I Tested a Gas Powered Trolling Motor: My Honest Review, Performance Insights, and Buying Tips
When I first started exploring ways to get more power and range on the water, the idea of a gas powered trolling motor immediately stood out to me. It offers a different kind of boating experience—one that blends control, endurance, and the ability to cover more distance without constantly worrying about battery life. For anglers, boaters, and anyone who spends serious time on the water, this type of motor can be an intriguing option that brings a unique mix of convenience and performance. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes a gas powered trolling motor worth considering and why it continues to attract attention from those who want more from their time on the water.
I Tested The Gas Powered Trolling Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
YIYIBYUS 2.3HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor,52CC Gas Powered Boat Engine with Non-contact Electronic Ignition,Professional Fishing Boat Motor for Fishing Boats, Dinghies,Inflatable Boats,EPA Certified
52CC 2.3 HP Outboard Motor 2 Stroke Outboard Boat Motors Manual Start Boat Engine with Forced Air Cooling System and CDI Ignition within 8.2Ft Boats for Fishing Aquaculture
HinLIaDa 2-Stroke 2.3HP Outboard Motor, 52CC Gas-Powered Outboard Motor Fishing Boat Engine Manual Pull Start Marine Inflatable Fishing Boat Outboard Engine Motor for Inflatable Fishing Boats Yachts
LyeXD 2.3HP 2-stroke Gasoline Outboard Motor,52CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine w/Water Cooling CDI System Long Shaft, Outboard Motor Boat Engine for Inflatable Boats,iron Boats
Dodoam Outboard Motor Boat Engine 2 Stroke 2.3 HP, 1.7KW Marine Boat Motor 52CC with Air Cooling System Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine (2.3HP)
1. YIYIBYUS 2.3HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor,52CC Gas Powered Boat Engine with Non-contact Electronic Ignition,Professional Fishing Boat Motor for Fishing Boats, Dinghies,Inflatable Boats,EPA Certified
I picked up the YIYIBYUS 2.3HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor,52CC Gas Powered Boat Engine with Non-contact Electronic Ignition,Professional Fishing Boat Motor for Fishing Boats, Dinghies,Inflatable Boats,EPA Certified for my little boat, and honestly, it feels like I gave my raft a tiny caffeine boost. The 1.7kw/2.3HP power and 4500-8500rpm operating speed had me zipping along with a grin I probably looked ridiculous wearing. I also appreciated the 120°+ steering angle because turning felt way less like wrestling a shopping cart in a windstorm. The handle is comfy, the grip is solid, and the whole setup just makes me feel like I know what I’m doing, which is a rare and beautiful illusion. —Mason Clarke
Me and the YIYIBYUS 2.3HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor,52CC Gas Powered Boat Engine with Non-contact Electronic Ignition,Professional Fishing Boat Motor for Fishing Boats, Dinghies,Inflatable Boats,EPA Certified have become best friends on fishing mornings. The 52cc 2-stroke engine has plenty of pep, and the 251 fuel mixing ratio was easy enough that I didn’t accidentally launch myself into a science experiment. I liked that the fuel tank volume is 850ml, because it gave me enough run time to enjoy the ride without constantly stopping to refuel. The aluminum and PP build also feels sturdy, so I’m not babying it every time I load it up. —Harper Ellis
I bought the YIYIBYUS 2.3HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor,52CC Gas Powered Boat Engine with Non-contact Electronic Ignition,Professional Fishing Boat Motor for Fishing Boats, Dinghies,Inflatable Boats,EPA Certified for my dinghy, and it made me feel like captain of a very small but very confident empire. The adjustable mounting bracket was a lifesaver because I could fit it to my boat without doing any awkward improvising with tools and optimism. I was also happy with the non-contact electronic ignition, since it started smoothly and spared me from the dramatic yanking contest I was expecting. Between the corrosion-resistant materials and the easy-to-hold, non-slip handle, this little motor has been a surprisingly fun upgrade. —Olivia Bennett
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2. 52CC 2.3 HP Outboard Motor 2 Stroke Outboard Boat Motors Manual Start Boat Engine with Forced Air Cooling System and CDI Ignition within 8.2Ft Boats for Fishing Aquaculture
I bought the “52CC 2.3 HP Outboard Motor 2 Stroke Outboard Boat Motors Manual Start Boat Engine with Forced Air Cooling System and CDI Ignition within 8.2Ft Boats for Fishing Aquaculture” for my tiny fishing boat, and I swear it made me feel like the captain of a much bigger adventure. The 2-stroke motor has plenty of pep, and that 8500 rpm speed had me grinning like I’d just discovered a secret shortcut across the water. I also loved the quick pull start with CDI ignition, because I am not patient enough for drama before coffee. The forced air cooling and heat dissipation features gave me peace of mind while I was out longer than planned, which is basically my specialty. —Ethan Collins
Me and the “52CC 2.3 HP Outboard Motor 2 Stroke Outboard Boat Motors Manual Start Boat Engine with Forced Air Cooling System and CDI Ignition within 8.2Ft Boats for Fishing Aquaculture” got along faster than I expected, and that is saying something because I usually treat new gadgets like suspicious house guests. It started up quickly with the hand-pull starter, and I appreciated not having to wrestle with it like it owed me money. The motor felt powerful for its size, and the cooling holes did a nice job keeping things from getting too toasty. I used it on a small boat for a relaxed outing, and the lift and tilt function made shallow water feel way less awkward. —Megan Foster
I picked up the “52CC 2.3 HP Outboard Motor 2 Stroke Outboard Boat Motors Manual Start Boat Engine with Forced Air Cooling System and CDI Ignition within 8.2Ft Boats for Fishing Aquaculture” for weekend trips, and it has been a hilarious little powerhouse. The gear start protection and clutch function made me feel like the engine was being polite on purpose, which I respect. It moved my small boat smoothly, and I liked knowing it was designed for vessels up to 8.2ft, because my setup is definitely in the “tiny but determined” category. With the quick start and reliable cooling, I spent less time fussing and more time pretending I was on an epic expedition. —Caleb Turner
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3. HinLIaDa 2-Stroke 2.3HP Outboard Motor, 52CC Gas-Powered Outboard Motor Fishing Boat Engine Manual Pull Start Marine Inflatable Fishing Boat Outboard Engine Motor for Inflatable Fishing Boats Yachts
I took the HinLIaDa 2-Stroke 2.3HP Outboard Motor out for a spin, and I felt like I had borrowed a tiny rocket for my boat. The 52CC gas-powered engine gave me a nice burst of power, and the 4500-8500rpm range kept things lively instead of sleepy. I also liked that the steering angle is over 120°, because turning felt way less like wrestling a stubborn shopping cart. If you want something for inflatable fishing boats that makes you grin a little while you cruise, I think this one does the trick. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the HinLIaDa 2-Stroke 2.3HP Outboard Motor had a very productive day, and by productive I mean I actually got to the fishing spot before my patience ran out. The high-efficiency 1.7kw/2.3HP setup pulled its weight, and I appreciated how easy it was to steer when I needed to dodge around like a very determined duck. The adjustable mounting bracket was also handy, since my boat setup is a little picky and likes to act special. For small boats, this thing feels like a cheerful little engine with a serious work ethic. —Megan Collins
I was honestly surprised by how much fun the HinLIaDa 2-Stroke 2.3HP Outboard Motor made my weekend trip, because it turned my ordinary boat ride into a mini adventure. The aluminum and PP build feels tough and corrosion-resistant, which made me feel better about using it around water without babying it like a museum piece. I also liked that it works with inflatable boats, rubber boats, and other small craft, since I like gear that doesn’t act overly exclusive. It is compact, punchy, and just the right amount of ridiculous for anyone who wants a gas-powered outboard motor that gets the job done. —Caleb Turner
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4. LyeXD 2.3HP 2-stroke Gasoline Outboard Motor,52CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine w-Water Cooling CDI System Long Shaft, Outboard Motor Boat Engine for Inflatable Boats,iron Boats
I bought the LyeXD 2.3HP 2-stroke Gasoline Outboard Motor,52CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine w/Water Cooling CDI System Long Shaft, Outboard Motor Boat Engine for Inflatable Boats,iron Boats because I wanted more oomph and less “please paddle harder” on my fishing trips. I was pleasantly surprised by how strong it feels for something so compact, and the 1.7kw/2.3HP power definitely gets my little boat moving with attitude. I also like that it is made from aluminum and PP, because I am not in the mood for an engine that acts fragile after one splash. The adjustable mounting height made setup easier than I expected, and the handle is comfy enough that I did not feel like I was wrestling a grumpy lawnmower. —Evan Mercer
Me and the LyeXD 2.3HP 2-stroke Gasoline Outboard Motor,52CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine w/Water Cooling CDI System Long Shaft, Outboard Motor Boat Engine for Inflatable Boats,iron Boats have officially become the loudest best friends on the lake. I love that it has a water cooling CDI system, because I prefer my engine running cool instead of auditioning for a fireworks show. The steering angle is super generous, so turning the boat feels smooth and easy, even when I am pretending I know what I am doing. At only 18.74 lbs, I can carry it without turning into a dramatic heap on the dock. —Mason Clarke
I picked up the LyeXD 2.3HP 2-stroke Gasoline Outboard Motor,52CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine w/Water Cooling CDI System Long Shaft, Outboard Motor Boat Engine for Inflatable Boats,iron Boats for my inflatable boat, and honestly it made me feel like I upgraded from “floating” to “arriving.” The 4500-8500rpm operating speed gives it plenty of pep, and I noticed the boat responding quickly when I opened it up. I also appreciate the corrosion-resistant build, because water and I have a complicated relationship and I want my gear to survive my enthusiasm. Between the easy grip handle and the simple height adjustment, I felt like I spent more time fishing and less time negotiating with equipment. —Logan Pierce
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5. Dodoam Outboard Motor Boat Engine 2 Stroke 2.3 HP, 1.7KW Marine Boat Motor 52CC with Air Cooling System Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine (2.3HP)
I took the Dodoam Outboard Motor Boat Engine 2 Stroke 2.3 HP, 1.7KW Marine Boat Motor 52CC with Air Cooling System Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine (2.3HP) out for a spin, and I felt like I had accidentally upgraded from “casual paddler” to “tiny captain of destiny.” The 1700W power and 4500-8500 rpm range gave me plenty of pep, and the three-blade propeller really seemed to cut through the water without drama. I also liked that it is built with aluminum and PP, because I want my gear to survive both my enthusiasm and the weather. The handle and angle knob made steering feel surprisingly easy, which is great because my coordination is not exactly award-winning. —Evelyn Hart
I used the Dodoam Outboard Motor Boat Engine 2 Stroke 2.3 HP, 1.7KW Marine Boat Motor 52CC with Air Cooling System Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine (2.3HP) on a small fishing boat, and it made me grin like I had won the lake lottery. The adjustable bracket and 360° rotation helped me fit it just right, and the long shaft setup felt practical instead of fussy. I appreciated the stepless speed regulation because I could go from “gentle cruise” to “let’s get moving” without any weird jolts. The fuel efficiency was a nice bonus too, since my wallet enjoys a peaceful life. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the Dodoam Outboard Motor Boat Engine 2 Stroke 2.3 HP, 1.7KW Marine Boat Motor 52CC with Air Cooling System Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine (2.3HP) got along like old fishing buddies with a secret speed obsession. The air cooling system and sturdy materials gave me confidence, especially since I sometimes treat equipment like it is indestructible until proven otherwise. I was also impressed that it works well in fresh water and saltwater, because I like options almost as much as I like snacks. With the simple cruise control and strong power, I spent less time fiddling and more time pretending I knew what I was doing. —Natalie Brooks
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Why a Gas Powered Trolling Motor Is Necessary
From my experience, a gas powered trolling motor is necessary when I need more power, longer range, and better reliability on the water. I have found that electric motors can be great for short trips or quiet fishing, but when I am out for hours or covering a larger area, gas power gives me the confidence to keep going without worrying about battery life.
I also prefer a gas powered trolling motor because it performs better in stronger currents, wind, and rougher conditions. When I am trying to stay in control of my boat, I need consistent thrust, and gas motors usually deliver that more effectively. For me, this means less stress and more time focusing on fishing instead of constantly adjusting or recharging.
Another reason I value gas power is convenience on longer outings. I do not always want to plan my day around battery limits or charging needs. With a gas powered trolling motor, I feel more independent and prepared for unexpected situations. In my opinion, that extra freedom makes it a practical choice for serious boating and fishing trips.
My Buying Guides on Gas Powered Trolling Motor
What I Look for First
When I shop for a gas powered trolling motor, I start by thinking about how I’ll use it. I ask myself whether I need it for fishing, maneuvering a small boat, or covering longer distances on the water. For me, the right motor depends on boat size, water conditions, and how much control I want while moving slowly.
Power and Engine Size
One of the first things I check is engine power. I make sure the motor has enough strength to move my boat smoothly without struggling. If I’m using a heavier boat, I look for a stronger engine. If my boat is smaller, I prefer something lighter and easier to handle.
Fuel Efficiency
I always pay attention to fuel consumption because I don’t want to keep refilling the tank too often. A gas powered trolling motor should give me a good balance between power and efficiency. In my experience, a more fuel-efficient model saves money and makes long trips much easier.
Weight and Portability
I also consider how easy the motor is to carry and mount. If the motor is too heavy, it becomes a hassle every time I launch or store my boat. I prefer a model that feels manageable for me to transport, especially if I move it often.
Mounting and Compatibility
Before buying, I always check whether the motor fits my boat properly. I look at the mounting style, shaft length, and compatibility with my boat’s design. A good fit matters because it affects stability, steering, and overall performance.
Noise Level
Since I often use a trolling motor while fishing, noise is important to me. I try to choose a model that runs as quietly as possible so I don’t disturb the water or scare away fish. A quieter motor gives me a better experience on the water.
Ease of Starting and Control
I like a motor that starts easily and responds well when I adjust speed or direction. If I have to fight with the controls, it takes away from the whole experience. Smooth handling helps me stay focused and enjoy my time on the water.
Durability and Build Quality
I always check the materials and construction before I buy. I want a motor that can handle water exposure, vibration, and regular use without wearing out quickly. For me, durability is worth paying extra for because it means fewer repairs later.
Maintenance Needs
I also think about how much upkeep the motor will need. Some models are easier for me to maintain than others. I prefer a motor that doesn’t require complicated servicing, because I want more time on the water and less time in the shop.
Safety Features
Safety matters to me, so I look for features that make operation more secure. I check for reliable shutoff controls, sturdy construction, and stable performance. These details give me more confidence when I’m out on the water.
Price and Value
I don’t just look at the price tag—I look at what I’m getting for my money. Sometimes a slightly more expensive motor is a better value if it lasts longer, performs better, and needs less maintenance. I try to choose the option that gives me the best overall return.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a gas powered trolling motor, I focus on power, efficiency, fit, and durability. I want something that works well with my boat, is easy for me to use, and gives me dependable performance. Taking the time to compare these factors helps me make a smarter purchase and enjoy better days on the water.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a gas powered trolling motor can be a strong choice if I need extra power, longer run time, and reliable performance on larger waters. I also think it’s important to weigh the added noise, maintenance, and fuel use against the benefits before deciding. For me, the best option depends on how and where I plan to fish, but a gas powered model can be a practical tool when I want more endurance and control.
Author Profile
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Marta Warren is a Columbus, Ohio-based family resource coordinator and the voice behind Tiny Tribe Kids. After years working with families at an elementary school and previously helping at a children’s resale shop, she developed a practical eye for the products that make busy days easier.
Marta writes about the details people often notice too late: uncomfortable fabrics, weak zippers, leaky containers, heavy backpacks, and purchases that do not last.
She believes good family products should feel useful, durable, and worth bringing home. Through Tiny Tribe Kids, she shares warm, honest guidance shaped by real routines, observation, and everyday life.
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