Best Jon Boat With Steering Console Kits for Easy Handling
When you search for a jon boat with a steering console, you want a setup that is durable, easy to install, and clearly improves control on the water. This guide highlights five top console kits and steering mounts designed for jon boats and skiffs, showing who each option is best for and where to avoid potential issues. The top picks cover compact, low-profile consoles, rugged poly construction, and simple mounting hardware to help you decide what fits your boat size, cockpit space, and steering preferences.
Buyer overview table
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| RPD 1422 Side Console Kit | Side Console Kit | Compact jon boats needing a low-profile console | Clay color option; poly construction |
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit | Side Console Kit | Mid-sized jon boats seeking sturdy, stylish console | Multiple color options; durable poly build |
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit (Duplicate) | Side Console Kit | Similar to above for wider or longer hulls | Same materials and color range |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | Steering Console Mount | Boats needing reliable aftermarket steering mount | Simple mounting hardware |
| RPD 1422 Side Console Kit (Variant) | Side Console Kit | Small to mid-size jon boats replacing older consoles | Low-profile design; clay color option |
RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
The RPD 1422 Side Console Kit provides a complete, low-profile boat side console with rugged poly construction. It is designed to fit jon boats and skiffs while presenting a compact silhouette that helps maximize cockpit space. Best for small-to-mid sized boats needing a sturdy, unobtrusive steering option. Consider this if you want a uniform clay color with other color options available (White, Black, Tan, Gray, Green).
Best for: boaters who prioritize a low-profile appearance and durable, lightweight construction on compact hulls.
Caution: Verify fitment with your boat’s width and interior rails before installation to ensure clearances around seating and cleats.
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
This 1822 Side Console Kit features a complete front-facing console with the same durable poly construction as other RPD kits. It suits mid-sized jon boats and skiffs that need a more visible helm and integrated control space. Best for owners upgrading to a more prominent steering position without heavy fabrications. It’s available in Clay and other colors to match your boat’s scheme.
Best for: boaters upgrading from a bare console or adding a feature-rich helm area on larger jon boats.
Caution: The kit’s deeper profile may reduce legroom in tight cockpits; measure available space before purchasing.
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More (Variant)
This variant similarly provides a complete boat side console kit built from tough poly materials. The emphasis remains on a clean, low-profile look while ensuring durability for harsh marine environments. Best for boats that need a cohesive color and sturdy construction with easy mounting options.
Best for: owners seeking a durable, uniform console package with consistent aesthetics across components.
Caution: As with other poly kits, ensure hardware compatibility with existing rails and seating before purchase.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
The T-H Marine Steering Console Mount is a dedicated mounting solution for steering consoles, offering a robust base and reliable compatibility with various helm setups. Best for boats that require a straightforward mount rather than a full console kit. Choose this if you want a modular approach that lets you pair a basic helm with a separate console and gauges.
Best for: owners who want a dependable steering mount with flexible mounting options; easy to retrofit with existing instrument panels.
Caution: This mount may require additional hardware or adapters to fit non-T-H helm components; confirm compatibility with your specific helm model.
RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More (Variant)
This variant of the RPD 1422 kit continues to offer a complete, low-profile side console with tough poly construction and color options. It remains a strong choice for small-to-mid-sized jon boats needing a clean helm without bulk. Best for boaters who want consistency with clay-colored components or matching color schemes across the cockpit.
Best for: boats where a compact, aesthetically consistent console package is desired.
Caution: As with other poly kits, confirm that interior clearance and seating arrangement allow full console operation before installation.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for a Jon Boat Steering Console
- What type of console fits your hull? Decide between full side console kits and simple mounting hardware based on space and intended use.
- Material durability matters. Poly construction is common for corrosion resistance and wear in marine environments, but check for UV stability and color options to match your boat.
- Profile and space. Low-profile consoles maximize cockpit room but may limit gauge size; measure your cockpit and seating layout before choosing a kit.
- Color and aesthetics. If you care about matching existing boat colors, options like Clay, White, Black, Tan, Gray, and Green can help achieve a cohesive look.
- Ease of installation. Some kits include all mounting hardware and requires minimal drilling; others may need additional brackets or adapters for different brands.
- Compatibility with steering systems. For upgrading steering, ensure the mount or console is compatible with your steering shaft, helm seat, and throttle control arrangement.
- Future upgrades. Consider whether you want a modular approach (mounts plus separate console) to allow future gauge upgrades or accessory additions.
FAQ
- What is the main benefit of a side console kit for a jon boat?
A side console kit provides a compact, integrated steering helm that preserves cockpit space and offers a clean, ergonomic control area for smaller boats.
- Can I install a steering console on any jon boat?
Most kits are designed for typical jon boat dimensions, but you should measure cockpit width, seating, and clearance to confirm fitment and avoid conflicts.
- Is poly construction enough for durability?
Poly can be highly durable and impact-resistant while remaining light. Check UV resistance and color options to ensure long-term appearance and performance.
- What should I check besides the kit contents?
Verify hardware compatibility with your existing steering components, gauges, and throttle linkage; assess whether additional brackets or adapters are required.
- Is a dedicated steering mount better than a full console kit?
It depends on your needs; mounts are simpler and modular, while full kits provide a ready-to-install helm area with integrated components.
- How do I avoid installation issues?
Plan layout, check space for legroom, confirm door or hatch clearances, and follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions to ensure solid fastening.