Best Jon Boat Steering Console Options for Easy, Secure Steering
Finding the right steering console for a jon boat can simplify handling, improve access to controls, and keep the cockpit organized. This guide highlights five solid choices designed for small to mid-sized boats, focusing on simplicity, durability, and ease of installation. Best for DIY enthusiasts, casual weekend anglers, and small skiff operators who want a robust steering upgrade. The table below summarizes key picks to compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, White | Compact cabins and light ribs | Durable roto-molded poly with integrable grab rail | Multiple colors available |
| REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green | RIBs and skiffs needing color match | Same rugged build as white version | Coordinating color option |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | Most aluminum or fiberglass boats | Adjustable height; reinforced mounting surface | Versatile, easy to retrofit |
| SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount | Flat top for depth finder mounting | Plywood reinforced mounting face | Good for added instrumentation |
| VEVOR Boat Steering System Kit | Custom steering control systems | Complete rotary steering with 15 ft cable and 13.5″ wheel | Includes hardware and components |
REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, White
The REVOLUTION RPD 1019 white console delivers a compact steering helm with a stainless steel grab rail and cup holders designed to accept side mount or binnacle controls. Built from rugged rotationally molded poly, this console is designed to resist cracking, yellowing, and chipping, making it suitable for year-round use on a jon boat or small skiff. Best for boaters who want a clean, low-profile steering station with a long-lasting body and a color option that blends with light-colored hulls.
Best for: small boats needing a durable, simple steering helm that blends with white or light-colored interiors. Why selected: it uses a high-durability poly construction similar to premium coolers and kayaks, offering a long service life with minimal maintenance. Caution: color choice may affect matching with existing hardware; verify color compatibility before purchase.
REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
This OD Green variant shares the same indestructible build as the white version, optimized for small boats, ribs, and skiffs that need a compact helm with flexible control mounting. Its rotomolded poly construction is designed for rugged marine use and color-coordinated to match green hulls or accents. Best for: boat owners seeking a durable, low-profile console in a color that matches outdoor environments. Why selected: identical benefits to the white model, ensuring consistent performance across color schemes. Caution: confirm side mount or binnacle control compatibility with your current setup before upgrading.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
The T-H Marine steering console mount is designed to fit most aluminum or fiberglass boats, making it an easy upgrade for many common boat setups. It features an adjustable height design, allowing the console to sit between 16″ and 26″ tall, with adjustable space beneath from 10″ to 20″ for flexible installation. Constructed from .090″-thick aluminum with welded construction for dependable marine strength. Best for: boaters who want a highly adaptable mounting option that can retro-fit many hull styles. Why selected: straightforward installation, robust aluminum build, and flexible height settings. Caution: ensure the under-console space fits your leg and seating arrangement when fully extended.
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
The SFriding steering console mount features an adjustable height with a flat top to accommodate a depth finder or other instruments. It includes a plywood-reinforced face to mount the steering wheel securely. Best for: owners who plan to mount electronics or depth finders atop the console for quick viewing. Why selected: plywood reinforcement provides a solid mounting surface, enhancing rigidity for added instrumentation. Caution: verify weight and hardware clearances for deeper electronics on a small console space.
VEVOR Boat Steering System Kit
The VEVOR kit provides a complete rotary steering system with a 15-foot steering cable, a 13.5-inch steering wheel, a 3/4″ tapered shaft, and a 90-degree bezel kit. It includes hardware necessary to assemble a functional steering setup on a range of small to mid-sized boats. Best for: buyers who want a complete, ready-to-install system with robust rotary steering capabilities. Why selected: the kit covers critical components in one package, simplifying installation and adjustments. Caution: confirm that the steering cable length matches your boat’s layout to avoid fit issues.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Jon Boat Steering Consoles
- Boat compatibility: Check hull material (aluminum vs. fiberglass) and interior space to ensure the console fits without interfering with seats, storage, or passenger space.
- Mounting style: Decide between integrated consoles (like the REVOLUTION units) and separate mounts (like T-H Marine or SFriding) based on how much customization you want and whether you will add electronics or instruments.
- Height and reach: Adjustable-height consoles help accommodate different operators and seating arrangements. Ensure controls and gauges are within comfortable reach when seated or standing.
- Materials and durability: Rotationally molded poly is very durable; aluminum mounts offer strong structural support but may require more precise fitment. Consider exposure to sun, salt spray, and impact when choosing finish.
- Instrumentation support: If you plan to mount depth finders, charts, or other electronics, prefer a flat top or reinforced surfaces to support additional weight and wiring routing.
- Installation ease: Some kits are “plug-and-play” with existing helm components, while others require more custom drilling or wiring. Factor in your DIY comfort level and available tools.
FAQ
- What is the best console for a small jon boat with limited space?
– The REVOLUTION RPD 1019 White console is designed for compact installations and offers a grab rail and cup holders in a small footprint. - Do I need a complete steering kit or just a console mount?
– If you already have a wheel and helm components, a mounting kit like the T-H Marine can adapt to many boats; otherwise, a complete kit like the VEVOR option provides the full steering system. - Can I mount depth finders on top of the console?
– Yes, models with a flat top or reinforced mounting face (such as the SFriding unit) support depth finder installations, but verify available surface area and clearance for cables. - Are these materials resistant to marine weather?
– Rotationally molded poly and aluminum with welded construction are designed for marine environments, but protect exposed metal surfaces from corrosion with proper maintenance. - Will these consoles fit both aluminum and fiberglass boats?
– Many options are advertised as adaptable to most boats, including aluminum and fiberglass; always measure your helm space and confirm mounting dimensions before purchasing.
These selections offer practical, durable steering console options for jon boats and small skiffs. Each choice balances ease of installation with long-term resilience, helping you choose based on your boat’s hull material, available space, and instrumentation needs.