Best Jon Boat Trolling Motor Bracket Options for Bow or Stern Use
Answering your search for reliable trolling motor brackets for jon boats, these five options stand out for bow or stern mounting, quick installation, and durable construction. The best choice depends on your boat’s gunnel width, whether you need quick removal, and whether you prefer bow or transom mounting. This guide helps you compare fit, material quality, and ease of use to match your fishing setup.
Summary table of selected products:
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Controll EZ Mount – Universal | Bow mounting on Jon boats | No drilling; quick bow install | Bow-only guidance; gunnel width under 3″ |
| Pro Controll EZ Mount II Bow Mount | Bow mounting on flat bows | Fast setup; converts transom to bow | Requires compatible hinge bracket |
| motoparty Adjustable Mount | Jon boats with narrow bows | Height adjustability; solid aluminum | Assembly required; hardware not included |
| besttruck Universal Transom Mount | Flat stern mounts | Universal fit; up to 3 HP | Sturdiness varies by boat surface |
| yernoiy Universal Kayak Mount | Flat stern kayaks/boats | Anti-slip, corrosion resistant | Not for gasoline outboards |
Pro Controll EZ Mount – Universal Trolling Motor Mount
The EZ Mount is designed to fit Jon or utility boats with gunnels under 3″ wide and 1″ deep, enabling bow mounting with no drilling. This bracket aims to give precise control and stability for forward thrust. Best for anglers who want a quick, drill-free bow setup on narrow-gunnel jon boats.
- Best for: bow mounting on small jon boats
- Why selected: easy installation without tools, solid stability
Caution: compatibility is limited to gunnel dimensions under the specified width. If your bow profile is thicker, this bracket may not fit securely.
Universal 90 Degree Adjustable Bracket for Clamp-On Motors
This bracket is built for clamp-on electric trolling motors on small boats, kayaks, and canoes with flat stern surfaces. It uses corrosion-resistant marine aluminum and nylon, with a 90° rotation for flexible positioning. Best for lightweight setups where quick removal is helpful.
- Best for: small flat-stern boats and kayaks
- Why selected: easy on/off rotation aids in trailer storage
Limitation: supports up to 36 lbs thrust, which may not suit larger motors on bigger boats.
motoparty Adjustable Trolling Motor Mount
Designed for Jon boats and aluminum vessels, this heavy-duty aluminum bracket offers adjustable height to optimize motor depth for efficiency and cavitation control. Best for boats with narrow bow profiles needing a stable, long-lasting mount.
- Best for: Jon boats with narrow bows
- Why selected: adjustable depth improves motor efficiency
Limitation: installation may require separate mounting hardware, and fit depends on boat geometry.
Boating Accessories New Trolling Motor Bracket Jif Marine
This transom-mount bracket uses aluminum for durability in freshwater and saltwater. It is versatile for trolling motor mounting on small boats, fishing vessels, and general navigation. Best for practical, straightforward mounting with quick setup.
- Best for: transom mounting on small boats
- Why selected: durable aluminum build, simple installation
Limitation: may not suit boats with non-standard transom shapes; confirm mounting hole alignment.
Pro Controll EZ Mount II Bow Mount
The EZ Mount II is designed to convert a transom bracket to a bow setup, replacing the motor’s original mounting bracket. It aims for a quick, tool-free bow installation in minutes, using a hinge-based approach. Best for boats needing quick bow conversions.
- Best for: quick bow conversion on compatible trolling motors
- Why selected: fast setup for bow mounting
Caution: requires hinge-bracket compatibility and proper alignment with the bow gunwale.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
What mounting location do you prefer—bow or transom? Bow mounts offer precise steering and weight distribution for front navigation, while transom mounts tend to be easier to install and remove.
Gunnel and stern surface compatibility is critical. Confirm width, depth, and material to ensure a secure fit for your jon boat.
Motor weight and thrust rating matter. Choose a bracket that supports the motor’s horsepower and thrust to avoid flexing or instability on plane.
Material quality and corrosion resistance are essential for longevity in freshwater and saltwater environments. Marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel hardware extend bracket life.
Ease of installation and removal affects convenience, especially for seasonal use or transport. Consider whether the bracket requires drilling or complex assembly.
Compatibility with your trolling motor type matters. Clamp-on vs. shaft-mounted motors may require different brackets or adapters.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I mount a trolling motor bracket on any jon boat? A: Most clamps and brackets specify gunnel width or stern surface requirements. Check measurements before buying.
- Q: Are these brackets suitable for saltwater use? A: Many options use corrosion-resistant aluminum or stainless components, but confirm saltwater suitability with product specs.
- Q: Do I need tools to install these brackets? A: Several models are drill-free or tool-free for bow mounting, but some may require basic hand tools for secure attachment.
- Q: Can I switch from bow to transom mounting? A: Some brackets enable dual configurations, while others are designed for a single mounting location. Verify compatibility first.
- Q: What motor weight should I match to the bracket? A: Choose brackets rated for the motor’s pounds of thrust to avoid instability or excessive flex.
- Q: Do these brackets affect boat warranty? A: Some mounting methods may influence warranties; check your boat’s warranty terms before installation.