If you’re equipping a trolling motor on a boat or RV, a reliable battery tray is essential for security, organization, and safety. This guide highlights five durable trays suited for Group 24, 27, and 29/31 batteries, helping you choose the right fit for your space and needs. The selections favor rugged, weather-resistant designs with secure straps or hold-downs. Best for boaters and campers who want quick installation, stable battery mounting, and improved cargo organization.
| Product | Series | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| A.A Automotive, Marine, Boat, RV Battery Tray – Group 27 | 27 Series | Compact trolling setups with secure strap |
| A.A Automotive, Marine, Boat, RV Battery Tray – Group 29/31 | 29/31 Series | Higher-capacity trolling or dual-battery layouts |
| NOCO BT31S Group 31 Heavy-Duty Tray | Group 31 | Rugged, high-load marine/RV installations |
| GGTE Group 24 Battery Tray | 24 Series | Universal fit for boats, cars, RVs with compact batteries |
| T-H Marine Narrow Battery Tray Holder | 29 & 31 | Space-saving installations in tight space boats |
A.A Battery Tray – Group 27 Series
Best for smaller trolling motor setups or where space is limited. This extreme-duty tray is made from high-impact polypropylene and includes a battery strap to secure the battery and limit movement. Choose this if you need a straightforward, durable mount for a Group 27 battery in a tight space.
Who it’s best for: boaters with a single Group 27 battery and limited mounting area. Why selected: compact, heavy-duty construction with an integrated strap for stability. Limitation: may not fit larger or dual-battery configurations without adjusting mounting space.
A.A Group 29/31 Battery Tray
Best for higher-capacity trolling motor setups or dual-battery configurations. This tray uses heavy polypropylene and includes a strap to secure larger batteries, reducing movement on rough water. Choose this if you run Group 29 or 31 batteries and need robust mounting.
Who it’s best for: boats needing more power with a secure hold. Why selected: supports larger batteries with a strong strap; potential limitation: may require more mounting space than smaller trays.
NOCO BT31S Group 31 Tray
A rugged option designed for marine, RV, camper, and trailer batteries. This tray features a heavy-duty 42-inch hold-down strap, capable of withstanding significant force, and is resistant to temperature extremes, contaminants, and UV exposure. Best for tough environments where battery security is critical.
Who it’s best for: operators needing a high-load, weather-resistant mount. Why selected: exceptional strap strength and chemical/UV resistance. Limitation: may be heavier and bulkier than minimalist trays.
GGTE Group 24 Battery Tray – 24 Series
Best for universal fit in vehicles, boats, and RVs requiring a compact 24-series tray. It uses high-strength plastic with adjustable buckles to secure the battery during rough seas or bumpy roads. Choose this if you need flexible mounting for a Group 24 battery in mixed vehicle types.
Who it’s best for: space-conscious setups with multiple mounting scenarios. Why selected: adjustable buckles improve positioning; limitation: designed for Group 24, not larger groups without adaptation.
T-H Marine Dual Holder Tray – 27 Series
Best for boats needing to hold two Group 27 batteries in tight spaces. This dual holder tray is designed to fit compact quarters and features a quick-release buckle for easy installation and removal. Choose this if you run two batteries in a narrow area.
Who it’s best for: dual-battery trolling setups in limited spaces. Why selected: efficient use of space with a simple quick-release system. Limitation: may require careful alignment with adjacent equipment to avoid interference.
A.A Group 24 Series Tray With Strap
Another option for Group 24 batteries with a rugged polypropylene body and included strap for secure mounting. Best for straightforward, durable mounting without complex adjustments. Choose this if you want a reliable, strap-secured tray for a mid-sized battery in a standard footprint.
Who it’s best for: users prioritizing simplicity and durability. Why selected: similar rugged construction with strap; limitation: lacks some advanced adjustment features found in other models.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Trolling Motor Battery Trays
- Battery size and compatibility: Verify that the tray supports your trolling motor battery group (24, 27, 29/31).
- Mounting space and footprint: Measure mounting area to ensure the tray fits without interfering with controls or storage.
- Securing method: Straps vs. hold-downs; consider the length and strength of straps for rough water or off-road use.
- Material and durability: Look for high-impact plastics that resist fuel, oil, acid, and UV exposure for marine environments.
- Temperature and chemical resistance: Especially important for boats exposed to sun, salt, and engine heat.
- Ease of installation: Recessed wells, quick-release buckles, and straightforward mounting hardware save time.
- Space optimization: Narrow trays are useful in tight compartments; dual-battery trays fit more power where space is limited.
- Regulatory and safety: Ensure the tray complies with relevant standards and provides secure battery retention to prevent movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size battery tray should I choose for a single trolling motor battery? Choose a Group 24 or 27 tray based on your battery size and space.
- Are strap-based trays more secure than hold-downs? Straps offer strong retention, but some setups benefit from both a strap and a fixed hold-down for maximum stability.
- Can I install a single-battery tray in a dual-battery boat? Yes, but you’ll need a tray that matches the battery size and enough space to prevent movement between packs.
- Do these trays resist saltwater exposure? Many are designed with UV resistance and chemical tolerance; verify the product specs for marine-grade materials.
- Is professional installation required? Not always, but ensure you follow mounting instructions and safety guidelines to avoid battery movement during use.
- What’s the benefit of a narrow tray? Narrow trays maximize space efficiency in tight compartments or custom installations without compromising security.