Minn Kota Terrova Review – is the best trolling motor

When it comes to bow mount trolling motors, Minn Kota stands out as one of the most trusted and popular brands in the market. Among their cutting-edge technology offerings, the Minn Kota Terrova shines as a standout model. But the ultimate question remains: does this technology truly deliver in terms of functionality on the water? Is it rugged and reliable, providing the stealthy approach required for a successful day of fishing? These are the questions we aim to answer.

In this comprehensive article, we take a deep dive into the Minn Kota Terrova. We’ll explore the various model options and highlight the many impressive features it boasts, examining how they translate to real-life use on the water. Here at Karibou Marine Supply, we proudly give the Minn Kota Terrova an A+ rating, and we’re excited to present a detailed review that showcases our reasoning, proving why this trolling motor is a top choice for serious anglers.

 

Terrova Features: Unraveling the Cutting-Edge Technology

The Minn Kota Terrova boasts an impressive array of features that have been expertly integrated into the motor. From hardware enhancements that improve functionality on the water to software innovations that provide a hands-off approach to using bow mount trolling motors, this model is packed with advancements. Here’s a rundown of the Terrova’s standout features:

1. Lift Assist: A brand-new design in Minn Kota motors, the Terrova features a lift assist mechanism that utilizes a nitrogen gas cylinder. This innovation significantly reduces the effort required when stowing the trolling motor, making it a breeze to handle.
2. Stow/Deploy Lever: The Terrova’s stow and deploy mechanism simplifies transitioning the trolling motor from stow to deploy positions. With a conveniently located lever at the motor’s base, you can easily initiate the movement with a single hand and foot, saving valuable time on the water.
3. i-Pilot: A ten-year-old pioneer in GPS control, i-Pilot is the standard for managing your trolling motor. Equipped with a wide LCD screen remote, the Terrova’s i-Pilot allows you to enjoy features like Spot-Lock, advanced auto-pilot, track recording, and cruise control.
4. i-Pilot Link: Certain Terrova models come with i-Pilot Link, offering Bluetooth accessibility. This feature enables you to control i-Pilot functions through your Humminbird fish finder or the new touchscreen remote.
5. Reinvented Spot-Lock with JOG: Minn Kota has revamped its highly popular GPS control feature, Spot-Lock. The improved system provides more accurate GPS anchoring, even in stronger currents. With the addition of JOG technology, you can now reposition your anchor in five-foot increments in any direction.
6. AutoPilot: Included in all i-Pilot models, AutoPilot allows you to lock in your current direction and heading, freeing you up to attend to other tasks while the trolling motor takes care of the navigation.
7. Universal Sonar 2: Selected Terrova models feature an integrated Universal Sonar 2. This transducer provides dual beam technology (200 and 83kHz) and includes a thermometer for monitoring water temperature. It is compatible with most major fishfinder brands.
8. Push to Test Battery Meter: A simple yet invaluable feature, the push-to-test battery meter offers instant visual indication of the remaining battery life. Equipped with LED lights for visibility in all lighting conditions, it keeps you informed throughout your expedition.
9. Weedless Wedge 2 Prop: Every Terrova model comes equipped with the Weedless Wedge 2 Prop. Designed with flared blades and swept back tips, this propeller effortlessly glides through underwater vegetation, providing a smooth and efficient performance.
10. Composite Shaft: Like all of Minn Kota’s trolling motors, the Terrova features a composite shaft backed by a lifetime warranty. This durable shaft is engineered to withstand abuse and extreme stress without breaking or warping, ensuring lasting reliability.

With an outstanding lineup of features, the Minn Kota Terrova proves itself as a top-notch choice for serious anglers. At Karibou Marine Supply, we give this advanced trolling motor an A+ rating, and our comprehensive review showcases the reasons why it’s a true game-changer in the world of water sports.

 

Cool Running Motor

Minn Kota’s commitment to efficiency and performance shines through in the meticulous design of their motors. Utilizing large winding and commutators, along with a high-quality bearing system, they have created a motor that rapidly dissipates heat. This not only enhances battery life but also results in a remarkably quiet operation, allowing anglers to stealthily navigate the waters.

For a more vivid insight into these remarkable features, watch the video below. It provides an excellent visualization of the foot pedal’s design and showcases the wide array of features you can effortlessly control with it. Minn Kota’s dedication to innovation and user experience truly sets them apart in the world of trolling motors.

 

Accessories: Enhancing Your Trolling Motor Experience

In addition to the comprehensive features offered with the Minn Kota Terrova, there are a few optional accessories available for purchase, providing further customization and convenience. Here’s a list of some of these accessory parts:

1. MK 460PC: On-board Marine Battery Charger – This powerful charger comes with four banks, offering 15 amps per bank, with a total output of 60 amps.
2. MK 345PC: On-board Marine Battery Charger – A versatile charger with three banks, delivering 15 amps per bank and a total output of 45 amps.
3. MK 230PC: On-board Marine Battery Charger – This compact charger includes two banks, each providing 15 amps, with a total output of 30 amps.
4. Bluetooth Micro-Remote – A streamlined and compact remote designed to control i-Pilot and other trolling motor features with ease.
5. MKA-16-03 Quick Release Bracket – An aluminum sliding-style bracket compatible with the Terrova and other models, offering effortless motor deployment and removal.
6. MKR 18 Plug and Receptacle – A reliable plug and receptacle accessory, ensuring a secure connection for your trolling motor.
7. MKR-US2-8 Universal Sonar 2 Adapter Cable – This essential cable allows you to seamlessly connect your Humminbird fishfinder with the US2 integrated sonar, enabling seamless communication between the two devices.

By incorporating these optional accessories, you can take your Minn Kota Terrova to new heights, elevating your trolling motor experience and enjoying enhanced functionality on the water. The freedom to tailor your setup to meet your specific needs truly sets the Minn Kota Terrova apart as a top-tier choice for passionate anglers.

 

Terrova Variants: Breaking Down Your Options

The Minn Kota Terrova offers a range of model options, providing you with various choices to suit your specific preferences. To ensure clarity in your decision-making process, we’ve prepared a quick model breakdown, outlining the key differences between each variant. These distinctions primarily revolve around integrated sonar, i-Pilot availability, autopilot feature, thrust metrics, and shaft length. Below, you’ll find the available models:

1. Terrova 55lb i-Pilot: This model comes with the Terrova foot pedal and boasts i-Pilot functionality, making it an excellent option for those seeking integrated sonar capabilities.
2. Terrova 55lb: Ideal for anglers who prefer manual control, this variant does not include i-Pilot but retains the essential features found in all Terrova models.
3. Terrova 80lb i-Pilot: Offering increased thrust and the convenience of i-Pilot, this model is perfect for those requiring more power and advanced software options.
4. Terrova 80lb: Similar to the previous variant but without i-Pilot, this model provides robust performance and dependable features for the avid angler.
5. Terrova 112lb i-Pilot: For maximum power and cutting-edge technology, this variant boasts 112lb of thrust and full i-Pilot capabilities, ensuring optimal performance on the water.

Regardless of your chosen Terrova model, you can expect certain standard features across the board. These include digital maximizer speed control, lift assist technology, stow and deploy lever, Terrova foot pedal (excluding the Terrova 55lb i-Pilot model), push-to-test battery meter, Weedless Wedge 2 prop, and a composite shaft backed by a lifetime warranty. With all these features included, your decision primarily revolves around selecting the size and power needed, as well as the software options that align best with your fishing style.

 

Terrova Review: Built to Endure

Ruggedness is a crucial aspect of any trolling motor, and the Minn Kota Terrova proves itself as a true workhorse, standing up to normal wear and tear with ease.

To provide an exceptional foundation, the Terrova employs an aluminum and high-impact resistant composite material for its mount. While this mount takes up a fair amount of space, it is necessary for accommodating the size and power of this larger trolling motor. To utilize the Terrova effectively, you’ll want a dedicated bass boat or a vessel with a sizable bow.

The composite shaft, covered by a lifetime warranty from Minn Kota, is another standout feature. Designed to withstand significant pressure, the shaft exhibits a unique bend-but-not-break characteristic, giving it impressive resilience. Unlike lighter metals that tend to warp under stress, the Terrova’s composite shaft remains highly resistant to deformation.

Other vital components, such as the prop and motor head, are crafted from a high-impact composite material. Though different from the shaft material, these components maintain exceptional resistance to flex and warping, ensuring long-lasting performance.

A standout feature of the Terrova is its ingenious design for stowing and deploying the trolling motor. Even with the increased thrust of the 80 and 112lb models, this process remains remarkably simple and hassle-free, making it a favorite among anglers.

In conclusion, the Minn Kota Terrova impresses with its durability, reliability, and user-friendly design. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a passionate hobbyist, this trolling motor will undoubtedly elevate your water adventures to new heights, providing a rugged and reliable companion for years to come.

 

Simplified Stowing and Deploying: Lift Assist and Intuitive Lever

One of the standout features of the Minn Kota Terrova is the lift assist, designed to make stowing the larger trolling motor a breeze. This gas-operated spring drastically reduces the effort required to lift the 80 and 112lb thrust models out of the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a young enthusiast, the Terrova’s lift assist proves to be a lifesaver, particularly during repeated stowing and deploying throughout the day. Even better, it also aids in controlling the motor’s descent when deploying it for use, ensuring smooth and controlled movements.

In addition to the lift assist, the Terrova features a user-friendly stow and deploy lever, adding to the convenience. Simply pressing the lever effortlessly engages the motor in deploying or stowing. This intuitive design contributes to an overall smoother process, making it feel seamless compared to using a pull handle for motor engagement and disengagement.

With these ingenious features, Minn Kota has truly optimized the stowing and deploying experience for the Terrova, offering anglers a hassle-free operation on the water.

 

Advanced Software: Embracing the i-Pilot Navigation System

The Minn Kota Terrova’s most prominent feature is undoubtedly the i-Pilot navigation system, which captures the attention of many anglers. Initially introduced in 2010, i-Pilot faced some skepticism from anglers, but it has since become one of the most trusted and sought-after trolling motor navigation systems in the industry.

There are two i-Pilot options available, depending on the Terrova model. The first is i-Pilot Link, featuring Bluetooth connectivity that seamlessly syncs with your Humminbird fishfinder. The second is the general i-Pilot, which comes with a compact, durable, and water-resistant remote. The remote has been redesigned, boasting a larger LCD screen and intuitive controls, making it user-friendly. If you desire more details about the i-Pilot, we have a comprehensive review available.

The remote that accompanies the i-Pilot is a standout feature. Lightweight and portable, it allows you to carry control of the trolling motor anywhere on the boat. Wear it on a lanyard or slip it into your pocket – the choice is yours. Designed to withstand water exposure, the remote even floats, adding a level of convenience and reassurance while you’re on the water. However, repeated dunking may lead to some malfunctions over time.

Whether you opt for the i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link, you gain access to a plethora of cool features. These advanced software options elevate your fishing experience, providing increased efficiency and versatility on the water. Minn Kota’s i-Pilot system has truly earned its place as a top choice for anglers seeking cutting-edge technology for their trolling motor.

 

Advanced Software for Enhanced Fishing Experience

The Minn Kota Terrova’s i-Pilot software introduces a new world of fishing technology, empowering anglers to focus more on presentation and fighting fish rather than worrying about motor control.

A standout feature is Spot-Lock, the GPS anchor that locks in your position within a small radius. The accuracy of Spot-Lock is impressive, but its effectiveness may vary based on water conditions. In heavy currents or choppy waters, the motor may require more power to maintain position. Nonetheless, Spot-Lock remains a valuable tool for anglers.

Complementing Spot-Lock is the JOG function, enabling you to move your position five feet in any direction. This comes in handy for quick adjustments to moving schools or obtaining better angles at structures without manual repositioning.

The i-Pilot’s i-Tracks feature lets you save up to 16 different routes, which you can instantly access through your remote or Humminbird. This allows you to retrace successful routes along shelf lines or specific shores, maximizing your fishing opportunities.

Cruise control and auto-pilot are other noteworthy features. Cruise control maintains your desired speed, while auto-pilot locks the boat into a specific heading, freeing you from constantly adjusting your course.

Additionally, the Universal Sonar (US2) integration enhances your fishing experience. US2 models come with a transducer integrated into the motor head, offering dual-beam technology (200kHz and 83kHz) for a sharper picture of bottom structure and a wider view of your surroundings. Although not the most advanced sonar on the market, it’s a convenient solution if you don’t have a preferred sonar/fish finder outfit.

Motor Control and Functionality

The Terrova foot pedal is crafted from a high-impact resistant composite material, providing excellent resistance to warping and flexing. With heel and toe control, the foot pedal allows you to manage most of the Terrova’s features right from your feet. Its durability and responsive design make it an invaluable tool for efficient motor control during your fishing endeavors.

 

Efficient Motor Control and Functionality

The Minn Kota Terrova’s foot pedal is engineered with a high-impact resistant composite material, ensuring durability and resistance to warping and flexing, which is common in foot pedals. Its heel and toe control design allows you to seamlessly manage most of the Terrova’s features directly from the pedal.

Included controls on the foot pedal are a momentary on button, ideal for manual use, a constant on button, an auto-pilot button (for models with auto-pilot), a spot lock button, and an infinite variable speed dial. Additionally, we appreciate the left and right steer buttons located below the heel guard. These directional buttons prove valuable when using software options for auto-pilot, allowing you to make quick adjustments to the motor’s direction in response to potential obstacles.

The foot pedal delivers incredible and sensitive control over the motor’s direction and speed settings. With no lag time between pressing on the toe or heel and the motor’s response, you experience smooth and precise control over the trolling motor.

Regarding the motor itself, Minn Kota has incorporated the latest technology developed over the past decade, resulting in a smoothly running and quiet motor. The digital variable speed control adds further benefits, offering more control at your fingertips while improving battery life. These advantages apply to all Terrova models, including the 55, 80, and 112lb thrust options.

In conclusion, the Terrova’s foot pedal and motor work in perfect harmony, ensuring a seamless and efficient fishing experience. With precise control and advanced technology, this trolling motor proves to be a reliable and valuable asset for anglers seeking exceptional performance on the water.

 

Terrova Pros and Cons

PROS

• i-Pilot in its entirety
• Lift Assist design
• Terrific foot pedal and control
• It’s a rugged motor
• Thrust options are compatible with a range of boat sizes
• Option for integrated sonar
• Quite running, stowing, and deploying
• Directional indicator and battery meter

 

CONS

• The motor is a little bulky and heavy

 

Product Comparison: Minn Kota Terrova and Alternatives

Minn Kota offers a range of top-notch trolling motors, and two models similar to the Terrova are the Minn Kota Ulterra and the MotorGuide X5. Let’s explore their key features and how they stack up against the Terrova:

Minn Kota Ulterra:

• Similar thrust options as the Terrova, excluding the 55lb option.
• Offers i-Pilot and i-Pilot link choices, along with integrated sonar capabilities.
• Features auto stow and deploy, power trim, and an integrated battery meter in the i-Pilot remote.
• Both the Ulterra and Terrova are high-performing motors with durable construction.

MotorGuide X5:

• Competes with the Terrova in sales and performance.
• Solid base mount made from high-grade material, similar to the Terrova.
• Utilizes digital variable speed control and boasts extreme sensitivity in control and speed settings with its foot pedal.
• All X5 models include a lighted directional indicator but lack a battery power indicator, unlike the Terrova.

While the X5 offers more model options, its highest thrust model is slightly lower than the Terrova’s. The Terrova, on the other hand, showcases ease of stowing and deploying, giving it a slight advantage in this aspect.

 

The Bottom Line:

For serious anglers, the Minn Kota Terrova is difficult to surpass. Its durability, precise direction and speed control, and cutting-edge i-Pilot software make it a top choice. Additionally, the lift assist technology simplifies stowing and deploying, ensuring a hassle-free experience on the water. With the Terrova, you get a trolling motor that delivers on all fronts and fulfills every angler’s requirements. Whether it’s exploring new fishing spots or navigating tricky waters, the Minn Kota Terrova stands as a reliable and indispensable companion for every angler’s adventure.