If you’re looking to add steady electric propulsion to a ski boat, kayak, or small craft with a flat stern, these trolling motor mounts are the right starting point. They’re designed for clamp-on electric motors up to about 3 HP, with corrosion-resistant materials and easy installation. This guide highlights five compatible options, suited for different boat styles and mounting needs. Read on to find the best fit for your vessel and conditions.
| Product | Best For | Mount Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| besttruck Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount | Flat stern boats and kayaks needing clamp-on electric motors | Transom mount | Up to 3 HP; stainless steel with nylon components |
| yernoiy Universal Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Transom Bracket | Flat-transom kayaks and small boats | Transom bracket | Up to 3 HP; anti-slip and corrosion-resistant |
| Pro Controll EZ Mount | Jon boats needing bow installation | Bow mount | No drilling required; fits under 3″ gunnels |
| Apaspoil Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount | Flat stern boats that need a versatile bolt pattern | Transom mount | Up to 3 HP; two bolt sizes for fit flexibility |
| Intex 68624EP Motor Mount Kit | Inflatable boats with rear mount fittings | Rear mount kit | Motors up to 3.0 HP; quick setup |
Besttruck Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount
Best for: flat-stern boats and kayaks that require a clamp-on electric trolling motor. This mount is compatible with motors up to 3 HP and uses stainless steel hardware with black nylon components for durability. The setup is designed to resist moisture and rain, extending life in challenging water conditions.
Why selected: It provides a universal fit for boats with a flat stern large enough for a power pole, combining strong materials with corrosion resistance. This makes it a solid choice for frequent freshwater use and light saltwater environments.
Caution: Not suitable for outboard engines of any size. Ensure the stern area is flat and large enough for the mount footprint before purchase.
Universal Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Transom Bracket
Best for: flat-transom kayaks and small boats requiring a stable, heavy-duty mount. It supports up to 3 HP and fits various flat stern configurations. The mounting bracket is designed to minimize slipping and withstand both freshwater and saltwater use.
Why selected: Its upgraded anti-slip design and UV-resistant nylon panels make it a durable choice for long trips. The combination of stainless hardware and corrosion resistance helps maintain performance in adverse conditions.
Caution: Not compatible with gasoline outboard motors. Verify your motor type and stern dimensions before ordering.
Pro Controll EZ Mount – Universal Trolling Motor Mount
Best for: Jon boats seeking bow installation without drilling. The EZ Mount II enables quick bow mounting on gunnels under 3″ wide, providing improved stability and precise control without tools.
Why selected: It allows a simple, tool-free transition of a trolling motor to the bow, which can improve steering responsiveness in small watercraft. The bow-mount capability expands maneuverability in tight spaces.
Caution: Works only with trolling motors using a thumb-type tilt-lever hinge bracket. Confirm fit with your motor’s mounting hardware before purchase.
Apaspoil Heavy-Duty Transom Mount
Best for: boats with flat sterns needing a robust, corrosion-resistant mount. It offers two bolt-pattern sizes (3.75″ and 4.75″) to fit common power pole vert patterns, providing flexibility for multiple craft.
Why selected: The 5mm marine-grade steel with powder coating delivers strong load bearing up to 3 HP or 70 pounds of thrust, making it a reliable choice for larger motors on smaller boats.
Caution: Not compatible with outboard engines of any size. Measure your stern and bolt pattern to ensure compatibility.
INTEX 68624EP Motor Mount Kit
Best for: inflatable boats with rear mount fittings that require a simple mounting solution for motors up to 3.0 HP. The kit includes a heavy-duty composite mount and aluminum support arms for durable use.
Why selected: The kit provides quick setup and disassembly, which is ideal for inflatable craft that require space-saving storage after use. It’s designed to stay secure during operation while remaining easy to remove.
Caution: The product notes indicate a specific inflatable lineup for compatibility; verify your boat model matches the kit’s rear mount fittings.
Buying Guide: What To Consider When Choosing a Ski Boat Trolling Motor Mount
- Boat type and stern design: Choose a mount that matches a flat stern or bow-on mounting for your craft. Transom mounts are common on kayaks and small boats, while bow mounts work well for Jon boats.
- Motor compatibility: Most options support electric trolling motors up to 3 HP. Confirm your motor’s horsepower, shaft length, and mounting pattern before buying.
- Material and durability: Stainless steel hardware and UV-resistant nylon or marine-grade steel improve corrosion resistance in saltwater and freshwater.
- Mounting pattern and fit: Some mounts offer dual bolt patterns or adjustable screw hole sizes. Ensure alignment with your stern’s bolt pattern and thickness.
- Ease of installation: Tool-free or minimal-tool installations are ideal for lightweight or inflatable boats. Check whether drilling is required for your chosen mount.
- Stability and anti-slip features: Look for anti-slip lips, reinforced locking mechanisms, and rigid brackets to prevent motor movement in chop.
- Disassembly and storage: If you use an inflatable or compact craft, consider mounts that disassemble or store easily when not in use.
FAQ
- Q: Can these mounts fit any trolling motor model? A: Most are designed for clamp-on electric trolling motors up to about 3 HP. Always verify the motor’s mounting thread pattern and shell width.
- Q: Are these mounts suitable for saltwater use? A: Several options use corrosion-resistant materials and nylon panels, which help resist saltwater exposure. Confirm material specs with the seller.
- Q: Do I need to drill into my boat to install these mounts? A: Some models advertise no-drill installation, while others may require drilling for a secure fit. Check product details and your boat’s construction.
- Q: What boats are best for a bow mount versus a transom mount? A: Bow mounts are common on jon boats and flat gunnel setups, offering better steering leverage; transom mounts work well on kayaks and flat sterns with enough surface area.
- Q: Can I use these mounts with gas-powered outboards? A: No. These mounts are designed for electric trolling motors only.
- Q: Are there limits to motor thrust with these mounts? A: Most mounts support up to 3 HP (approximately 70 pounds of thrust). Check the exact specification for each model.