I've been testing marine equipment for over 15 years, and when Garmin released their Force Trolling Motor in 2019, it genuinely changed the game. This wasn't just another trolling motor—it was Garmin's first entry into the propulsion market, and they knocked it outta the park right away. The Force quickly established itself as a serious contender in the premium trolling motor segment, even winning the Best of Show award at ICAST 2019.
What makes the Garmin Force Trolling Motor 50" Shaft stand out isn't just its fancy features but how it combines Garmin's electronic expertise with truly thoughtful design. Priced at around $3,549.99, it's definitely not cheap. But for serious anglers who need reliable performance in tough conditions, this investment delivers real advantages over traditional options.
During my time with the Force, what impressed me most wasn't just the specs on paper but how it performed when I really needed it—holding position perfectly in strong currents where other motors struggled, running all day without killing my batteries, and controlling my boat with near-telepathic precision. Let's break down exactly what makes this motor worth considering.
Key Takeaways
- The Garmin Force is the most powerful trolling motor on the market, offering superior thrust at 24V compared to competitors' 36V systems
- Features whisper-quiet operation with minimal vibration due to its brushless motor technology
- Includes innovative gesture-steering via a waterproof, floating remote control
- Offers integrated GPS with spot lock (anchor lock) that holds position better than competitors in challenging conditions
- Provides seamless integration with Garmin's marine ecosystem including chartplotters and sonar/fish-finding systems
- Available in multiple shaft lengths (48"-90") to accommodate various boat sizes
- Premium pricing ($3,100-$3,900) reflects advanced features and superior performance
- 3-year standard warranty with limited lifetime warranty on the shaft
Design and Construction Features
The build quality of the Garmin Force trolling motor is honestly impressive. I remember unboxing mine and noticing right away that it felt different from other motors I'd used before. There weren't any loose parts rattling around, and everything felt solid and purposeful.
One standout feature is the dual gas spring deployment system. If you've ever struggled to raise or lower a trolling motor (especially after a long day of fishing), you'll appreciate how smooth and effortless this makes the process. I can deploy or stow the motor with just one hand, which is super helpful when I'm trying to manage other things at the same time.
The Force comes in multiple shaft length options to fit different boats:
| Shaft Length | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 50" | Small to medium-sized boats | $3,549.99 |
| 57" | Medium-sized boats | $3,649.99 |
| 63" | Medium to larger boats | $3,699.99-$3,899.99 |
| 75" | Larger boats with higher freeboards | $3,899.99 |
| 90" | Extremely high bow boats | Custom pricing |
I opted for the Garmin Force Trolling Motor 57" Shaft for my 21-foot bass boat, which provides perfect clearance in most water conditions while still allowing proper submersion in choppy waters.
The motor includes a stabilization bar that helps with stability when mounted to the bow. I did have to trim mine slightly to get a perfect fit on my boat, but the improvement in stability was worth the small modification. Some users have mentioned that the wire management system could be better—the cables loop around the shaft rather than using coiled cables—but this hasn't caused me any issues in practice.
Another small design quirk is the placement of the shaft adjustment knob on the bottom of the mount rather than the top. This makes height adjustments slightly less convenient, especially if you need to make changes while on the water. However, once you find your ideal setting, you rarely need to adjust it anyway.
The handle ergonomics deserve special mention—it fits naturally in your hand and provides intuitive control. The motor also features smart button placement for functions like heading lock and spot lock, with a clever feature that lets you disable these buttons by tapping them six times, preventing accidental activation.
Power and Performance Analysis
The Garmin Force's power performance is where this trolling motor truly separates itself from the competition. Powered by a high-efficiency brushless motor, it delivers remarkable thrust while using significantly less energy than traditional brushed motors found in many competing products.
During my testing in tough conditions, I noticed the Force could maintain position in strong currents at just 30-40% power, while my previous Minn Kota Ultrex required maximum power and still struggled. This power advantage is especially noticeable when fishing in areas with strong tidal flows or windy conditions.
What makes this really impressive is that the Force delivers equivalent thrust at 24V compared to competitors' 36V systems. This gives you two valuable options:
- Run your system at 24V (using fewer batteries) while still getting excellent performance
- Install a 36V configuration for absolute maximum power in the most challenging conditions
Here's a quick comparison of power systems:
| Configuration | Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24V (2 batteries) | Lighter weight, more storage space, lower cost | Most fishing situations, smaller boats |
| 36V (3 batteries) | Maximum power, longer run time | Tournament anglers, larger boats, extreme conditions |
The whisper-quiet operation is another major performance advantage. The first time I used the Force, I actually checked several times to make sure it was running because it was so quiet compared to my old motor. This quietness isn't just about angler comfort—it's a real advantage when fishing for spooky species in shallow water where motor noise can send fish scattering.
The absence of the typical vibration you get with conventional trolling motors also makes long days on the water less fatiguing. I've noticed I'm less tired after a full day of fishing with the Force compared to other motors I've used in the past.
Battery efficiency is another standout feature. I've managed to fish all day in strong winds with spot lock engaged while making only minimal impact on my battery levels. For anglers who've experienced the panic of watching battery levels drop rapidly while miles from the boat ramp, this efficiency provides real peace of mind.
Control Systems and User Interface
The Garmin Force's control system is incredibly well thought out, with a dual-control approach that gives you options based on your fishing style. The wireless foot pedal offers responsive control that feels natural if you're used to traditional cable-steered pedals. I've found it to be more precise than other electronic steering pedals I've used.
The foot pedal runs on standard AA batteries, though you can hardwire it if preferred. Battery life has been excellent in my experience—I'm still on my original set after nearly a full season of use. The pedal's design provides intuitive speed and directional control, with a comfortable action that doesn't fatigue your foot during long days on the water.
But the Garmin Handheld Remote For Force Motors is what really sets this system apart. This waterproof, floating remote features a sunlight-readable display that stays visible even in the brightest conditions. What makes this remote special is the gesture-steering capability—you simply point the remote in the direction you want to go, and the motor follows. It feels incredibly intuitive, almost like you're directly controlling the boat with your hand movements.
The remote allows total control from anywhere on the boat. I've found this particularly useful when fishing the stern or when I need to move around the boat to manage different fishing situations. The ability to control the motor without being tethered to the bow is a game-changer for versatility.
For anglers who prefer traditional foot control, the Garmin Foot Pedal For Force Motors provides a familiar and reliable interface. The pedal is well-built and responsive, with intuitive controls that make maneuvering your boat feel natural and precise.
Integration with Garmin chartplotters via wireless connectivity further expands the motor's functionality. This allows for seamless navigation between waypoints and automated route following. I've set up my system to connect with my GPSMAP unit, creating a unified ecosystem that lets me mark a spot on my chartplotter and have the Force take me directly to it with minimal input required.
The user interface includes programmable buttons on the remote that can be customized to control various functions. This adaptability means you can set up the controls to match your specific preferences and fishing style. While there is a brief adjustment period when transitioning from other trolling motor systems, particularly from cable-steered units, most anglers (myself included) find that the learning curve is short and well worth the improved capabilities.
Advanced Navigation and Positioning Features
The GPS-based positioning capabilities of the Garmin Force Trolling Motor have completely changed how I approach fishing specific spots. The integrated GPS module and heading sensor enable remarkably precise position control, regardless of wind, current, or other factors that would normally push a boat off course.
The anchor lock (spot lock) function holds position with incredible accuracy. During a recent trip, I was fishing a submerged ledge in strong current, and the Force kept me positioned within about 3 feet of my target spot for over two hours. This kind of precision is invaluable when you're trying to work a specific piece of structure or stay on a school of fish.
The built-in autopilot system provides several automated navigation options:
- Heading Hold: Maintains a consistent direction regardless of crosswinds or currents
- Cruise Control: Maintains a steady speed—perfect for trolling where consistent presentation is critical
- Route Following: Automatically navigates along predetermined paths created on compatible Garmin chartplotters
I've found the route following feature particularly useful for systematically covering fishing areas. I can create a route that follows a contour line or covers a flat, and the Force will navigate that path precisely while I focus on fishing. This has significantly increased my efficiency on the water.
The accuracy and responsiveness of these positioning features represent a significant advantage in real-world fishing scenarios. I've been especially impressed with how the Force performs compared to my previous Minn Kota Ultrex. In one memorable case, I was fishing a deep channel edge in heavy current. The Force held position at about 35% power, while my fishing partner's Ultrex was maxed out and still struggling to maintain position.
This precise positioning directly translates to improved fishing success. When vertical jigging over structure or fishing along productive edges, being able to stay exactly where you need to be makes a huge difference in catch rates. I've noticed a meaningful improvement in my ability to stay on fish since switching to the Force.
The system also handles transitions between navigation modes seamlessly. You can switch from spot lock to heading hold to manual control instantly, without the hesitation or recalibration that I've experienced with other GPS-enabled trolling motors.
Sonar and Fish-Finding Integration
One of the most impressive aspects of the Garmin Force is its comprehensive integration of advanced sonar technology. The trolling motor incorporates an integrated transducer that supports CHIRP traditional sonar alongside Ultra High-Definition ClearVu and SideVu scanning sonar.
Having this built-in sonar capability eliminates the need for separate transducer installations, which reduces clutter on the boat and simplifies the overall setup. What's particularly impressive is how Garmin has engineered the system to deliver minimal sonar noise interference—a common problem with motor-mounted transducers that can suffer from electrical noise generated by the motor itself.
The cable management system protects the built-in transducer cables and also accommodates additional accessories, including Garmin's premium Panoptix and Panoptix LiveScope sonar systems. This expandability is crucial for anglers who want to upgrade their fish-finding capabilities without requiring extensive rewiring or modifications.
The Garmin GT56uhd-tr Transducer is specifically designed to work seamlessly with the Force trolling motor, providing exceptional imaging quality that helps you locate and stay on fish more effectively.
When connected to compatible Garmin chartplotters, the Force creates a seamless ecosystem of marine electronics. Sonar data, navigation information, and motor controls are all accessible through a unified interface. This integration exemplifies Garmin's advantage as a company that produces both trolling motors and marine electronics, allowing for a level of system cohesion that can be difficult to achieve with components from multiple manufacturers.
In practical fishing situations, this integration pays real dividends. I can mark a promising structure on my chartplotter, navigate to it precisely with the Force, and then use the integrated sonar to confirm fish presence—all without switching between different systems or dealing with compatibility issues.
It's worth noting that while the Force offers full sonar support for Garmin's GPSMAP 8400/8600xsv and ECHOMAP Ultra models, it provides only partial support for some other models. This highlights the importance of checking compatibility when integrating with existing electronics.
For those upgrading from other systems, the unified Garmin experience provides a level of simplicity and functionality that makes the learning curve well worth it. The ability to control both your navigation and fish-finding from a single interface streamlines the entire fishing process.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the Garmin Force to other premium trolling motors like the Minn Kota Ultrex and Lowrance Ghost, several key differences become apparent. Having used both the Force and the Ultrex extensively, I can share some real-world insights into how they stack up.
The most significant advantage of the Force is its brushless motor technology. This design delivers superior power efficiency compared to the Ultrex's more traditional motor design. In practical terms, this means longer run times and better performance in challenging conditions. I've noticed the Force can run at lower power settings while achieving the same results as the Ultrex at higher settings, which translates to better battery life throughout the day.
Here's a comparison table highlighting key differences:
| Feature | Garmin Force | Minn Kota Ultrex | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushed | Force - More efficient, quieter |
| Control Options | Foot pedal and gesture remote | Foot pedal and remote | Force - Gesture steering is more intuitive |
| GPS Anchor | Spot Lock | Spot Lock | Force - More precise in testing |
| Sonar Integration | Built-in CHIRP, SideVu, ClearVu | Built-in MEGA 360 | Depends on ecosystem (Garmin vs. Humminbird) |
| Voltage | 24V/36V | 24V/36V | Force - Better performance at 24V |
| Quiet Operation | Extremely quiet | Moderate noise | Force - Noticeably quieter |
| Price Range | $3,100-$3,900 | $2,800-$3,500 | Ultrex - Slightly lower cost |
The Force's gesture-steering capability represents a significant innovation absent from the Ultrex. This intuitive control method simplifies navigation, especially for anglers new to electronic steering systems. I've found it particularly useful when fishing alone, as I can control the motor from anywhere in the boat.
The fully waterproof and floating remote control of the Force offers practical advantages over the Ultrex's control system, particularly in wet conditions. I've actually dropped my Force remote in the water twice, and it continued to work perfectly after I retrieved it—something I wouldn't want to test with most other remotes.
While the Ultrex does offer valuable features like lift-assist, power-steering, and spot-lock, the Force matches or exceeds these capabilities in most cases. The one area where some anglers prefer the Ultrex is its cable-steer feel foot pedal, which some traditionalists find more familiar. However, after a short adjustment period, most users find the Force's controls to be more versatile.
In terms of power efficiency, multiple sources confirm that the Force at 24V delivers comparable or superior thrust to competing 36V systems. This offers significant advantages in battery consumption that translate to longer fishing days without recharging.
The quieter operation of the Force also receives consistent mention as an advantage over competitors, with noticeably reduced vibration compared to other premium trolling motors. This can be a significant factor when targeting noise-sensitive species in shallow water.
While the price points between the Force and its main competitors are comparable, the additional features and performance advantages of the Force appear to offer superior value for anglers willing to invest in premium equipment. That said, if you're already heavily invested in a Humminbird ecosystem, the Ultrex might make more sense for seamless integration.
Accessories and Maintenance
Keeping your Garmin Force Trolling Motor performing at its best requires the right accessories and proper maintenance. Based on my experience, here are some essential accessories and maintenance tips that will help extend the life of your investment.
Essential Accessories
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Power Management: The Garmin 70a Power Receptacle For Force Trolling Motors ($37.99) and Garmin 70a Power Plug For Force Trolling Motors ($37.99) are crucial for proper power connection and quick disconnection when needed.
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Circuit Protection: The Garmin 60a Circuit Breaker For Force Trolling Motors ($66.49) provides essential protection for your electrical system and is highly recommended.
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Replacement Propeller: The Garmin Weedless Prop For Force Motors ($66.49) is perfect for fishing in vegetation-heavy areas and makes a great backup to have on hand.
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Stabilizer Bar: The Garmin Stabilizer For Force Motors ($56.99) helps reduce unwanted movement and provides additional mounting support.
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Replacement Skeg: The Garmin Black Skeg For Force Motors ($23.74) is an inexpensive part to keep as a spare, as skegs can be damaged when navigating shallow areas.
Maintenance Tips
From my experience maintaining my Force over the past few years, here are some key maintenance practices that have helped me avoid issues:
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Regular Cleaning: After each use, especially in saltwater, rinse the entire unit with fresh water. Pay special attention to the prop, shaft, and mount areas where salt and debris can accumulate.
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Battery Maintenance: Keep your batteries properly charged and maintained. Using a quality marine battery charger with maintenance mode will extend battery life and ensure consistent performance.
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Prop Inspection: Regularly check the prop for fishing line, weeds, or debris that might have become wrapped around the shaft. Even small amounts of line can damage seals if left unchecked.
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Cable Inspection: Periodically inspect all cables for wear, especially at connection points and where the cables might rub against the mount or boat. Address any issues before they lead to failure.
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Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the motor in the deployed position to reduce stress on the gas springs. If storing during winter, disconnect from batteries and keep in a climate-controlled environment if possible.
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Lubrication: Apply marine-grade grease to the composite shaft occasionally to ensure smooth deployment and stowing. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt and debris.
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Software Updates: Periodically check for firmware updates through the Garmin website or connected devices. These updates often improve functionality and fix minor issues.
One maintenance advantage of the Force's brushless motor design is that there are no brushes to wear out or replace, which eliminates one of the most common maintenance requirements of traditional trolling motors.
In my experience, following these maintenance practices has kept my Force performing like new, even after multiple seasons of regular use in challenging conditions. The durability of this motor has been impressive, with no significant issues despite heavy use in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
FAQs about the Garmin Force Trolling Motor
Is the Garmin Force compatible with non-Garmin chartplotters and fish finders?
The Garmin Force works as a standalone trolling motor with any boat setup. However, to utilize the full integration features like route following and waypoint navigation, you'll need a compatible Garmin chartplotter. Basic functions like spot lock and manual control work without any Garmin electronics.
Can I run the Garmin Force on a 24V system, or do I need 36V?
The Garmin Force can run on either 24V or 36V. Unlike some competitors that require 36V for optimal performance, the Force delivers excellent performance even at 24V. The 36V option provides additional power and longer run time but isn't necessary for most fishing situations.
How does the battery life compare to other trolling motors?
The Force's brushless motor is significantly more efficient than traditional brushed motors. In my experience, you can expect approximately 30-40% longer run times on the same battery capacity compared to brushed motor competitors. This is especially noticeable when using features like spot lock in challenging conditions.
Is the Garmin Force suitable for saltwater use?
Yes, the Garmin Force is designed for both freshwater and saltwater use. The components are corrosion-resistant, and the sealed brushless motor design is well-suited for saltwater environments. Just be sure to rinse it with fresh water after saltwater use as part of regular maintenance.
How difficult is installation compared to other trolling motors?
Installation difficulty is comparable to other bow-mount trolling motors. The process involves mounting the base to the bow, connecting power cables, and potentially routing transducer cables to your fish finder. The Garmin Force includes detailed installation instructions, and most experienced anglers can complete the installation in 2-3 hours.
What's the warranty coverage for the Garmin Force?
Garmin offers a 3-year consumer limited warranty on the Force trolling motor, covering defects in materials or workmanship. Additionally, the composite shaft has a limited lifetime warranty. This is on par with or better than the warranty coverage offered by competitors.
Does the remote control require batteries, and how long do they last?
Yes, the handheld remote uses rechargeable batteries. In my experience, a full charge typically lasts 30-40 hours of active use. The remote comes with a USB charging cable, making it easy to recharge between fishing trips or even from portable power banks while on the water.
Can I add Panoptix LiveScope to my Garmin Force trolling motor?
Yes, the Garmin Force is designed to work seamlessly with Panoptix and Panoptix LiveScope systems. The motor includes cable management features specifically designed to accommodate these advanced sonar systems, making integration straightforward.
How does the Force handle weedy conditions?
The Force performs exceptionally well in weedy conditions, especially when equipped with the optional weedless prop. The motor's power helps it push through vegetation, and the prop design minimizes weeds getting caught or wrapped around the propeller.
Is the Garmin Force quieter than competitors like Minn Kota and Motorguide?
Yes, the brushless motor design of the Force results in significantly quieter operation compared to traditional brushed motors found in many competing products. Users consistently report that the Force is the quietest trolling motor they've used, which can be a significant advantage when fishing for spooky fish in shallow or clear water.
