Best Bass Boat Steering Console Options for Safe, Smooth Handling
If you’re upgrading a bass boat or converting a jon skiff, a robust steering console is essential for precise control on the water. This guide highlights five durable options that fit aluminum and fiberglass hulls, with clear notes on who each product is best for, plus practical considerations to help you compare.
The following quick reference table lists the five selected steering console solutions and who they’re best suited for. Use this as a snapshot to guide you before reading deeper into each product section.
| Product | Best For | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More | Mid-size Jon boats and skiffs needing a complete kit | Complete side console with durable poly construction |
| RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More | Low-profile setups on smaller boats | Low-profile design with sturdy poly construction |
| Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat | Medium to larger aluminum or fiberglass boats | Adjustable height and reinforced face for heavy components |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | Boats needing a trusted, standard steering mount | Established brand with simple mounting |
| RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small | Compact boats requiring a small, durable helm | Indestructible poly construction with cup holders |
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
This complete side console kit is designed for jon boats, skiffs, and similar vessels. The kit uses a heavy-duty poly construction comparable to top-tier coolers and kayaks. It comes in a clay color with options in white, black, tan, gray, and green.
Best for: Mid-size boats needing a full, ready-to-install console with durable exterior. This kit is better for boat owners who want a complete package rather than sourcing individual components.
Caution: Availability of color options may vary by retailer; verify current color choices before ordering. The description emphasizes poly durability, but it does not specify mounting compatibility with every hull type.
RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
This is a low-profile side console kit designed for smaller jon boats and skiffs. Built from tough poly material, it mirrors the durability of higher-end options while maintaining a compact footprint. Color choices align with the broader line for consistency on multi-boat fleets.
Best for: Boat owners needing a space-saving console that still delivers rugged durability. Not ideal for very large consoles or those needing extensive electronics mounting.
Caution: The kit’s low-profile design may limit space for larger depth finders or additional gauges. Confirm your mounting depth and crew placement before purchase.
Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face
This mounting system uses an aluminum alloy construction with an adjustable height feature and a plywood-reinforced face tailored for steering wheel mounting. It fits most aluminum or fiberglass boats and provides a flat top ideal for depth finders or displays.
Best for: Owners who want a sturdy, adjustable mount with a secure surface for electronics. The plywood face helps distribute load, which is beneficial for heavier steering setups.
Caution: Some installation steps may require precise alignment and drilling. Ensure compatibility with your depth finder and gauges before mounting.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
From a well-known marine supplier, this steering console mount provides a straightforward option for mounting and alignment. The description highlights its SCM2DP model code, indicating a standard mounting solution compatible with many boats.
Best for: Buyers seeking a reliable, uncomplicated mount from a trusted brand. It’s suitable for boats where a simple, compatible mount suffices. Avoid this if you need advanced height adjustment or integrated electronics mounting.
RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small
This compact steering helm targets small vessels such as RIBs and skiffs. It uses indestructible rotationally molded poly construction designed to resist cracking, yellowing, and chipping, mirroring the material strength used in premium coolers and kayaks.
Best for: Small boats needing a durable yet space-efficient console with cup holders and a robust construction. Choose this if handling a tight cockpit or limited deck space. Limitation: Its compact size may limit space for larger instruments or extensive wiring.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Bass Boat Steering Console
What should you prioritize when selecting a steering console? Consider hull compatibility, mounting method, space for electronics, and durability. Also assess how easy it is to install and whether the console supports depth finders, gauges, and steering controls you already own.
Compatibility and mounting
- Ensure the console kit or mount fits your hull material (aluminum vs. fiberglass) and boat size.
- Check whether the kit includes all required mounting hardware or if additional brackets are needed.
Durability and material
- Poly construction offers impact resistance and longevity, similar to premium coolers and kayaks.
- Aluminum mounts provide strength with lighter weight but may require more careful handling during installation.
Electronics and depth finder readiness
- Look for a flat top or ample surface for mounting depth finders and instrument clusters.
- Confirm whether the design supports side-mount or binnacle controls and how cable routing is handled.
Size and cockpit space
- Low-profile consoles save cockpit space but may limit mounting options for larger devices.
- Compact consoles are ideal for smaller boats; larger consoles suit bigger pontoons or skiffs.
Color and aesthetics
- Color options like clay, white, black, tan, gray, and green help match your boat’s look and reduce visible wear.
- Consistent colors across multiple components simplify resale value and fleet uniformity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of boat is best for a side console kit? Best for jon boats and skiffs that need a complete, integrated steering setup with a side-mounted helm.
- Can I install a steering console on a fiberglass boat? Yes, provided the mount and hardware are compatible with fiberglass hulls and the mounting surface is solid.
- Is a low-profile console suitable for electronics? It depends; low-profile designs save space but may limit room for large depth finders or multiple displays.
- Do these consoles require professional installation? Some installations are straightforward, but complex setups with electronics may benefit from professional mounting and wiring.
- Are these products suitable for all weather conditions? The poly and aluminum materials offer durability, but ensure proper sealing around any electrical components to prevent moisture intrusion.
- What should I compare besides price? Look at material durability, mounting versatility, supported electronics, and available color options to match your boat’s aesthetics and needs.