Best Kicker Motor Bracket for Fiberglass Boat Options for 7.5–20 HP Auxiliary Motors
Answering the question of how to securely mount a kicker motor on a fiberglass boat, these brackets are designed to provide stable lifting, positioning, and balance for auxiliary outboards. They’re best for small to mid-sized boats that rely on maneuverability and light trolling power. The top picks below cover aluminum and stainless configurations, adjustable heights, and various mounting deck options to fit 7.5–20 HP engines.
| Product | Engine Range | Mounting Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket | Up to 20 HP | Transom mount; 304 stainless steel body | Best for heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant setups on larger fiberglass boats |
| Marinebaby Boat Outboard Motor Bracket | 7.5–20 HP | Aluminum frame; polypropylene mounting board | Better for light-to-midsize boats needing easy height adjustment |
| Norestar Outboard Boat Motor Bracket (up to 20 HP) | Up to 20 HP | Transom mount; compact footprint | Best for boats with limited mounting space |
| FUTURUP Boat Outboard Motor Bracket | 7.5–20 HP | Aluminum with plastic base; 4-position lift | Best for easy height adjustment and stable track |
| Vinland Marine Aluminum Bracket (7.5–20 HP) | 7.5–20 HP | Aluminum with black PP mounting base | Best balance of weight, durability, and versatile mounting |
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket
The Haida bracket uses a 304 stainless steel frame with a plastic base, supporting motors up to 20 HP. It features a mounting area of 4-7/16″ by 5-11/16″ and a roller area of 8-1/4″ by 10-3/8″. Manual lifting is required to raise or lower the motor, making it simple for boats that stay close to the dock or use a small crew. Best for boats that need robust corrosion resistance and a sturdy transom solution. A limitation is that the system requires manual operation, which may be less convenient on longer trips or for larger engines.
Marinebaby Boat Outboard Motor Bracket
The Marinebaby bracket is an aluminum unit designed for 7.5–20 HP motors, with a solid polypropylene mounting board and stainless steel springs for counter-balancing. Five-position height adjustment ranges from 195mm to 320mm, offering flexible alignment for various boat transoms. It’s best for lightweight or mid-weight applications where easy height changes improve propulsion balance. A potential drawback is aluminum construction, which may be less resistant to prolonged exposure than stainless steel in highly corrosive environments.
Norestar Outboard Boat Motor Bracket (Up to 20 HP)
Designed to fit a wide range of boats, the Norestar bracket locks and tilts the motor on the transom, while occupying minimal mounting space. It supports engines up to 20 HP with a 110 lb capacity, making it a practical choice for boats that require compact but reliable kicker support. Best for boats with limited stern space; avoid this if you need heavier-duty support for larger trolling motors or frequent heavy lifting.
Mojiate 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Bracket
The Mojiate bracket supports 7.5–20 HP two-stroke engines with a heavy-duty aluminum frame and a plastic mounting plate. It includes five-height positions for balanced mounting and a 115 lb weight limit. This option is best for small to medium boats that require reliable, adjustable support without excessive weight. A caution: not recommended for four-stroke motors, as indicated by its compatibility notes.
FUTURUP Boat Outboard Motor Bracket
The FUTURUP bracket is an aluminum unit with a plastic base, rated for 7.5–20 HP engines and weighing up to 115 lbs. It features a retractable bracket with a reinforced welded frame and stainless steel parts, plus a 4-position spring-loaded height adjustment. It’s best for sailors who want easy motor deployment and a stable track. Limitation includes a plastic base, which may wear faster under rough use or frequent mounting/removal cycles.
Vinland Marine Aluminum Outboard Mount Bracket
The Vinland Marine bracket uses rust-resistant anodized aluminum with a black PP base and five vertical adjustment positions. It handles 7.5–20 HP motors and weights up to 115 lbs. It’s a versatile option for jon boats, bass trackers, or canoes seeking a robust, corrosion-resistant kicker mount. A possible limitation is that the PP base, while durable, may show wear sooner with frequent motor swapping.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Choosing A Kicker Bracket
What engine range do you need? Most brackets here support 7.5–20 HP. If you regularly run higher-powered trolling gear, choose a heavier-duty stainless-steel or welded aluminum model with a higher weight rating.
Material matters. Stainless steel frames offer superior corrosion resistance for saltwater use, while aluminum provides lighter weight and good durability for freshwater boats. Base materials (plastic vs polypropylene) influence load distribution and maintenance needs.
Height adjustability. Five-position or four-position locking systems help align the motor for optimal balance and propeller immersion. Consider how often you’ll adjust height and whether quick-release features are important.
Space and mounting footprint. Transom-mounted brackets vary in footprint. For boats with tight stern space, a compact or low-profile model may be preferable.
Ease of use and maintenance. Brackets with simple manual lifting are affordable but require physical effort. Consider powered lifting options if you anticipate frequent lifting or large quads of weight.
Weight capacity and compatibility. Verify that the bracket supports the engine’s weight class and fits your transom mounting pattern. Not all models suit four-stroke engines, or heavier trolling motors.
FAQ
- What is the typical weight limit for these brackets? Most models support up to 115 lbs, with some rated for 110 lbs depending on design and mounting hardware.
- Are these brackets suitable for saltwater use? Stainless steel frames provide better corrosion resistance in saltwater; aluminum options are generally fine in freshwater or occasional salt exposure with proper rinsing.
- Do these brackets work with four-stroke motors? Some models specify compatibility with two-stroke engines; check the product details for four-stroke compatibility before purchase.
- Is height adjustment important for trolling efficiency? Yes. Proper height improves propeller immersion and trim, increasing maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
- Can I install these brackets myself? Most are designed for DIY installation with standard transom mounting, but confirm installation requirements in the product manual and ensure you have the necessary tools.
- What should I avoid when choosing a kicker bracket? Avoid models with insufficient weight rating for your engine or those with bases that aren’t compatible with your boat’s transom design.