Best Side Console Solutions for Aluminum Boats: Top Mounts for Easy Upgrades
Answering buyers who want to add or upgrade a side console on an aluminum boat, these selections focus on durability, ease of install, and flexible mounting options. The top picks are best for anglers seeking clutter-free layouts, compact steering, and space for electronics. Ideal buyers include DIY boat owners, saltwater or freshwater anglers, and those upgrading older vessels for better control and visibility.
| Product | Brand | Why It Fits |
|---|---|---|
| SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount | SFriding | Rigid aluminum mount with plywood reinforcement; adjustable height; flat top for depth finders. |
| Aluminum Side Console Mount (Fish Finder Switch Panel Bracket) | Alpha Rider | Side gunwale mounting to maximize deck space; universal fit; driller’s precision for alignment. |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | T-H Marine | Welded, strong aluminum construction; adjustable height; designed for most aluminum or fiberglass boats. |
| Honsary Aluminum Boat Side Console Panel Mount | Honsary | Extra-wide mounting face; corrosion-resistant marine-grade aluminum; broad compatibility. |
| REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit | REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT | Complete low-profile kit; sturdy poly construction; multiple color options. |
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
The SFriding steering console mount offers a dedicated aluminum alloy frame with a plywood-reinforced face for wheel mounting and a flat top suitable for depth finders. This option is best for boaters who want a solid, fixed mounting surface that can support electronics and steering hardware with minimal flex. The adjustable height feature helps accommodate different helm seating heights and lines of sight, improving ergonomics during long runs. Use this when you need a sturdy, all-in-one helm upgrade that remains robust in saltwater or freshwater environments.
Best for: anglers and boat owners who prioritize a rigid, high-strength mount with a reinforced wheel mounting surface. Choose this if you value a flat top for electronics and precise depth finder placement.
Caution: Installation requires careful alignment of the mounting face to avoid misalignment of the steering wheel and controls. Ensure your boat’s gunwale supports are adequate to bear the load.
Aluminum Side Console Mount For Boat Fish Finder Switch Panel Bracket
This side console mount attaches to the gunwale, keeping the helm area open for casting and movement. It’s designed to hold fish finders, GPS units, and switch panels, with a universal fit for pontoon, offshore, and fishing boats. The kit intentionally requires drilling to align with your specific gunwale structure, which helps ensure a square, secure installation tailored to your boat’s reinforcement points. This makes it a versatile choice for custom layouts.
Best for: boaters who want to preserve deck space and customize mounting positions to match their electronics landscape. Prefer this if you’re comfortable with a drill-in installation to achieve a precise fit.
Caution: Drill accuracy is crucial. Inadequate alignment can lead to misfit panels or mounting instability over time.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit (Jon Boat, Gray)
The RPD 1422 Side Console Kit provides a complete, low-profile solution with a durable poly construction. It’s designed to deliver a compact helm layout suitable for jon boats and skiffs, offering a clean, integrated look with multiple color options. This kit is best for builders seeking a ready-to-install console system with a consistent aesthetic and dependable construction for small to mid-sized vessels.
Best for: owners who want a complete kit that minimizes installation time while delivering a cohesive, professional look. Choose this if you prefer a purpose-built kit rather than piecing together individual components.
Caution: The kit’s poly construction is sturdy, but users should verify panel spacing and hardware compatibility with their specific boat model before purchase.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
The T-H Marine mount is designed for broad compatibility with most aluminum or fiberglass boats. Its adjustable height design ranges from 16″ to 26″, with extra space under the console from 10″ to 20″. This flexibility makes it suitable for various seating heights and pilot positions, while the robust .090″-thick aluminum welded construction provides lasting strength. Best for buyers who need a versatile, high-strength mounting solution that can adapt to different boat configurations.
Best for: boat owners seeking a highly adaptable, durable steering console mount that can be retrofitted to many boat types without custom fabrication. A smart pick when you anticipate changing helm positions or electronics layouts over time.
Caution: Although adjustable, frequent height changes may require periodic re-tightening to maintain the desired alignment and stability.
Honsary Aluminum Boat Side Console Panel Mount
The Honsary mounting panel emphasizes an extra-wide mounting face with a 25mm mounting edge and a face that is 30mm wider and 20mm longer than standard brackets. This generous surface area supports larger switch panels, VHF radios, USB ports, and fish finders in one consolidated location. Built with marine-grade aluminum and a protective coating, it resists corrosion in saltwater and UV exposure. Best for anglers who want a single, expansive electronics hub and a robust, long-lasting mount.
Best for: boaters needing extra space and a universal-fit solution that can handle multiple devices on a single panel. Choose this if you expect to consolidate several electronics into one easily accessible area.
Caution: The larger face means it may require a bit more cockpit clearance; check your deck layout to avoid crowding other helm controls.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Side Console Mount
What boat size and type should guide your choice?
Larger aluminum boats may benefit from fuller, welded mounts with added height range. Smaller jon boats or day-fishing craft often perform better with compact, low-profile side consoles. Consider deck space, gunwale thickness, and reinforcement points when evaluating universal-fit designs.
What mounting surface and hardware are required?
Some mounts rely on drilled installation for a perfect alignment, while others come with pre-welded surfaces. If your gunwale lacks solid reinforcement, look for mounts designed to distribute load across a broader area. Ensure hardware compatibility with your electronics and control panels.
How important is adjustability?
Adjustable height and under-console clearance help accommodate different seating positions and electronics depths. If you plan to upgrade electronics, a flat top surface for depth finders or GPS units can be a decisive advantage.
What about corrosion resistance and maintenance?
Marine-grade aluminum with protective coatings resists salt, UV exposure, and moisture. Regular inspection of mounting brackets and fasteners helps prevent corrosion-related failures on exposed edges and welds.
Is a complete kit better than piecing together components?
Complete kits, like the RPD Side Console Kits, offer a cohesive aesthetic and faster install, minimizing compatibility concerns. Stand-alone mounts provide more customization but can require extra planning to ensure a clean fit and reliable mounting points.
Installation considerations and safety
Follow manufacturer instructions for drilling patterns, racking, and torque specifications. Confirm that mounting hardware does not interfere with steering cables, control rods, or battery access. Test fit all components after partial assembly before final tightening.
FAQ
- What is a side console mount best for on an aluminum boat? It provides a dedicated steering and electronics hub that frees deck space and can improve reach and visibility while piloting the boat.
- Do these mounts require drilling? Some models require drilling to align with your gunwale, while others come with integrated fittings. Always check the installation guide for specifics.
- Will a side console fit my small jon boat? Yes, many side consoles are designed for universal mounting on jon boats and similar vessels, but verify weight capacity and reinforcement points before purchase.
- Can I mount a depth finder and VHF on the same panel? Several mounts offer extra-wide faces to support multiple devices. Ensure the panel width and depth accommodate all devices with proper clearance.
- Is adjustable height important for helm comfort? Absolutely. Adjustable consoles help tailor the helm for different seating heights, improving ergonomics and safety while underway.
- What maintenance should I perform on these mounts? Regularly inspect for corrosion, loose fasteners, and any flex in the mounting surface. Re-tighten and reseal as needed to maintain integrity.