Best Trolling Motor Mounts for Jon Boats: Top Picks for Safe, Steady Travel
Choosing the right trolling motor mount for a jon boat is essential for stability, control, and long day boating. The selections below focus on universal fits, corrosion resistance, and easy setup so you can tailor your craft to calm lakes or choppy coastal waters. Each option is designed to complement flat stern layouts and clamp-on electric trolling motors, offering solid support without adding excessive weight. Read on to compare notable mounts, including models built for saltwater use and lightweight kayaks adapted for jon boats.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Fit Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount | besttruck | Universal fit, corrosion resistant, up to 3 HP | Flat stern, electric motors only |
| Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust | Newport Vessels | Strong saltwater performance, adjustable mount | Transom mount, 30″ shaft |
| Brocraft Deck Mount Trolling Motor Bracket | Brocraft | Marine aluminum, easy removal during engine use | Deck/Clamp-on style |
| NyVoozy Rudder Clamp | NyVoozy | Stabilizes steering for windier conditions | Rudder clamp for 24–55 lb motors |
| FEIMIRE Kayak Motor Mount | FEIMIRE | Heavy-duty aluminum, rot-proof nylon board | Universal bolt pattern |
Universal Transom Trolling Motor Mount for Kayaks
Designed for clamp-on electric trolling motors, this mount offers a universal fit for any boat with a flat stern capable of supporting a power pole. It supports motors up to 3 HP, giving jon boat users a practical balance of power and control. The hardware is stainless steel with a black nylon housing, delivering corrosion resistance and weatherproof performance ideal for salt or freshwater use. While it does not suit outboard engines, it excels as a lightweight, sturdy option for electric trolling motors on compact jon boats or kayaks adapted to stern mounting.
Newport NV-Series 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor
This transom-mounted electric trolling motor delivers robust thrust with eight adjustable speeds (five forward, three reverse) and a 30-inch shaft for versatile mounting on a jon boat. The model features a 5-LED battery meter for at-a-glance power status and a telescoping tiller handle for comfortable steering. Its mounting angle, height, and direction can be locked into place, ensuring consistent performance in varying water conditions. The 3-blade propeller is noted for good low-end torque and smooth acceleration, useful when precise control is needed in shallows or near cover.
Brocraft Deck Mount Trolling Motor Bracket
This universal deck mount bracket is crafted from marine aluminum with a black nylon coating, designed for clamp-on electric trolling motors. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to move between boats or remove when the motor is not in use. The design supports quick motor removal when engine power is required, such as during docking or trailering, helping to minimize drag and simplify storage on a jon boat or other small craft.
NyVoozy Rudder Clamp for Trolling Motors
This rudder clamp kit adds stability to trolling motors rated between 24 and 55 pounds, addressing steering concerns in windy conditions. The kit fits motor shafts around 23–32 millimeters and is compatible with major brands, including Minn Kota and Newport Vessel. Made from PA66GF30 with SU304 stainless screws, it resists seawater exposure and corrosion, providing a durable, long-lasting steering aid for jon boat setups where wind and current are factors.
Pro Controll EZ Mount II Bow Mount Bracket
The EZ Mount II converts a transom-mounted trolling motor to a bow-mount setup, offering quick installation and a simplified setup process. It’s designed for thumb-type tilt-lever hinge brackets, enabling a bow-gunwale mount that can be completed in minutes. This option is particularly useful for jon boats where bow mounting improves maneuverability, steering precision, and overall control in confined water or tight navigation.
FEIMIRE Kayak Motor Mount
FEIMIRE’s kayak motor mount uses thick 5mm marine-grade aluminum with a gloss powder-coated finish to resist saltwater corrosion. It features a universal 3.75″ x 4.75″ bolt pattern compatible with many trolling motors from Newport, Minn Kota, and others. A rot-proof nylon mounting board reduces weight and water damage risk on the stern, improving longevity and ease of use on jon boats with stern-mounted motors.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Boat compatibility: Confirm the mount fits a flat stern or a suitable deck surface on your jon boat. Some mounts are designed specifically for kayaks or small craft, while others praise universal bolt patterns.
- Motor compatibility: Check the motor type (electric clamp-on vs. bow mount), horsepower rating (HP), and shaft length. Most jon boat users benefit from mounts that support up to 3 HP for light-duty to moderate trolling.
- Construction materials: Look for marine-grade aluminum, stainless steel hardware, and corrosion-resistant housings. Saltwater environments demand high-grade materials to prevent rust and degradation.
- Ease of installation and removal: A quick-release or lightweight deck-mount design reduces set-up time and helps during transport or storage.
- Stability and steering aids: Rudder clamps or stabilizers improve directional control in wind or current, particularly on smaller boats where small directional changes have bigger effects.
- Adjustability: Consider mounting height, tilt, angle, and locking mechanisms. Flexible mounts help tailor performance to water conditions and operator preference.
- Maintenance and durability: Favor models with rot-proof components and weatherproof finishes to extend life and reduce downtime for repairs.
- Portability and storage: If you trailer your jon boat, choose mounts that detach or fold easily to minimize space while traveling.
- Safety and reliability: Ensure all mounts are certified or well-reviewed for marine use and can securely hold the motor under typical boating conditions.
- Budget and availability: Compare product longevity, warranty, and replacement parts. The most economical choice may offer the best long-term value when paired with a compatible motor.
When selecting a trolling motor mount for a jon boat, prioritize compatibility with your stern layout, the motor you own or plan to buy, and the typical water conditions you encounter. A balanced selection—combining a robust deck or transom mount with a stabilizing rudder or clamp—often delivers the best control, reduces drift, and improves maneuverability across freshwater and saltwater applications alike.