Best Recessed Trolling Motor Tray With Cup Holder for Boat Decks
Looking for a recessed trolling motor tray that keeps your foot pedal and cup within easy reach? This guide highlights five compatible trays designed to fit a wide range of trolling motors, with durable aluminum construction, UV-resistant coatings, and built-in drain holes. These options are ideal for boaters who value a clean deck, organized controls, and quick access to beverages while navigating. The selections prioritize versatility, sturdy materials, and installation practicality for anglers, tournament crews, and casual boaters alike. Below, compare key features, fit, and suitability to help you pick the best tray for your setup.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baldwin Iron Works Aluminum Recessed Tray (All Garmin/Lowrance/Minn Kota/Motor Guide/M Power-Pole) | Most motor brands | Powder-coated, drain hole with hose | Versatile fit |
| Baldwin Iron Works Ultrex Drilled Tray | Ultrex users | Dedicated Ultrex pedal fit | Powder coat finish |
| Baldwin Iron Works Tray (Tray Only, Minn Kota Drilled) | Minn Kota line | All aluminum construction | Drain hole included |
| UanofCn 100RTMP Tray | Lightweight builds | Powder-coated aluminum | Rust protection |
| Heurofosh Recessed Tray | Most brands, corded pedal | Detailed dimensions for fit | Sturdy aluminum |
Baldwin Iron Works Aluminum Recessed Tray (All Major Trolling Motors)
This aluminum recessed trolling motor tray is designed to accommodate a broad range of brands, including Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Garmin, Lowrance, and more. The tray features a black UV-resistant powder coating for weather resistance and a dedicated drain hole with a hose to manage spills and rainwater. Best for boaters seeking a universal fit without sacrificing durability, it suits anglers who rely on a compact, low-profile deck layout and want a reliable foundation for their foot pedal control. The tray’s all-aluminum construction ensures long-term corrosion resistance in salt or freshwater environments.
Who it’s best for: boat owners who want a single tray to cover multiple motor brands and models, especially touring anglers and weekend boaters who switch between different trolling motors. Why selected: broad compatibility and a practical drain solution simplify installation and maintenance. Caution: confirm your exact motor model compatibility, as “fit all” claims may vary with some Terrova or newer models. This tray emphasizes practicality over brand-specific optimization.
Baldwin Iron Works Ultrex Drilled Tray
This recessed tray is drilled specifically for Ultrex trolling motor pedals, delivering a tailored fit for that popular model. It uses a durable powder-coated black finish and includes a power hole for drainage, helping manage moisture on deck. Best for boaters who own an Ultrex and want a dedicated tray that sits flush with the deck, reducing deck clutter and improving pedal stability. Choose this if Ultrex-specific compatibility is a priority; avoid if you need a more universal fit that covers multiple brands. Installation should align with the pedal geometry to maintain level operation.
Baldwin Iron Works Recessed Tray (Tray Only, Minn Kota Drilled)
This tray is designed as a tray-only solution with all-aluminum construction and a black UV-resistant powder coat. It includes a drain hole with a hose and is predrilled for dependable installation. Best for boaters seeking a sturdy, lightweight tray compatible with Minn Kota motors (within the drilled configuration). It’s a straightforward upgrade for deck organization. Limitation: ensure the mounting holes align with your deck layout and verify compatibility with your exact Minn Kota model before purchase.
Baldwin Iron Works Minn Kota Drilled Tray (Graph Mount Included)
This recessed tray is drilled for Minn Kota trolling motors, with a powder-coated black finish and an integrated drain hole with hose. It’s positioned as a reliable option for Minn Kota enthusiasts who require a sturdy, corrosion-resistant tray that can withstand rugged water conditions. Best for anglers with Minn Kota setups who want a stable, deck-friendly pedal tray. Limitations: confirm that the specific Minn Kota model’s pedal footprint aligns with the drilled pattern to avoid misalignment or interference with other deck hardware.
UanofCn 100RTMP Trolling Motor Tray
The UanofCn tray features powder-coated aluminum with black UV resistance, offering rust protection and light weight. This tray is positioned for versatility across boat types, making it a solid choice for boaters seeking a balance between durability and ease of handling. Best for buyers prioritizing corrosion resistance and lighter weight without compromising load-bearing capability. Limitation: check the exact inner dimensions to ensure your pedal footprint fits cleanly and does not extend beyond the deck edge.
Heurofosh Recessed Tray For Most Brands
This tray is described for most brands with a corded foot pedal control and a robust aluminum build. The dimensions are clearly stated: outer flange 19.5 inches by 12 inches, inner area 17 by 9.75 inches, depth 4 inches. Best for boaters who want precise fit guidance and a universal approach to several motor brands. Choose this if your deck space is constrained by specific dimensions; avoid if your pedal control requires a different depth or additional clearance for hardware on the deck.
Buying Guide
What matters most when selecting a recessed trolling motor tray? Consider the following questions to refine your choice.
- Compatibility: Does the tray clearly list your trolling motor brand and model? Look for trays drilled or labeled for Minn Kota, Ultrex, or Garmin/Lowrance compatibility.
- Material and finish: Aluminum trays with powder-coated black UV-resistant finishes resist corrosion and fading in sun exposure and water splashes.
- Drain solution: A built-in drain hole with a hose helps manage rain and pedal moisture, preserving deck integrity and reducing slip risk.
- Dimensions: Check outer flange, inner mounting area, and depth to ensure a flush deck installation and unobstructed pedal operation.
- Weight and handling: Lighter trays are easier to install but ensure adequate rigidity for pedal control and accidental load.
- Installation: Some trays require predrilled mounting holes. Professional installation is recommended when dimensions are tight or complex deck layouts apply.
- Aesthetics and finish: A uniform black powder coat matches most decks and reduces glare while maintaining a clean look.
FAQ
- What is a recessed trolling motor tray? A recessed tray sits flush with the boat deck, providing a stable base for the foot pedal and optional accessories, with a drain for moisture control.
- Which brands are commonly supported? Many trays advertise compatibility with Minn Kota, Garmin, Lowrance, Motorguide, and Power-Pole trolling motors, but always verify your specific model.
- Why is a drain hole important? The drain helps remove water from rain or deck spills, improving safety and equipment longevity.
- Are these trays easy to install? Some trays are predrilled and designed for quick mounting, but professional installation is recommended for precise alignment with your deck.
- Can I swap trays between boats? Recessed trays vary by mounting hole pattern and dimensions, so swapping between boats requires checking fit and clearance.
- Do these trays affect pedal performance? A properly installed tray maintains pedal level, supports weight distribution, and reduces deck fatigue during long outings.