Best Steering Consoles for Aluminum Boats and Jon Boats
Choosing the right steering console can dramatically improve control, comfort, and safety on aluminum boats. The following selections focus on durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with common aluminum hulls and jon boats. Each option offers features such as adjustable mounting, rugged poly construction, and integrated controls to streamline cockpit layouts.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature | Design Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount | SFriding | Adjustable height; plywood reinforced face | Flat top for depth finder mounting; aluminum alloy build |
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit | REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT | Complete side console kit; durable poly construction | Variety of colors; suitable for jon boats and skiffs |
| RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small | REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT | Compact helm; stainless grab rail and cup holders | Rotationally molded poly; fits side mount or binnacle controls |
| BOAT STEERING CONSOLE | VersaChock | Made in USA; universal design | Pre-drilled holes for phones and accessories |
| Alpha Rider Side Console Switch Panel Mount | Alpha Rider | Universal compatibility; organized accessory mounting | Aluminum bracket with reinforced screws; versatile mounting |
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
The SFriding steering console mount is designed for aluminum and fiberglass hulls, featuring an aluminum alloy construction that resists corrosion in marine environments. Its height is adjustable, allowing operators to align the steering wheel with their seating position for better leverage and comfort. A plywood-reinforced face provides a solid mounting surface for the steering wheel, ensuring stability under engine vibrations and rough water. The flat top is suitable for mounting depth finders or other electronics, helping to consolidate the cockpit into a single, efficient control area. This console consistently supports reliable steering control without adding significant weight to the vessel.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit
The RPD 1822 Side Console Kit is a complete upgrade for jon boats, skiffs, and similar vessels. Its construction mirrors high-end coolers and kayaks with tough polymer material designed to withstand marine use. The kit is offered in multiple color options, including gray, white, black, tan, and green, allowing operators to match hull colors and accents. The kit’s side-console layout provides an ergonomic helm position, with durable surfaces capable of supporting steering mechanisms and side-mount controls. Its poly build emphasizes impact resistance and longevity in variable water conditions.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small
The RPD 1019 is a compact steering helm designed for smaller boats and RIBs. It features a stainless steel grab rail handle and built-in cup holders, and accepts various control configurations, including side mount or binnacle controls. The rotationally molded poly construction is UV-rated and resistant to cracking, yellowing, or chipping, ensuring a long service life in harsh marine environments. The design emphasizes a low-profile footprint while still providing essential mounting points for electronics and switches. It’s suitable for anglers and small-boat operators who want a durable console without bulk.
BOAT STEERING CONSOLE
VersaChock’s Boat Steering Console emphasizes a USA-made build with a universal design suitable for various hulls. It includes pre-drilled holes oriented for common accessories, such as phone chargers and audio controllers, enabling a clean, integrated cockpit. While intended to be versatile, the design remains sturdy enough to handle routine steering duties on aluminum boats. The console aims to simplify mounting of essential electronics while maintaining a compact profile that preserves deck space for fishing or loading gear.
DeckMate Premium Pontoon Boat Console (Gray)
DeckMate’s Premium Pontoon Boat Console delivers a solid, rotationally molded plastic shell designed for durability in salt and freshwater use. The helm is complemented by a matching 32 oz marine-grade seat vinyl on the access panel, providing a cohesive look with pontoon interiors. A large removable access panel allows easy maintenance and access to wiring and steering components. This option is particularly suited for pontoon setups where space is abundant and a robust, weather-resistant console is desirable for long trips and family outings.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit
The RPD 1422 Side Console Kit offers a complete side-console solution with a low-profile design suitable for jon boats and skiffs. Constructed from tough poly, the kit emphasizes ease of installation and durability, appealing to users who want a reliable helm without added weight or complexity. The color options, including gray and others, help consumers match their vessel’s aesthetic. This kit is positioned as a practical upgrade for navigation control, instrument mounting, and overall helm organization.
Alpha Rider Aluminum Side Console Switch Panel Mount
The Alpha Rider switch panel mount provides universal compatibility for a range of boats, including fishing boats, pontoons, and offshore vessels. The aluminum bracket uses screw reinforcement to keep fish finders and switch panels firmly in place even in rough seas. It supports multiple electronics while maintaining a clean, space-saving layout. Pre-drilled holes simplify installation, and the finish blends with most interiors, making it a flexible choice for owners who want a durable, organized helm area without compromising cabin aesthetics.
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, OD Green
The RPD 1019 OD Green edition mirrors the features of the small RPD console with a compact footprint suitable for space-constrained boats. It maintains the stainless grab rail and cup holders and supports side mount or binnacle controls. The rotationally molded poly construction is designed to resist cracking and yellowing over time, ensuring longevity in humid marine environments. The OD Green variant adds a discrete, low-profile aesthetic suitable for certain hull colors and outdoor use.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Material and durability: Look for rotationally molded poly or aluminum constructions that resist impact, salt, and UV exposure. Poly options are often lighter and corrosion-resistant, while aluminum builds offer ruggedness for demanding conditions.
- Compatibility and mounting: Ensure the console is compatible with your boat’s hull type (aluminum, jon, or skiff) and that it supports your preferred control configurations (side mount, binnacle, or integrated controls).
- Height and ergonomics: Adjustable-height consoles improve steering posture and reduce fatigue. Consider whether you need a flat top for depth finders or a clean surface for electronics mounting.
- Accessory integration: Pre-drilled holes and built-in panels help organize electronics, phones, and audio controls. Check for compatibility with depth finders, radios, switches, and cup holders.
- Appearance and color options: Color variants (gray, white, green, etc.) enable easier matching with boat interiors and hull colors, while keeping the helm visually cohesive.
- Installation effort: Some kits are complete side-console packages, which can simplify setup but may require more workspace and tools. Others are modular and flexible for on-site customization.
- Warranty and support: Choose brands with documented support and warranties to navigate potential issues after installation.