Best Jon Boat Steering Console Upgrades for Small Watercraft
Answering the common buyer question: which steering console upgrade fits a jon boat best? This guide highlights five practical options tailored for small boats, skiffs, and similar craft. Each pick focuses on durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with common side-mount or binnacle controls. The top choices are ideal for anglers, weekend cruisers, and hobbyists who want a sturdier, more organized helm without extensive customization. A quick summary table is provided to compare core traits at a glance.
| Product | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, White | Small steering console | Compact setups needing durable, all-in-one helm |
| REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green | Small steering console | RIBs or skiffs needing rugged, moisture-friendly color match |
| REVOLUTION RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat | Low-profile side console kit | Jon boats needing a full side-console upgrade |
| REVOLUTION RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat | Side console kit | Medium jon boats requiring robust poly construction |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | Adjustable steering console mount | Broad compatibility with aluminum or fiberglass boats |
REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
The REVOLUTION RPD 1019 is a compact steering console designed to upgrade RIBs, skiffs, or small boats. It features a stainless steel grab rail and cup holders that accommodate side-mount or binnacle controls. Built from ultra-durable rotationally molded poly, this console is designed to resist cracking, yellowing, and chipping. The color options include OD Green, with availability in White, Black, Tan, Gray, and Green.
Best for: small, rugged boats needing a space-efficient helm with sturdy construction. Why selected: its combination of impact resistance and compatibility with common controls simplifies installation on limited deck space.
Limitations: Some users may prefer a larger console for multiple gauges or deeper storage. Its compact size is ideal for minimalist layouts.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount for Boats
This adjustable steering console mount fits most aluminum or fiberglass boats, offering a straightforward way to add a helm where a console is not yet installed. The height adapts from 16″ to 26″, with an adaptable under-console space from 10″ to 20″. Constructed from 0.090″-thick aluminum, it emphasizes dependable strength for marine use.
Best for: boats needing a flexible, upgrade-friendly mounting option. Why selected: its wide compatibility and adjustable height help accommodate various boat layouts. Limitations: mount installation requires precise alignment and may necessitate additional hardware for certain hulls.
REVOLUTION RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat
The RPD 1422 Side Console Kit delivers a complete, low-profile side console upgrade for jon boats and skiffs. It employs a rugged poly construction akin to high-end coolers and kayaks, with color options including Clay, White, Black, Tan, Gray, and Green. This kit is designed to provide a sturdy helm with integrated space for a depth finder or similar device on the flat top.
Best for: boaters seeking a full side-console solution on jon boats. Why selected: it provides a ready-to-install package with strong poly materials for long-term durability. Limitations: larger depth-finder installations may require additional mounting solutions.
REVOLUTION RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat
This side console kit is built to endure with super tough poly construction, matching the “top of the line” cooler and kayak materials. Like the other REVOLUTION options, it comes in Clay and is also offered in White, Black, Tan, Gray, and Green. It provides a compact, robust helm option for jon boats and skiffs that need more cockpit control without compromising deck space.
Best for: mid-sized jon boats needing a durable, integrated console. Why selected: combines heavy-duty poly with a compact form factor and color versatility. Limitations: assembly may require precise alignment with existing steering hardware and gauges.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for a Jon Boat Steering Console
What matters most when choosing a steering console for a jon boat? Here are practical factors to compare:
- Size and fit: Measure deck area and cockpit depth to select a console that doesn’t crowd steering, seating, or rod storage.
- Mounting compatibility: Confirm whether your hull is aluminum or fiberglass and whether a side-console kit or a standalone console suits your layout.
- Material durability: Poly construction offers impact resistance and moisture resilience; avoid materials that may crack or warp in sun and splash.
- Control compatibility: Ensure the console supports side-mount or binnacle controls you already own or plan to install.
- Adjustability: If standing or sitting, an adjustable height or mount may improve comfort and visibility.
- Color and aesthetics: Choose a color that matches your boat’s trim and reduces glare or staining near the cockpit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main advantage of a side console kit for a jon boat? – It provides a complete helm upgrade without modifying the hull, often offering durable materials and compact profiles.
- Do I need special tools to install these consoles? – Installation usually requires basic hand tools; some kits may need additional mounting hardware depending on the boat.
- Will these consoles fit my existing steering wheel and cables? – Most kits are designed for common steering components, but verify compatibility with your current setup before purchasing.
- Are poly consoles weather-resistant? – Yes, rotationally molded poly construction is typically resistant to cracking, yellowing, and chipping in marine environments.
- Can I use a depth finder on these consoles? – Some models provide flat tops or mounting surfaces suitable for depth finders; check each product’s top dimensions and mounting options.
- Which option is best for a very small jon boat? – The compact REVOLUTION RPD 1019 White or OD Green versions are ideal for tight cockpits needing a sturdy helm.