cool and dry: Store the battery in a cool, dry place with a consistent temperature. Avoid extreme temperatures, as they can accelerate battery degradation. Ideally, a temperature between 40°F and 60°F (4°C and 15°C) is recommended.
• Avoid freezing temperatures: Freezing temperatures can cause the electrolyte in the battery to freeze and expand, potentially damaging the battery casing and internal components.
• Ventilation: Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of hydrogen gas, which can be released during the charging process.
• Away from direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the battery to overheat and damage its internal components.
• Elevated surface: Store the battery on a non-conductive surface, such as a wooden shelf or a rubber mat, to prevent any potential electrical shorts.

4. Disconnect and Isolate the Battery:

Even when not in use, a battery can slowly discharge. To minimize this, disconnect and isolate the battery.

• Disconnect the terminals: Ensure the battery terminals are completely disconnected from any cables or devices.
• Protect the terminals: Cover the terminals with protective caps or electrical tape to prevent accidental short circuits.
• Store separately: If possible, store the battery away from other metal objects to prevent accidental connections.

5. Periodic Maintenance Charging:

Even when stored properly, a battery will slowly lose its charge. Periodic maintenance charging is essential to keep the battery in optimal condition.

• Check the voltage regularly: Every 4-6 weeks, check the battery’s voltage with a multimeter.
• Top off the charge: If the voltage drops below 12.4 volts, use a smart charger to top off the charge.
• Avoid overcharging: Do not leave the battery on the charger for extended periods, as this can lead to overcharging.

6. Consider Using a Battery Maintainer:

A battery maintainer, also known as a trickle charger, is a device that continuously monitors the battery’s voltage and provides a low-current charge to maintain it at full capacity.

• Connect the maintainer: Connect the maintainer to the battery terminals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Leave it connected: The maintainer will automatically cycle on and off to maintain the battery’s charge.
• Monitor the maintainer: Periodically check the maintainer to ensure it is functioning correctly.

7. Document the Storage Date:

Keeping a record of when you stored the battery will help you track its age and performance.

• Label the battery: Attach a label to the battery with the storage date.
• Keep a log: Maintain a log of the battery’s voltage readings and maintenance charging dates.

By following these steps, you can ensure your trolling motor battery remains in top condition during the off-season. This will not only extend its lifespan but also guarantee that your boat is ready to hit the water when the fishing season returns. Taking the time to properly store your battery is a small investment that pays off with years of reliable performance.