Minn Kota 1358561 Riptide Instinct Quest Trolling Motor Buying Guide

Published on Saturday, May 10, 2025

Who It’s For

The Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest is built for serious anglers who fish in large bodies of water, especially in saltwater environments like coastal bays or offshore areas. It’s perfect for those with larger boats, thanks to its 72-inch shaft and 90/115 lb. thrust, who need a trolling motor that offers precise control, durability, and advanced navigation. If you’re a casual angler with a small boat or stick to calm, inland waters, this motor’s extensive features might be more than you need. But for dedicated fishermen who love tech-driven fishing and integration with marine electronics, this is a top pick.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at what makes the Riptide Instinct Quest shine and where it might not fit:

  • Pros:
    • Advanced GPS Trolling System with Spot-Lock and Jog for pinpoint positioning
    • Auto Stow & Deploy for effortless operation
    • Power Trim adjusts easily to changing conditions
    • Advanced Corrosion Protection for saltwater durability
    • One-Boat Network connects with Humminbird fish finders
    • Drift Mode handles wind and current automatically
    • Real-time Battery Monitoring optimizes power usage
    • Digital Maximizer extends battery life up to five times

  • Cons:
    • May be overkill for casual anglers or smaller boats
    • Requires compatible batteries and possibly extra equipment
    • High-end features may come with a premium setup cost

Key Features

The Riptide Instinct Quest is loaded with features that make it a standout:

  • QUEST Series Brushless Motor: A 24/36V dual-voltage motor redesigned for power and efficiency with updated mounts, propellers, and software.
  • Advanced GPS Trolling System: Industry-leading GPS for setting Spot-Lock, recording paths, and controlling speed and steering via a wireless remote with a clear LCD screen.
  • Auto Stow & Deploy: Stow or deploy the motor with one button press on the remote, foot pedal, One-Boat Network App, or Humminbird fish finder.
  • Power Trim: Adjust motor depth on the fly using multiple control options.
  • One-Boat Network: Syncs with select Humminbird fish finders to control the motor, shallow water anchor, and fish finder via a mobile app.
  • Spot-Lock with Jog: Locks your boat in place with GPS accuracy and lets you move five feet in any direction.
  • Drift Mode: Automatically adjusts speed and course in wind or current, no manual tweaks needed.
  • Real-time Battery Monitoring: Shows battery levels and “time until empty,” with an Eco Mode alert at 20% power.
  • Digital Maximizer: Delivers only the power you need, stretching battery life significantly.
  • Advanced Corrosion Protection: Grit-blasted, aluminum-coated, and powder-painted for saltwater resilience.
  • Indestructible Composite Shaft: Lifetime-guaranteed to withstand tough conditions.
  • Mobile App Compatibility: Control features through the One-Boat Network App.
  • 3-Year Warranty: Offers solid peace of mind.

Performance

The Instinct Quest is all about enhancing your fishing with precision and efficiency. The Advanced GPS Trolling System lets you lock onto fish-rich spots with Spot-Lock or follow recorded paths, making it easier to stay on target. Drift Mode keeps you in control during strong winds or currents without constant adjustments. The Digital Maximizer and Real-time Battery Monitoring ensure you can fish all day by optimizing power usage. For those who use fish finders, the One-Boat Network streamlines your setup, letting you manage multiple devices effortlessly. This motor is a high-performance tool for serious anglers.

Design and Build

Built for durability, the Instinct Quest is ready for harsh marine environments. Its Advanced Corrosion Protection—grit-blasting, aluminum coating, and powder coat paint—makes it ideal for saltwater. The Indestructible Composite Shaft, guaranteed for life, handles impacts and stress without fail. The motor’s reinforced mount and updated propeller boost stability and efficiency, while the brushless motor minimizes wear for long-term reliability. Available in black or white, its sleek look fits larger boats, and the 72-inch shaft suits deeper waters.

Ease of Use

Minn Kota made the Instinct Quest user-friendly. Auto Stow & Deploy saves effort by handling the motor with a button press. Power Trim lets you adjust depth quickly via the wireless remote, foot pedal, app, or fish finder. The wireless remote’s LCD screen is easy to navigate, showing GPS functions and battery status clearly. Drift Mode and Spot-Lock automate navigation, so you can focus on fishing. The mobile app adds convenience for tech-savvy users, making this motor accessible even for those new to advanced systems.

Before You Buy

A few things to consider:

  • Boat Size: The 72-inch shaft and high thrust are best for larger boats in deep or rough waters.
  • Battery Needs: Requires 24V/36V batteries, which may add to setup costs if you don’t have them.
  • Extra Equipment: Full functionality, like One-Boat Network, needs a compatible Humminbird fish finder.
  • Learning Curve: Advanced features may take time to master for new users.

Final Thoughts

The Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest is a top-tier trolling motor for anglers who want the best in performance, durability, and technology. Its GPS navigation, automated features, and saltwater-ready design make it a game-changer for tough environments. While it might be more than casual anglers need, its integration and long-lasting build make it a great fit for larger boats. If you’re ready to take your fishing to the next level with precision and ease, this motor is a fantastic choice.