Whether you are chasing trophy fish or simply enjoying a day on the water, reliable marine electronics can make all the difference. At DJ’s Marine Electronics, two of the most trusted names we carry are Garmin and Minn Kota — leaders in GPS navigation and trolling motor technology. However, when choosing your gear, it is important to understand how these systems work — and more importantly, how they do not work together.
Let us break down what Garmin marine GPS and Minn Kota trolling motors offer, and how to make the right pairing for your setup.
Garmin Marine GPS: Precision and Power
Garmin is a go-to name in marine GPS for a reason. From their EchoMap and GPSMAP series to high-end sonar and radar networking, Garmin offers everything a boater could need for navigation, fish finding, and system integration.
Key features of Garmin marine GPS units include:
High-resolution chartplotters with touchscreen controls
CHIRP sonar, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning
Preloaded BlueChart or LakeVü maps
Networking capabilities for radar, autopilot, sonar modules, and trolling motors
Seamless integration with Garmin Force trolling motors
If you want an all-Garmin system — from your GPS screen to your trolling motor — the experience is smooth and highly connected. With this setup, you can control your motor, follow waypoints, and manage sonar all from a single device.
Minn Kota Trolling Motors: A Trusted Name, But with a Twist
Minn Kota is one of the most recognized names in trolling motors, particularly for freshwater anglers. Known for innovations like Spot-Lock, AutoPilot, and route recording, Minn Kota has led the way in hands-free fishing.
As of 2023, Minn Kota no longer uses the “i-Pilot” or “i-Pilot Link” branding. Instead, all GPS-equipped models now operate under the name Advanced GPS Trolling System. This new naming simplifies the product line but maintains all the advanced functionality users expect.
Core features of the Advanced GPS Trolling System include:
Spot-Lock (GPS anchor)
Route recording and retracing
Cruise control and heading lock
Remote control and optional foot pedal navigation
Minn Kota’s Advanced GPS Trolling System is designed to network only with Humminbird fish finders and GPS units. When paired with a Humminbird graph, you can unlock full integration — contour following, waypoint syncing, and full control from the screen.
Compatibility: Garmin GPS and Minn Kota Motors
Here’s where things often get misunderstood.
Minn Kota motors do NOT network with Garmin GPS units.
Garmin GPS units only network with Garmin Force trolling motors.
Minn Kota motors only network with Humminbird GPS/chartplotters.
Lowrance motors (Ghost) only network with Lowrance GPS/chartplotters.
That said, you can still use a Minn Kota trolling motor with any brand of fish finder or GPS, including Garmin. The trolling motor will operate as normal, but you will not be able to control it or share data through your Garmin screen. You will use the motor’s remote or foot pedal independently of your graph.
This setup works perfectly fine for many boaters — especially those who are not looking for a fully integrated system. But if you are aiming for networked features, like navigating to waypoints or using contour-based navigation, you will need to pair matching brands.
Choosing the Right Setup for Your Needs
If you are unsure how to choose between brands, ask yourself a few key questions:
Do I want to control my trolling motor from my GPS screen?
Am I planning to add radar, autopilot, or other networked devices?
Is high-end sonar imaging a priority for me?
What waters do I typically fish — inland, coastal, deep offshore?
If you want a seamless, fully integrated system with one-touch controls and device syncing, match your GPS and trolling motor brands:
Garmin GPS + Garmin trolling motor (Force)
Humminbird GPS + Minn Kota trolling motor
Lowrance GPS + Lowrance trolling motor (Ghost)
If you just want reliable equipment and don’t need advanced networking, mixing brands is completely acceptable — just be aware of what you’re giving up in terms of integration.
Let DJ’s Marine Electronics Help
At DJ’s Marine Electronics, we know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right marine electronics — especially with compatibility concerns. That is why we take the time to listen to your needs and guide you toward a setup that works for your boat, your fishing style, and your budget.
Whether you are shopping for a Garmin marine GPS, a Minn Kota trolling motor, or an entire integrated system, we have got you covered. Visit us online or stop by the shop, and let us help you get the most out of your time on the water.