Best Jon Boats With Center Console: Top Kits and Accessories for 2026
If you’re equipping a jon boat with a center console, these kits and accessories are designed to give you a sturdy, weather-ready helm. The best options are tailored for small workboats and skiffs, offering durable construction, easy installation, and practical layouts for steering, electronics, and storage. This guide highlights five strong picks, ideal for fishing, hunting, or utility use, and explains who benefits most from each choice.
Summary of chosen products at a glance:
- — Best for full-featured consoles on mid-sized jon boats; gray or green variants available.
- — Best for low-profile setups on compact jon boats; available in gray or green.
- — Best for budget-friendly, rugged jon-fishing setups; khaki/beige color.
- — Best for adding a universal steering console with depth finder mounting capability.
- — Best for center console boats needing shade, durability, and extra protection.
REVOLUTION RPD 1822 Side Console Kit — Gray
Best for mid-sized jon boats needing a complete, rugged side console. This kit uses a super-tough poly construction similar to top-tier coolers and kayaks, delivering a stable, protective helm area. The gray color matches common boat tones and the kit is described as complete for quick installation. Best for boaters who want a durable, all-in-one console with a modern look.
Who it’s best for: boaters seeking a full, ready-to-install side console with heavy-duty materials for fishing, utility, or hunting setups on jon boats around 18 feet or less.
Limitation: Availability in colors other than gray is noted; consider color consistency with your hull before purchase.
REVOLUTION RPD 1422 Side Console Kit — Gray
Best for compact jon boats needing a low-profile console with easy handling. The kit is described as complete and low profile, built with the same tough poly construction as premium models. The gray color provides a neutral look to suit most hulls.
Who it’s best for: boaters who want a slim, unobtrusive helm setup without sacrificing durability or weather protection on smaller jon boats.
Limitation: Color variety is present in product line, but this specific listing emphasizes gray; verify color availability if you need alternatives.
REVOLUTION RPD 1822 Side Console Kit — Green
Best for boaters who prefer a bold green accent on a full-featured console. Like its gray sibling, this kit is described as complete with a high-strength poly build. The green option helps match or highlight certain hull colors for a distinctive look.
Who it’s best for: anglers or utility users who want a standout color choice without compromising on durability or installation ease.
Limitation: Availability of color options varies by listing; confirm current color stock before ordering.
REVOLUTION RPD 1422 Side Console Kit — Green
Best for low-profile, color-matched needs on smaller jon boats. This green version follows the same design ethos as the gray variant, offering a complete, durable console that’s easy to install and maintain.
Who it’s best for: boaters who want a compact, reliable console that blends with greens or mossy hull tones without adding height or bulk.
Limitation: Lower-profile designs may limit some mounting options for larger electronics; verify mounting space first.
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
Best for upgrading an aluminum or fiberglass boat with a dedicated steering console mount. The mount is described as aluminum alloy with adjustable height and a plywood-reinforced face for steering wheel mounting, offering stability and strength for helm electronics and depth finder setups.
Who it’s best for: boat owners who want a sturdy, adjustable steering point that supports heavier instrumentation and a secure mounting surface.
Limitation: Installation may require additional hardware or marine-grade fittings; verify compatibility with your boat’s layout and electronics.
Oceansouth Classic T-Top for Center Consoles
Best for center console boats needing shade, protection, and added mounting options. This T-Top uses a heavy-duty marine aluminum frame with Atlas canopy fabric to resist UV and water exposure. It is designed to fit a wide range of center console layouts and provides a durable upgrade for long days on the water.
Who it’s best for: boaters who want sun protection and additional gear mounting space for longer trips or coastal use.
Limitation: Larger footprint may affect garage storage or trailer space; confirm clearance and mounting points before purchase.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Jon Boats With Center Consoles
- Boat size and layout: Match console size and mounting options to your jon boat length, beam, and existing transom configuration. Smaller boats benefit from low-profile consoles, while mid-sized boats can handle full-featured side consoles.
- Material and durability: Look for high-strength poly construction or marine-grade aluminum. This ensures weather resistance, impact tolerance, and long-term performance in salt or freshwater.
- Color and styling: Choose colors that complement your hull and offer good visibility. Some kits offer multiple color options; consider how color affects resale value and aesthetics.
- Mounting and integration: Ensure the kit includes necessary mounting hardware, or verify compatibility with depth finders, radars, and gauges. A plywood-reinforced face on mounts adds rigidity for steering wheels.
- Protection and usability: T-Tops and canopies provide shade and protection from sun and rain. Consider canopy fabric durability and UV resistance for your typical boating environment.
- Installation effort: Some kits are described as complete with minimal assembly, while others may require more custom fitting. Assess your DIY comfort and available tools.
- Budget versus features: Full-console kits offer more features and protection but may come at a higher upfront cost. Balance your needs with the boat’s intended use.
FAQ
- What is a side console kit? A side console kit provides a ready-to-install helm area with steering, gauges, and mounting space, designed for jon boats and skiffs.
- Which kit is best for a small jon boat? The REVOLUTION RPD 1422 is best for a low-profile setup on compact jon boats, offering a slim console without adding excess height.
- Do T-Tops fit all center consoles? T-Tops are designed to fit a range of center consoles but require checking measurements and mounting points for your specific boat model.
- Is aluminum better than poly for consoles? Aluminum is stronger for structural frames and can resist corrosion, while high-strength poly is lightweight and impact-resistant for certain components.
- Can I install a depth finder with these kits? Yes, several mounts and consoles provide depth finder mounting areas, but verify the depth finder’s size and mounting requirements before purchase.
- What maintenance is needed for these consoles? Regular cleaning, corrosion protection on metal parts, and inspection of mounting hardware help ensure long life in marine environments.