A user input assembly for controlling operation of a trolling motor assembly including a propulsion motor is provided herein. The user input assembly includes a support plate and a foot pedal defining a top surface that is configured to receive a user's foot thereon. The foot pedal is pivotably mounted to the support plate. A deflection sensor is in communication with the foot pedal and is configured to detect an angle of orientation of the foot pedal and output a signal corresponding with the angle of orientation of the foot pedal. The signal is receivable by a controller that is configured to control a direction of the propulsion motor of the trolling motor assembly. A feedback device is coupled with the foot pedal and configured to, in response to pivotal movement of the foot pedal about the first axis, provide a resistance force to the pivotal movement.