11 Best Kayak Trolling Motor Mounts in 2023 (Buyer’s Guide)

Kayak fishing is one of the best bonding experiences you can have with your family. You get to spend hours on the water, catching fish and enjoying nature at its finest. Fishing is an activity that many people enjoy both on and off the water. However, there are limits on how much you can haul up from the deep end of the lake or river. To fasten and speedier the kayak you need a good trolling motor mount.

While you might go fishing with the very Best Fishing Rods and Best Fishing Nets, assuming you’re a genuine fisher, you’ll require a rummaging motor and its mount. In this article, we have reviewed the 11 best kayak trolling motor mounts for 2023, as well as a comprehensive buying guide to help you with picking the right trolling motor mount.

How to Select the Best Kayak Trolling Motor Mounts

The majority of kayaks were not equipped with an engine. When it comes to the major driving force behind the regular kayak, rowing reigns supreme. If you decide to use a savaging engine, think about where and how you’ll attach it, and then choose the finest savaging engine kayak to mount.

Size Of The Trolling Motor:

Before we go into the big “what are the best kayak engine mounts” discussion, take a moment to consider the engine you’ll be mounting in your kayak. Why?

First and foremost, the engine’s size influences the mount’s resemblance. Different factors, such as weight, shaft length, and thrust, all play a role in determining whether or not a section is acceptable for your kayak.

On that point, you should strictly adhere to the mount’s most severe push limit – and weight rating, if one exists. Getting an engine mount that is too small for the actual engine might lead to disappointment under pressure, resulting in physical harm, engine loss, or even injury.

Shaft Length:

The optimal propeller for a savaging motor should be at a depth that retains roughly 6 crawls of water over the cutting edges. As a result, depending on the brand, type, and other elements of the savaging engine, the centerline of the engine and prop shaft should be roughly 12-18 creeps beneath the waterline. To determine the optimal shaft length for your boat, choose the point on the transom or bow where the engine will be positioned, then measure down to the waterline from that point.

the shaft must be 30 inches long when the gap between the water and transom mount is less than 10 inches. A 36-inch shaft is necessary if the gap between the water and the transom mount is somewhere between 10 and 16 inches. The distance between the water and the transom mount should be 16 to 20 inches, and the shaft should be 42 inches or longer.

Thrust:

A thrust is a unit of measurement used to quantify propulsion capability, and it is measured in weight or pounds. The greater the force, the greater the ability of the motor to move the kayak ahead. Your kayak should have at least 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of weight, according to popular belief.  As a result, a bigger thrust capability typically indicates you’ll go quicker on the water.

Examine the maximum thrust limit of the mount and ensure that the maximum thrust capacity of your trolling motor does not exceed the maximum thrust limit of the mount.

Recommended reading: How to Choose Trolling Motor Mount for Kayak 2023 Guide

Side Mount vs. Harsh Mount vs. Bow Mount: How are you going to fix it?

There are three types of savaging engine mount locations, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Where you put your savaging engine is determined by whether your kayak is suitable for having a savaging engine mounted in the scenario, as well as your preference for which mount is preferable based on your needs.

Bow Mount:

The savaging engine is mounted in the bow, or front, of your kayak with a bow mount. This is frequently the most popular choice among anglers who demand the greatest control over their kayak with the savaging motor Because the savaging motor is located on the bow, it propels the kayak through the water rather than moving it. However, the bow-mounted savaging engine will generally have a significant impact on your kayak’s following. With a bow mount, you’ll also need to manage less room on your kayak’s deck.

The overall design of the bow-mounted savaging engine is also an inefficient use of force for your engine because it isn’t designed to pull, but rather to push a watercraft through the water. It is known to make sudden, jerky movements that may quickly throw you off-kilter if you don’t have a good grasp on the power level of your savaging engine.

Side Mount:

Side mounts are far more popular than bow mounts for a variety of reasons, the most important of which is the ease with which you can control your kayak’s bearing. A side mount allows you to easily reach the turner handle, but it has a few drawbacks for anglers. Initially, a side-mounted savaging engine will substantially alter the following of your kayak because it will often neutralize the body plan. This may not bother some kayak customers, but if you want to get the greatest performance out of your savaging motor and kayak, a side mount will waste a lot of energy. 

If you intend to use a side-mounted savaging engine, you will unquestionably require a rudder to combat any drag or following troubles you may have. Furthermore, if you’re attempting to land a fish on this side of your kayak, the side mount will be an impediment you’ll need to overcome. It is a substantial risk of becoming entangled around the propeller.

Stern Mount:

The stern or transom installation is by far the most efficient of the three trolling motor mounting options. The stern position is certainly more difficult to manage since you may need to twist the tiller handle, but the advantages easily exceed the disadvantages.

A stern mount allows your kayak’s hull design to perform more efficiently, resulting in less drag and energy loss than a bow or side mount. It also increases the velocity of the propeller and results in considerably smoother turning movements. In addition, a stern mount is ideal for tracking. Most fishermen prefer a stern position because it keeps the motor and propeller behind them, allowing them to throw freely.

Most fishermen prefer a stern mount because it keeps the motor and propeller behind them, allowing them to cast and reel fish up to both sides of their kayak without fear of hitting anything.

DIY Trolling Motor Mount Ideas

Trolling motor mount designs to help you come up with the ideal design for you.

Wood Mount Design:

This pattern runs the length of your kayak, directly behind the captain’s chair. To secure it in place, it generally consists of one piece of wood, washers, and thumbscrews.

Wood Mount And PVC Design:

For design, take advantage of the kayak’s fishing rod holders. Vertical PVC pipes were placed into each holding, and a horizontal two-by-four was fastened to the PVC that extends out the side of the kayak and houses the trolling motor.

The Added Rod Holder Design:

You may use the kayak’s existing rod holders as a starting point in the ‘Added Rod Holders’ Design. Not only can you use U-shaped bolts and PVC pipes to replace the two-rod holders, but you can even add three more.

Rear Mounted Design:

you can utilize the handle at the harsh of a fishing kayak to make an engine mount. you can utilize HDPE sheeting to make a stage and afterward blast that got into the handle region to make a steady state for the savaging engine to connect to.

The Old ToolBox Design:

You may make a transom mount out of what seems to be the bottom of an old toolbox and fasten it to the stern of their kayak. This technique is ideal for trolling motor batteries in containers.

Diy Trolling Motor Mount:

Many kayak anglers choose to create their kayak-savaging engine mount using do-it-yourself techniques and advice. It’s a good idea to double-check that your layout will work for your kayak. If you want to take this course, look for a DIY instructional video on how to build a scavenging engine mount for your specific model kayak. You should meticulously plan for this cycle, ensuring that you have all of the necessary instruments and supplies for the performance.

In any case, here’s what you’ll need for the job:

• two sheets of 1×6
• a single 2×4 board
• PVC pipes, 3/4-inch
• Plate or mounting portion
• Obtaining lashes

1. To determine the estimated length of the 1×6 and 2×4 sheets, measure the available mounting area. Also, measure the distance between the scupper holes and choose the PVC pipe width accordingly.
2. While cutting the loads up, leave the 2x4s slightly longer than the 1x6s to meet the mounting space’s width.
3. On the 1×6 board that will be flat on the kayak’s deck, mark the distance between the scupper ports and slice two apertures to accommodate the PVC pipes.
4. At a 90-degree angle, glue and screw the two 1x6s together. One should be flat on the deck, while the other should be elevated, with the 2×4 linked on top and protruding to one side.
5. Mounting parts or plates are used to secure the joints between the 2×4 and the 1×6. Add one to the 2×4’s drawn-out finish, where the engine will be installed.
6. Connect the PVC pipes in such a way that they face the upper 1×6 and 2×4 sheets. To acquire the PVC pipes, use the ties.

You’ll see that making your kayak-savaging engine mount is rather straightforward. Simply remember that drilling apertures or cutting into a kayak in some unsuitable areas might cause major problems, so proceed with caution in any DIY projects.

Importance of Having a High-Quality Motor Mount

There are a lot of kayakers that skip out on a high-quality savaging engine mount, only to end up with regrettable outcomes. For one thing, a bad mount will surely drop into the water, costing you a lot of money to replace it with another. Another issue with inadequate engine mounts is that many people end up conducting a do-it-yourself job when attaching them to the boat.

These might leave you stranded in no man’s land, especially if you’re just starting them as a quick way to rest your arms. There’s a reason why professionally manufactured mounts stay securely on the boat rather than ones made on their own.

Best Kayak Motor Mounts Reviews – Top 11 Recommendations For 2023

This means that you can use your kayak without your savaging engine attached. This engine mount is also compatible with RAILBLAZA’s RailMount 32-41 accessories. These add-ons let you put pole holders, lights, or even camera mounts directly behind your kayak seat.

The pieces suit almost all kayaks, however, the even bar is designed for kayaks with a maximum width of 32 inches. It’s also possible with most well-known savaging engines, as long as their push limit is less than the mounts.

This is because this engine mount includes stick-on cushions that attach directly to the gunwales of your inflatable kayak. Although this installation does not have the appropriate marine-grade stick for those cushions, it is compatible with PVC inflatable SUPs and kayaks.

The package also includes a marine-grade metal track bar, a SuperStrong aluminum engine mount, and a two-sided, nylon-protected engine brace. The bar can also be adapted to accommodate savaging engines with more restricted shafts.

The fiberglass-supported nylon and treated steel equipment make it rust-proof and suitable for salty maritime environments. Furthermore, it provides stable attachment for transom-mount savaging engines with a push limit of up to 50 pounds.

The ProControll maxim “fight the fish, not the savaging engine” is a good indicator of its usability. It doesn’t require any tools or modifications to be put up; it’s secured in place by screw clasps. It also has a flexible underneath exterior part that conforms to any construction shape. An engine can be installed anywhere on the kayak, however, it is most commonly seen on the side or bow.

This engine mount is also designed with almost durable fiberglass-supported nylon exterior components that are resistant to abrasion. For enhanced strength and solidity, the internal elements are composed of zinc-plated treated steel.

The Newport Vessels brand is one of the most wonderful when it comes to producing high-quality savaging engines that are specifically designed to be used with kayaks.

It comes with one of the best electric savaging motors on the market, the Newport Vessels 36-lb Electric Kayak Trolling Motor. This engine includes a lightweight and robust 24″ fiberglass composite shaft, as well as a saltwater-safe powder coating on the outside.

It attaches to your kayak with two StarPort HD base mounts and comes with all of the necessary equipment for the complete installation of the engine mount and savaging engine.

The Minn Kota has the power to propel almost any kayak with a 30-pound push level, and it features a 6-inch ergonomically designed grip that can move and wind to offer you greater control over the pace and steering.

This Minn Kota savaging engine is energy efficient, so you get a respectable battery life, which is great if you plan on spending a couple of hours out on the lake. The 30-inch shaft is much more intense and durable.

The mount, which is equipped with a rectangular mounting opening example, provides an all-inclusive fit for any boat or kayak with a level point on the rough large enough for the opening.

Because of its robust core 13-measure treated steel construction, this engine mount will last you a long time without becoming corroded, injured, or displaying drop incompetence. Furthermore, the marine board backing plate maintains the cinch tight and secure, preventing slippage.

It is insufficient for individuals who need to attach their motor to the bow or harsh of their kayak. fitted for sustaining savaging engines with pushes of up to 35 pounds and is meant for simple installation to your kayak’s gunwales. Indeed, the metal bases securely support kayaks with a variety of calculated gunwales.

This trolling mount may also be modified to position your savaging motor on one or both sides of your kayak. The engine cinch is also made of nylon, which makes attaching your engine straightforward and reduces vibrations.

Are you searching for a savaging engine mount for a kayak that will best accommodate your Intex boat? Then, at that point, consider the Intex Motor Mount Kit for Intex Inflatable Boats, which are viable with both the more seasoned as well as the more current models of Intex boats as well.

Along these lines, it functions admirably on the Seahawk II, Mariner 400, and Excursion 2, 3, 4, and 5 as well as Challenger 2, 3, and 4. Other than simple connection and separation, the mount even dismantles very rapidly, making it incredible for you to push off into the water rapidly.

Produced using marine pressed wood complete with substantial aluminum support arms, the mount is as sturdy and dependable as it gets. The most outstanding aspect of? It considers joining up to 3.5 HP electric engines, making this one adaptable mount.

Furthermore, its basic design means that it will suit most boats without any modifications. The lightweight material, along with the innovative design, makes it ideal for use on much smaller boats.

It’s feasible with small electric savaging engines as much as a 24-pound push and a 25-millimeter shaft width; larger engines and faster speeds aren’t an option. Furthermore, I discovered that it works best with Watersnake’s electric engine.

The Shoreline Marine Canoe/Kayak Trolling Motor Mount is one of the most surprising and generally utilized savaging motor mounts for kayaks for more than one explanation. As a matter of first importance, it accompanies a couple of strong interfacing arms that are for all time connected to your kayak.

Moreover, the savaging motor part of the motor mount mounts to your kayak in the blink of an eye, simplifying it to present and eliminate. In the event that that wasn’t sufficient, it very well may be associated with a wide scope of motors because of everything comprehensive mounting pieces.

Furthermore, the parts may be modified into four various scenarios for connecting in the best way for you. It also has a mounting impression as well as a quick delivery pull lever, making for simple upkeep and capacity.

With a maximum width of six inches and a maximum transom thickness of three inches. This mount is suitable for 1.25-inch shafts and comes with a complete set of all-around planned treated steel equipment.

This engine mount features a 90-degree pivot and comes with two wires and a head for simple installation and de-installation.

FAQs

Conclusion

The following was a list of the best kayak trolling motor mounts in 2023. Kayak mount has a diverse usefulness aspect as well as a strong build. Furthermore, the connection compatibility of these mounts is easily workable with the majority of kayak motors. The assembly is simple and requires no complex mechanics or equipment.

Furthermore, the body design of these mounts and brackets is made of high-quality materials that retain the motor in place. Even the movement flexibility is a good feature here, thanks to the producers’ provision of a supporting layer and sufficient thickness. We hope our in-depth evaluation assists you in selecting the finest and most appropriate trolling motor for your kayak.