Best Kicker Motor for Boat: Top Picks for Auxiliary Outboard Needs
Answering the question, which kicker motor or auxiliary setup fits your boat best depends on your vessel size, preferred control method, and the environment you fish or cruise in. This guide highlights five practical options, from steering kits to lightweight trolling motors and sturdy mounting brackets. Each pick is suited to different boaters: casual anglers needing maneuverability, saltwater users seeking corrosion resistance, and operators who want reinforced mounts for heavier motors. Below is a concise summary to compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Notable Point |
|---|---|---|
| Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 | Boats with primary outboard and kicker addition | Steers kicker via main wheel |
| Newport NV-Series 36lb Trolling Motor | Lightweight, saltwater or freshwater small craft | Low-maintenance, efficient propulsion |
| PEXMOR 55LBS Trolling Motor | Longer days on the water, larger small boats | Powerful 55 lb thrust, adjustable depth/angle |
| Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket Kicker | Auxiliary motor up to 20 HP | Sturdy 304 stainless, manual lift |
| Marinebaby Boat Outboard Motor Bracket | Heavy-duty bracket for 20 HP range | Solid aluminum, height adjustable |
Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
The Attwood kit allows steering a kicker motor using your primary outboard’s steering wheel by connecting the main and kicker units. It uses a 24″ zinc-plated rod for durability and enables cutting the connector rod to fit. Best for boats that already have a larger primary engine and want synchronized steering for the auxiliary motor.
Best for: Boaters seeking a seamless steering experience between primary and kicker motors. This kit is a practical upgrade for anglers or cruisers who frequently maneuver in tight spaces or current-rich ports.
Caution: Compatibility depends on the existing steering geometry; ensure your setup can accommodate the connector rod and linkage length.
Newport NV-Series 36lb Thrust Trolling Motor 12V – Saltwater Transom Mount
This trolling motor provides 36 pounds of thrust in 12V (also available in 24V variants), designed for lightweight propulsion on kayaks, canoes, inflatables, and small boats. It features saltwater-ready construction and a compact shaft with a battery indicator, aiming for efficiency and quiet operation.
Best for: Small craft that prioritize portability and low weight, with a need for quiet, efficient electric propulsion in calm to moderate conditions.
Better for: Saltwater users who want corrosion resistance and straightforward, maintenance-light operation.
PEXMOR 55LBS Thrust Trolling Motor
The PEXMOR model delivers 55 pounds of thrust and a fully adjustable handle with five forward and three reverse speeds. It is designed for saltwater use with a robust, energy-efficient build, featuring a 12V system suitable for longer trips on small to mid-sized boats. The depth and angle are adjustable, helping adapt to varying water conditions.
Best for: Anglers or boaters needing more power and control for longer trips, especially in choppier conditions or heavier setups where more thrust is helpful.
Caution: Heavier motors mean heaver mounting requirements; ensure your bracket and transom can support the weight and stress.
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket Kicker for Boat Up To 20HP
This 2-stroke bracket is designed to support auxiliary motors up to 20 HP. Made with 304 stainless steel and a plastic base, it offers a stable mounting solution with a manual lift to raise and lower the motor as needed. It’s a solid choice for boats that require a heavier kicker without compromising stability.
Best for: Boats needing a sturdy, corrosion-resistant bracket capable of supporting up to 20 HP, with straightforward manual operation.
Limitation: Manual lifting requires extra effort and may be less convenient for frequent on/off use in rough conditions.
Marinebaby Boat Outboard Motor Bracket
The Marinebaby bracket is built from heavy-duty aluminum and offers 5-position height adjustment from approximately 195 mm to 320 mm. It is designed to support 20 HP-class motors and includes stainless steel springs for counter-balance. This bracket suits boats that need reliable, adjustable support for auxiliary power.
Best for: Heavier auxiliary motors where adjustable height and strong construction are priorities, such as mid-sized boats or frequent loading/unloading scenarios.
Limitation: Ensure mounting plate dimensions match your transom’s layout to avoid fit issues.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a kicker motor setup?
- Boat size and primary engine compatibility: For larger boats, a steering kit like the Attwood can synchronize control, reducing steering effort. For smaller craft, a trolling motor or bracket may be more appropriate.
- Power needs and fuel type: Electric trolling motors (like Newport NV-Series and PEXMOR) save weight and provide quiet operation, ideal for fishing and tranquil returns. Gas-powered options (Haida, Marinebaby, NAZEAOB) offer higher thrust and independence from batteries but require more maintenance.
- _mounting and weight considerations_: Verify transom strength and bracket compatibility. Heavier setups demand robust brackets and mounting hardware. Check load limits and adjustability to fit your boat and typical load.
- Corrosion resistance and environment_: Saltwater environments require corrosion-resistant materials; consider stainless steel brackets and aluminum components to extend life.
- Ease of use and maintenance_: Electric models are often easier for novices; manual brackets require more effort but can be simpler to service and repair when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a kicker motor steering kit used for?
It allows steering a kicker motor with your main steering wheel, improving maneuverability when using an auxiliary engine.
- Are electric trolling motors better for freshwater or saltwater?
Both can work in either environment, but choose models with corrosion-resistant components for saltwater use.
- How do I know if my bracket can handle 20 HP?
Check the bracket’s load rating, mounting pattern, and the transom’s strength to ensure safe operation.
- Is a higher thrust motor always better?
More thrust helps in heavier loads or larger boats, but it consumes more battery power (for electric models) or increases weight and mounting stress.
- What maintenance is required for a kicker bracket?
Regularly check bolts for tightness, inspect for corrosion, and lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.