Find the right trolling motor side mount to boost stability and maneuverability on your Jon boat, kayak, or small craft. This guide highlights five reliable options, explaining who each is best for and why. Typical buyers include weekend anglers seeking easy, tool-free installation, kayakers needing quick-removal designs, and small-boat users requiring universal fit. The table below briefly contrasts core options to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Controll EZ Mount | Bow-mounted Jon boats | No drilling, universal fit under 3″ gunnel |
| Sunluway Kayak Trolling Motor Mount | Most kayaks | Adjustable, universal fit, easy installation |
| Toolixor Universal 90° Bracket | Small boats and kayaks | 90° rotation, quick removal |
| Bzumperyz Aluminum Deck Mount | Clamp-on electric motors | 36 lb thrust cap, easy clamp-on |
| Apaspoil Universal Transom Mount | Flat stern boats | Two bolt sizes, durable steel build |
Pro Controll EZ Mount – Universal Trolling Motor Mount
Features: Universal Fit – Securely fits most Jon or utility boats with gunnels under 3″ wide and 1″ deep. Bow Mount in Minutes – Easily mount your trolling motor to the bow with no drilling or tools required. Fish Like a Pro – Take control of your boat’s movement with improved stability and precision.
Best for. This mount is ideal for boaters who want a quick, tool-free bow installation on Jon boats with slim gunnels. It emphasizes simplicity and a secure fit without altering hulls.
Caution. Limited to gunnels under 3″ wide; larger or reinforced gunnels may require alternative mounting.
Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit – Topfurn
Features: Premium Quality Material – Stabilized reinforced plastic, stainless steel fasteners, and aluminum rails for longevity in fresh and salt water. Installation Tips – No drilling required to insert the trolling motor mount into holes or onto rails. Fitting Tip – Compatible with most gear and rail systems; fits most kayaks with twin rod holders or rails.
Best for. Kayakers seeking a robust, rail-compatible platform that doesn’t require boat-specific holes. This option suits longer trips where a durable, rail-based mount adds stability.
Caution. Not compatible with recessed fishing rod holders that drop down in the kayak.
Universal 90 Degree Adjustable Trolling Motor Bracket – Toolixor
Features: Universal Clamp-On Motor Fit – Designed to securely hold most clamp-on electric trolling motors for small boats, kayaks, and canoes with flat sterns. Marine-Grade Build – Corrosion-resistant aluminum and tough nylon with oxidized finish. Easy On & Off with 90° Rotation – Rotates for flexible positioning and quick removal when trailering or engine power is used.
Best for. Small boat operators and kayakers who want flexible positioning with quick removal and a robust, corrosion-resistant build.
Caution. Not suitable for outboard engines; limited to clamp-on electric trolling motors up to typical small-motor thrust.
Bzumperyz Aluminum Clamp-On Deck Mount
Features: Function – Mounts clamp-on trolling motors and enables easy installation with quick removal for security or deck clearance when trailering. Fitment – Universally fits clamp-on electric trolling motors; suited for flat stern surfaces on boats like canoes and jon boats. Tip – Only suitable for motors up to 36 pounds thrust.
Best for. Anglers and casual boaters who want a simple, secure clamp-on solution for lightweight electric trolling motors on small craft.
Caution. The 36 lb thrust limit may be a constraint for higher-powered trolling motors.
FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket
Features: Durable Build – Thick aluminum alloy crossbar with marine-grade track and nylon materials. Wide Compatibility – Designed for most standard canoes and supports 2–5 HP trolling motors. Adjustable C Clamp – Sliding slots allow secure, flexible clamp positioning on varying canoe widths.
Best for. Canoe owners and anglers who need a sturdy, adjustable crossbar system compatible with mid-range trolling motors.
Caution. Designed primarily for canoes; check hull width and motor weight before purchasing.
Pactrade Marine Trolling Motor Rack
Features: Sliding Mechanism – Durable aluminum rail and nylon bracket with a trolling motor mounting bracket that inserts into scupper holes or rails. No drilling required. Universal fit with gear and rail systems. UV-stabilized plastics and stainless steel fasteners for fresh and saltwater use.
Best for. Those using small to mid-sized boats with track or scupper hole mounting options, seeking a universal, drill-free setup.
Caution. Requires compatible track or scupper integration; verify boat compatibility before purchase.
Apaspoil Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount
Features: Unique Bolt Pattern – Two bolt-hole sizes (3.75″ and 4.75″) with combinations available, designed to fit standard micro power pole patterns. Material – Marine-grade steel with powder-coated finish; includes UV-resistant nylon panels. Load – Supports motors up to 3 horsepower or 70 pounds thrust. Universal fit for electric trolling motors only.
Best for. Boat owners who need a heavy-duty, steel transom mount with versatile bolt patterns for electric trolling motors on flat sterns.
Caution. Not compatible with outboard engines and heavier motor setups beyond the stated thrust.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Boat type and mounting surface: Choose a mount that fits your gunnel width, stern surface, or deck configuration (flat, rail-ready, scupper-ready).
- Motor compatibility and thrust: Verify the mount supports your trolling motor’s weight and thrust; some mounts cap at 36 lb or 60 lb thrust, others handle higher power.
- Installation requirements: Look for tool-free or minimal-drill installation if you want quick setup and removal.
- Material and durability: Marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel are common for saltwater use; steel mounts offer added strength but require corrosion resistance care.
- Adjustability and rotation: 90-degree rotation or quick-release designs aid positioning and storage; consider whether you need horizontal, vertical, or rotary adjustment.
- Portability and storage: Quick-release or detachable mounts are beneficial for trailering and storage space.
FAQ
- What is a trolling motor side mount best used for?
Side mounts are used to mount trolling motors on the side or bow of boats, offering improved steering control and stability for small craft and kayaks.
- Do these mounts require drilling?
Many options listed are drill-free or require minimal hardware, but some mounting surfaces may still need holes or rail attachment depending on design.
- Can I use a clamp-on mount on a kayak?
Yes, several mounts are designed specifically for clamp-on motors on kayaks, providing adjustable fit and easy removal.
- What should I consider when choosing thrust capacity?
Match the motor’s thrust with the mount’s load rating and your boat’s weight and use case to ensure safe operation.
- Are universal mounts compatible with different brands?
Most universal mounts fit a wide range of motors, but always verify compatibility with your motor’s shaft size, bolt pattern, and rail compatibility.
- Is maintenance required for these mounts?
Regular checks for corrosion, loose bolts, and wear on rails or clamps will extend the life of the mount in freshwater or saltwater environments.