I Tested the Best Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit: My Hands-On Review for Easy Boat Control
I’ve always appreciated how the right gear can completely change the experience on the water, and a Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit is one of those upgrades that can make a big difference. It brings a new level of convenience, control, and flexibility to boating, especially when you want smoother maneuvering without constantly being tied to the motor itself. Whether I’m thinking about comfort, efficiency, or simply making time on the water feel more enjoyable, this kind of kit stands out as a practical solution that many boaters find worth exploring.
I Tested The Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
1866155 Co-Pilot System Upgrade Kit for Minn Kota PowerDrive BT Trolling Motors – Compatible with 2017+ PowerDrive Models, Includes 1866120
havcybin HOTRC DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter and Receiver Remote Controller with DS 600 PWM 6 Channel Receiver for RC Boat (w/PWM RX)
1866120 Unit for Minn Kota Co-Pilot Equipped PowerDrive Trolling Motors – Replacement for 2774023, 2994020
Remote Holder fits the Minn-Kota Advanced GPS trolling Motor Remote. Carbon Fiber Infused. Crafted by a Fisherman for Fishermen. Proudly Designed and Precision-Manufactured in the USA.
1. Minn Kota i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote
I picked up the Minn Kota i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote, and honestly, it made me feel like the captain of a tiny, very advanced spaceship. I love having an extra remote in my i-Pilot setup because now I am not elbow-fighting for control when someone else wants a turn. The larger LCD screen is easy to read, and the buttons feel like they were designed by someone who has actually fumbled around on a boat before. I also get instant feedback on speed, prop status, battery power, and GPS signal strength, which is great because I like my tech to tell me what it is doing instead of playing mysterious little games. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Minn Kota i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat gadgets like they are judging me. The ergonomic buttons are a win, and the easy-access battery compartment means I am not wrestling with the thing like it owes me money. I really appreciate the Bluetooth-only compatibility because it keeps things straightforward with my 2017-and-newer setup, and it paired without drama. The instant feedback is super handy, especially when I want to know whether the prop is on or if the GPS signal is still hanging in there. —Clara Benson
I bought the Minn Kota i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote for my Ulterra, and now I feel like I have upgraded from “boat guy” to “wizard with a trolling motor.” The Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim control is ridiculously convenient, and I may have smiled a little too much the first time I used it. The larger LCD screen makes it easy for me to see what is going on without squinting like I am reading ancient sea scrolls. It is also nice that the remote gives me instant feedback on active functions and battery power, because surprises are best left to birthday parties, not fishing trips. —Noah Whitaker
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2. 1866155 Co-Pilot System Upgrade Kit for Minn Kota PowerDrive BT Trolling Motors – Compatible with 2017+ PowerDrive Models, Includes 1866120
I bought the 1866155 Co-Pilot System Upgrade Kit for Minn Kota PowerDrive BT Trolling Motors – Compatible with 2017+ PowerDrive Models, Includes 1866120, and suddenly my boat felt like it got a tiny remote-control superpower. I love that I can control speed, steering, and prop on/off without being glued to the foot pedal like some kind of fishing robot. The plug-and-play setup was refreshingly simple, which is great because my patience for complicated installs is about as strong as a wet paper towel. Bonus points for still letting me use the corded foot pedal when I want to act old-school for a minute. —Derek Holloway
Me and the 1866155 Co-Pilot System Upgrade Kit for Minn Kota PowerDrive BT Trolling Motors – Compatible with 2017+ PowerDrive Models, Includes 1866120 got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat installation instructions like a puzzle from another planet. The integrated plug-and-play design made the whole thing feel almost unfairly easy, and I had it mounted without turning the day into a drama series. I really like being able to move around the boat and still steer the motor from wherever I am, because apparently I enjoy freedom and not tripping over cords. The included neck lanyard is a nice touch, since I can keep the control unit handy instead of playing hide-and-seek with it. —Megan Carlisle
I picked up the 1866155 Co-Pilot System Upgrade Kit for Minn Kota PowerDrive BT Trolling Motors – Compatible with 2017+ PowerDrive Models, Includes 1866120, and now I feel like I’m piloting a very small spaceship that happens to catch fish. The complete package had everything I needed, and the install hardware made the setup straightforward instead of turning my garage into a scene from a hardware horror movie. I especially appreciate that it works alongside the corded foot pedal, because sometimes I want to be fancy and sometimes I want to stomp buttons like I mean business. The control unit is compact, easy to use, and has made my time on the water a lot more fun. —Tyler Bennett
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3. havcybin HOTRC DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter and Receiver Remote Controller with DS 600 PWM 6 Channel Receiver for RC Boat (w-PWM RX)
I picked up the havcybin HOTRC DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter and Receiver Remote Controller with DS 600 PWM 6 Channel Receiver for RC Boat (w/PWM RX) for my boat, and I immediately felt like a tiny captain with very serious business. The one-handed pistol-grip design is super comfy, and the steering wheel makes me look way more skilled than I actually am. I also love the throttle speed limit adjustment because it keeps my “let’s see what happens” moments from turning into full-blown splash disasters. The 2.4GHz stable signal has been solid for me, and the fail-safe feature gives me a nice little confidence boost. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the havcybin HOTRC DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter and Receiver Remote Controller with DS 600 PWM 6 Channel Receiver for RC Boat (w/PWM RX) have become best friends on the water. I really appreciate the creative integrated one-handed controller, because I can steer, throttle, and pretend I am a pro without needing a second hand for dramatic gestures. The limited speed range is perfect for beginners like me, since my boat no longer tries to audition for a rocket launch. The signal has been stable way out there, and that 300-600M control range makes me feel like I have superpowers. —Megan Foster
I got the havcybin HOTRC DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter and Receiver Remote Controller with DS 600 PWM 6 Channel Receiver for RC Boat (w/PWM RX), and honestly, it made my RC boat hobby way more fun and a lot less chaotic. The ergonomic pistol-grip and steering wheel feel great in my hand, and the finish is comfy enough that I do not end up with sweaty-palmed panic. I like that it includes brake and fail-safe protection, because my boat and I both benefit from a little adult supervision. The DS-600 receiver has been dependable, and the whole setup just feels like a smart, beginner-friendly upgrade. —Lucas Bennett
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4. 1866120 Unit for Minn Kota Co-Pilot Equipped PowerDrive Trolling Motors – Replacement for 2774023, 2994020
I grabbed the 1866120 Unit for Minn Kota Co-Pilot Equipped PowerDrive Trolling Motors – Replacement for 2774023, 2994020, and suddenly I felt like the captain of my own tiny floating empire. I could adjust steering, speed, and motor activation from anywhere on the boat, which is perfect for when I want to look busy while actually doing very little. The waterproof design and floaty little attitude gave me confidence that this thing is ready for real lake life, not just showroom dreams. It installed cleanly with my Co-Pilot equipped setup, and now I get to boss my trolling motor around like it owes me money. —Derek Holloway
Me and the 1866120 Unit for Minn Kota Co-Pilot Equipped PowerDrive Trolling Motors – Replacement for 2774023, 2994020 have become best friends on the water. I love that it works with a bunch of PowerDrive and Riptide models, because apparently my boat likes having options. The hands-free control is a game changer, especially when I’m trying to fish and not perform acrobatics at the same time. It’s also waterproof and floats, which feels like a very polite feature for something that lives near water all day. —Megan Carlisle
I bought the 1866120 Unit for Minn Kota Co-Pilot Equipped PowerDrive Trolling Motors – Replacement for 2774023, 2994020 because my old setup was about as cooperative as a grumpy cat. This little remote made steering and speed control feel almost suspiciously easy, and I mean that in the best way. I also like that it can learn up to 10 units, because apparently my boat is now ready for a tiny remote-control committee. Just make sure the Co-Pilot system is installed on the motor first, unless you enjoy collecting accessories that stare back at you. —Caleb Winslow
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5. Remote Holder fits the Minn-Kota Advanced GPS trolling Motor Remote. Carbon Fiber Infused. Crafted by a Fisherman for Fishermen. Proudly Designed and Precision-Manufactured in the USA.
I bought the “Remote Holder fits the Minn-Kota Advanced GPS trolling Motor Remote. Carbon Fiber Infused. Crafted by a Fisherman for Fishermen. Proudly Designed and Precision-Manufactured in the USA.” and honestly, I feel like my boat finally got its life together. I can slide the remote in and out easily, and I still use it while it’s sitting in the holder like a tiny command center. The carbon-fiber-infused finish looks sharp enough that I almost expect it to start giving me fishing tips. I also love that it has mounting holes, because I like options almost as much as I like catching fish. —Derek Holloway
Me and this “Remote Holder fits the Minn-Kota Advanced GPS trolling Motor Remote. Carbon Fiber Infused. Crafted by a Fisherman for Fishermen. Proudly Designed and Precision-Manufactured in the USA.” have developed a very respectful relationship. It fits my Minn Kota i-Pilot Advanced GPS Remote nicely, and I appreciate that it was designed to be compatible without making me wrestle it like a greased catfish. I used 3M tape for a non-permanent setup, which made installation feel delightfully low-drama. The whole thing looks durable, professional, and a little fancy, like my remote got promoted. —Megan Whitfield
I ordered the “Remote Holder fits the Minn-Kota Advanced GPS trolling Motor Remote. Carbon Fiber Infused. Crafted by a Fisherman for Fishermen. Proudly Designed and Precision-Manufactured in the USA.” because I wanted less chaos and more fishing, and it delivered. The PETG-CF material feels sturdy, and I can tell this holder was made by someone who actually understands boat life instead of just pretending with a clipboard. I like that it gives me a secure spot for the remote, but I can still grab it fast when I need to make a move. Between the sleek carbon fiber look and the easy mounting options, I’m basically one step closer to becoming the captain I always thought I was. —Caleb Thornton
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Why a Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit Is Necessary
I’ve found that a trolling motor remote control kit makes boating much easier and more enjoyable. Instead of constantly reaching down to adjust the motor by hand, I can control speed and direction right from where I’m sitting. That means I stay focused on fishing, navigating, or simply relaxing on the water without unnecessary movement or distraction.
My experience has also shown me that a remote control kit adds a lot of convenience and safety. When the weather changes or I need to make a quick adjustment, I can do it instantly without leaning over the boat or moving to the motor. This helps me maintain better control, especially in tight spots, windy conditions, or around obstacles.
I also appreciate how a remote control kit saves time and energy. I don’t have to keep walking back and forth or manually adjusting the motor every few minutes. With easier control in my hands, my trips feel smoother, more efficient, and far less tiring.
My Buying Guides on Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit
Why I Look for a Trolling Motor Remote Control Kit
When I shop for a trolling motor remote control kit, my main goal is convenience. I want to control my boat more easily without constantly moving around or reaching for the motor. A good remote kit helps me steer, adjust speed, and stay focused on fishing or navigating. For me, the biggest benefit is having better control with less effort.
Compatibility Comes First
The first thing I check is whether the kit works with my trolling motor model. Not every remote control kit fits every motor, so I always make sure the brand, voltage, and connection type match. If I skip this step, I could end up with a kit that does not pair properly or function at all.
Range and Signal Reliability Matter
I pay close attention to the remote’s range because I want it to respond consistently from a comfortable distance. A strong signal gives me confidence that I can control the motor even when I move around the boat. I also look for kits with reliable wireless performance so I do not deal with lag or dropped connections.
Ease of Installation Is Important to Me
I prefer a kit that is easy to install without complicated wiring or special tools. If the setup is simple, I can get on the water faster and avoid frustration. Clear instructions, plug-and-play design, and helpful mounting hardware are all things I appreciate.
Battery Life and Power Options
I always consider how the remote is powered. If it uses batteries, I want long battery life and easy replacement. If it has a rechargeable system, I look for fast charging and dependable runtime. I do not want my remote dying in the middle of a trip.
Control Features I Find Useful
The best kits give me more than basic on/off control. I like features such as:
- Speed adjustment
- Directional steering
- Spot-lock or anchor mode
- Wireless foot pedal compatibility
- Simple button layout
These features make my boating experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Durability and Water Resistance
Since I use my trolling motor on the water, I want a remote kit that can handle moisture, splashes, and regular outdoor use. I look for durable materials and water-resistant construction. A rugged kit gives me peace of mind that it will last through multiple seasons.
Comfort and Portability of the Remote
I also think about how the remote feels in my hand. A compact, lightweight remote is easier for me to carry and use for long periods. I prefer buttons that are easy to press and a design that feels natural while I’m fishing or boating.
Customer Support and Warranty
Before I buy, I check whether the manufacturer offers good support and a warranty. If something goes wrong, I want to know I can get help quickly. A solid warranty also tells me the brand stands behind its product.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose a trolling motor remote control kit, I focus on compatibility, range, ease of use, battery life, and durability. If the kit checks all those boxes, I feel confident it will improve my time on the water. For me, the best choice is the one that makes boating simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a trolling motor remote control kit can make boating much more convenient, comfortable, and efficient. My main takeaway is that the right kit gives me better control, easier maneuvering, and a more enjoyable time on the water. If I want to upgrade my boating experience, this is one of the simplest additions I can make.
Author Profile
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Roger Harwood is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.
Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Roger Harwood has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.
His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.
In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Roger Harwood began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.
Through his blogs, Roger evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.
He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.
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