A trolling motor assembly having improved shock absorption is provided. The trolling motor assembly includes a trolling motor, a first member, a second member, an actuator that is configured to be activated to cause the trolling motor to move between a first position and a second position, and a compliant member connected to the actuator. When the trolling motor is in a first position, the first member dampens shock loading at the actuator or transfers shock loading to a first shock absorber to dampen shock loading. When the trolling motor is in a second position, the second member dampens shock loading at the actuator or transfers shock loading to at least one of the first shock absorber or a second shock absorber to dampen shock loading. The compliant member dampens shock loading to protect the actuator from shock loading as the trolling motor moves between the first and second position.