Best Trolling Motor Quick Release Brackets for Easy Removal and Deck Clearance
Reliable quick release brackets make trolling motors easy to remove and reattach, freeing deck space for casting and storing gear. This guide highlights five compatible options, focusing on who they’re best for and why they stand out. Ideal buyers include anglers who frequently fly-fish or require secure theft deterrence, boat owners needing clean decks, and saltwater users seeking corrosion resistance. Below is a quick comparison of top picks to help you choose quickly.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sunluway MKA-21 Quick Release Bracket (1854021) | Ulterra/Terrova Pontoon & Deckhand 40 owners | Low-profile, theft deterrence via padlock hole |
| Sunluway RTA-17 Quick Release Bracket (1854017) | Riptide Ulterra/Terrova PowerDrive users | Secure locking, easy removal |
| SixCow MKA-16-03 Quick Release Bracket (1854035) | Ulltera/Terrova PowerDrive Pontoon | All-metal, saltwater capable, robust build |
| SixCow RTA-17 Quick Release Bracket (1854017) | Terrova/Ullterra with varied mounts | Quiet, secure locking, low profile |
| E-cowlboy MKA-23 Quick Release Bracket | Ultrex/Fortrex/Maxxum/Edge series | Corrosion-resistant composite, easy removal |
Sunluway MKA-21 Quick Release Bracket 1854021
Designed for Minn Kota Ulterra, Terrova, PowerDrive, PowerDrive V2, Pontoon, and Deckhand 40 trolling motors, this bracket supports standard and scissor bow mounts. It replaces OEM MKA-21/1854021 parts. Best for boaters who want a low-profile deck with a secure locking pin and theft deterrence via an optional padlock.
Best for: anglers who fly-fish from the boat and need a quick, tool-free removal. This bracket helps keep the deck clear when the motor is removed and offers a stainless steel pin locking system for security. Limitations include compatibility notes on shaft length and thrust rating.
Caution: Not recommended for motors with shafts 72” or larger or 112lb thrust models.
Sunluway MKA-17 Quick Release Bracket 1854017
Specially built for Minn Kota Ulterra, Terrova, Riptide ST, Riptide SP, PowerDrive, PowerDrive V2, and Deckhand 40 motors. Suitable for standard or scissor bow mounts. This is a replacement for Minn Kota Quick Release Bracket RTA-17/1854017. Best for: boaters who prioritize a quick, tool-free removal and a low-profile deck footprint for casting paths.
Note: Do not use with shafts 72” or larger or 112lb thrust motors. Theft deterrence is supported by a lock-ready design with stainless pins.
SixCow MKA-16-03 Quick Release Bracket 1854035
Compatibility covers Ulterra, Terrova, PowerDrive, PowerDrive V2, PowerDrive Pontoon, and DeckHand 40. It suits standard and scissor mounts. This bracket uses an extruded aluminum design with a side screw for quiet, secure locking and a low profile. Best for: saltwater and freshwater users who want a sturdy, corrosion-resistant option. Limitation: not compatible with shafts 72” or longer or 112lb thrust models.
Advantage: low-profile base leaves the deck clear when removed, and the locking pin accepts a padlock for theft deterrence.
SixCow MKA-21 Quick Release Bracket 1854021
Precision compatible with Ulterra, Terrova, Riptide ST/SP, PowerDrive, PowerDrive V2, Pontoon and DeckHand 40. Works with standard and scissor mounts. It is a replacement for Minn Kota MKA-21/1854021 and features a low-profile base with a stainless steel locking pin and optional padlock hole to deter theft.
Best for: anglers seeking a straightforward replacement that integrates with multiple Minn Kota models. Caution: not suitable for 72” shafts or 112lb thrust motors.
C Q Chang QI MKA-21 Quick Release Bracket
Universal compatibility for Minn Kota models including Terrova, Ulterra, Deckhand 40, PowerDrive, PowerDrive V2, Pontoon, and Riptide options. It supports standard and scissor mounts and includes a low-profile design with a locking mechanism and padlock hole.
Best for: users seeking a durable marine-grade option with corrosion resistance. Limitation: not compatible with shafts 72” or longer or 112lb thrust motors.
E-cowlboy MKA-23 Quick Release Bracket
Designed for Ultrex, Fortrex, Maxxum, and Edge trolling motors. Not suitable for motors over 80 lbs thrust or 60” shafts. It uses a high-yield composite construction, corrosion resistance, and a low-profile top bracket.
Best for: saltwater or freshwater anglers using Ultrex/Maxxum families who want corrosion resistance and easy deck access. Caution: ensure compatibility with your motor’s thrust and shaft length.
Buying Guide
- Compatibility: Verify the bracket matches your trolling motor model and shaft length. Many brackets list 72” shafts and 112lb thrust as incompatible.
- Mount Type: Choose between standard and scissor bow mounts based on your boat’s deck design and fishing style.
- Locking Mechanism: Look for a locking pin and the option to add a padlock for theft deterrence and motor security.
- Deck Footprint: A low-profile design helps keep the deck clear and reduces tripping hazards during access or casting.
- Materials: Marine-grade aluminum or high-yield composites offer corrosion resistance for saltwater use and long-term durability.
- Ease of Use: Tool-free quick release features save time during transport, storage, and when switching between trolling motor and casting positions.
- Replacement Availability: If you own a Minn Kota model, selecting a bracket that serves as an OEM replacement can simplify compatibility and spare parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a trolling motor quick release bracket?
It is a mounting bracket that allows you to quickly detach and reattach a trolling motor from your boat deck without tools.
- Why choose a low-profile bracket?
A low-profile design keeps the deck clear, reducing interference with casting and movement on the boat.
- Are these brackets suitable for saltwater?
Many brackets use marine-grade aluminum or corrosion-resistant composites, but always confirm suitability for saltwater and applying proper maintenance.
- Can I lock my motor to the boat with these brackets?
Several brackets include a hole for a padlock to deter theft, protecting the motor when left unattended.
- Do all brackets fit every Minn Kota model?
Not all brackets fit every model. Check the exact OEM part numbers and shaft length limits before purchasing.
- What if my shaft is longer than 72 inches?
Most listed brackets are not compatible with shafts 72” or longer. Look for models that explicitly state shaft length compatibility.