Answering the needs of 14 foot jon boat owners seeking reliable steering consoles, this guide highlights five top picks. Each option is chosen for durability, ease of install, and compatibility with small flat-bottom boats. The buyers most likely to benefit are DIY boaters upgrading older rigs, anglers needing steady steering in tight channels, and skiff enthusiasts seeking a low-profile cockpit. Below, compare kits, mounts, and consoles to help decide which setup best fits your boat and use case.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More | Budget upgrades | Complete kit with sturdy poly construction | New Clay color only; multiple color options exist |
| RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More | Low-profile setups | Compact, low-profile console | Limited to clay color options |
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More | Durable conferences | Reinforced poly construction | Same as first item in styling |
| T-H Marine Steering Console Mount | Dedicated mounting | Simple mount for quick install | May require additional hardware for full setup |
| Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face | Depth finder ready | Adjustable, plywood-reinforced top | More complex install due to reinforcement |
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
Best for: Budget-minded builders needing a complete console kit. Why selected: This kit provides a full side console solution with sturdy, boat-grade poly construction and a clay color option that blends with many hull finishes. It is designed for jon boats and skiffs, offering a straightforward upgrade path for an older or simpler setup. Caution: Available color options may be limited based on stock; confirm color before purchase.
RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
Best for: Builders seeking a lower-profile console. Why selected: The kit emphasizes a compact footprint while delivering a complete side console setup, with the same rugged poly construction as larger models. Caution: The low-profile design may limit space for certain gauges or dash components; measure available cockpit space before purchase.
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More
Best for: Anglers upgrading multiple boats with a rugged, repeatable console solution. Why selected: This variant mirrors the 1822 design in construction and capability, offering consistent performance across vessels. Caution: Color choices are consistent with Clay; verify if a different tone is preferred for your hull.
T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
Best for: Those who already own a console or want a simple mounting solution. Why selected: The T-H Marine mount provides a dependable base for attaching a steering wheel or existing console hardware. Caution: This mount may require additional components for full steering systems; plan for compatible hardware and gauges.
Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face
Best for: Users needing a robust, depth-finder ready platform. Why selected: This mount combines aluminum alloy strength with a plywood-reinforced face, providing a stable base for larger displays or controls. Caution: Installation may be more involved due to reinforcement; ensure proper mounting hardware and load distribution.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a 14 foot jon boat steering console system:
- Boat compatibility: Ensure the console kit matches jon boats or skiffs with flat decks and suitable mounting areas.
- Material durability: Poly and aluminum options offer different levels of impact resistance and weight; choose based on exposure to sun, salt, and rough water.
- Profile and space: Low-profile kits save cockpit space but may limit instrument mounting; confirm gauge and depth finder clearance.
- Mounting hardware: Some options require additional brackets or fasteners—plan for compatible hardware and installation time.
- Aesthetics: Color options (like Clay, White, Black, Tan, Gray, Green) help the console blend with hull color and deck hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is a side console kit used for on a jon boat? A: It provides a ready-made steering and control area, freeing space on the main deck and simplifying steering control installation.
- Q: Are these kits suitable for aluminum and fiberglass hulls? A: Most are designed for jon boats and skiffs, but check the mounting surface and hardware requirements for fiberglass or different aluminum configurations.
- Q: Do these kits include gauges or steering wheels? A: The listed features focus on the console and mount; gauges and wheels may require separate purchases.
- Q: Can I install a depth finder with these consoles? A: Some options offer flat tops or reinforced faces suitable for depth finders, but verify the mounting surface and weight.
- Q: Do I need professional installation? A: For best results and to ensure water protection, consider professional installation if you are unsure about mounting strength and wiring.
- Q: Which console is best for a low-profile setup? A: The 1422 side console kit emphasizes a lower footprint, suitable for boats with limited cockpit height.