Best Trolling Motor Jack Plate Options for Small Boats and Up to 35HP
Finding the right trolling motor jack plate can optimize engine height, improve balance, and enhance shallow-water performance for small boats. This guide highlights five reliable jack plates and mounting brackets designed for engines up to 35HP, with features focused on adjustability, durability, and easy installation. Each entry includes a quick reference table to compare key specs at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Setback | Adjustability | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VELCKING MJ-1-DP Black | VELCKING | 4 inches | 0–100 mm (20 mm steps) | Hard steel alloy |
| Deargooday Universal Bracket | Deargooday | Not specified | Unspecified (universal mounting) | Metal mounting bracket |
| RUIANOMG MJ-1-DP | RUIANOMG | 4 inches | Manual height/Setback adjustment | Cast aluminum |
| TRUCFUSION 4″ Jack Plate | TRUCFUSION | 4 inches | 7.09″ vertical adjustment | Aluminum alloy |
| WFLNHB JPL4400 | WFLNHB | 4 inches | Adjustable via bolt | Aluminum alloy |
VELCKING MJ-1-DP Black 4” Jack Plate
The VELCKING MJ-1-DP jack plate is designed for small engines up to 35HP with a four-inch setback. It offers adjustable engine height from 0 to 100 mm in 20 mm increments, enabling precise tuning for performance and ride quality. The kit includes rubber pad mounting blocks and stainless steel screws to secure the jack plate to the engine and crossmember, reducing vibrations and preventing damage. Construction uses a heavy-duty hard steel alloy to resist vibration and impact from waves and wakes, delivering durability in marine environments.
Deargooday Universal Trolling Motor Bracket
This universal mounting bracket is designed for clamp-on electric trolling motors and fits boats with a flat stern suitable for a power pole. It is intended specifically for trolling motors, not outboard engines. The bracket supports quick-release mounting for fast installation and removal for maintenance. Easy installation requires drilling four holes on a flat surface, followed by securing with the included hardware. It provides a flexible solution for kayak or small boat setups that need rapid motor changes without full transom modifications.
RUIANOMG MJ-1-DP 4″ Setback Jack Plate
The RUIANOMG MJ-1-DP is a 4-inch setback jack plate suitable for clamp-mounted outboard motors up to 35HP. Constructed from cast aluminum, it emphasizes strength and corrosion resistance to withstand harsh marine conditions. The 4-inch setback increases hull clearance, enabling longer shaft motors on short-shaft boats and allowing operation in shallow water with improved engine protection. This model emphasizes robust build quality and practical setback for small craft.
TRUCFUSION Outboard Jack Plate, 4″ Setback
The TRUCFUSION 4-inch setback jack plate positions the engine 4 inches from the transom to improve balance and reduce bow rise at speed. It features an adjustable vertical range up to 7.09 inches, with the actual lift depending on engine weight and water conditions. The design prioritizes ease of use, quick setup, and compatibility with a variety of small boats, using lightweight aluminum alloy and stainless steel fasteners to resist corrosion.
VELCKING MJ-1-DP White 4” Jack Plate
The white variant of the VELCKING MJ-1-DP offers the same 4-inch setback with 0–100 mm adjustable height in 20 mm increments. It includes mounting hardware and uses a durable hard steel alloy construction to withstand the rigors of marine use. This option provides a distinct color choice while maintaining the same performance and installation profile as the black version.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a trolling motor jack plate for small boats and up to 35HP engines include compatibility, installation complexity, and the balance between added height and weight distribution. A 4-inch setback helps with hull clearance and water flow around the prop, reducing cavitation and bow rise at speed. Adjustable height ranges permit precise tuning for different load conditions and water depths, while materials like cast aluminum or aluminum alloy offer corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
Manufacturers differ in how they implement adjustability. Some offer manual height adjustments across fixed increments, others provide continuous vertical travel, and a few combine both. Quick-release or easy-install mounting brackets can simplify maintenance or reconfiguration between seasons. Durability is also essential; look for solid mounting blocks, stainless steel fasteners, and corrosion-resistant alloys that stand up to saltwater exposure and wave action.
Fitment is another critical factor. While these products target engines up to 35HP, ensure the jack plate mounting pattern matches your transom and engine shear. For clamp-on trolling motors or stern-mounted brackets, confirm compatibility with your boat’s stern profile and any required reinforcement. If you anticipate frequent shallow-water operation or long shaft-to-short shaft adaptation, prioritize models with clear setback specifications and documented load capacities.
Maintenance considerations include inspecting rubber blocks and fasteners for wear, ensuring the jack plate remains level, and verifying that adjustment mechanisms operate smoothly on the fly if needed. Always follow manufacturer installation guidelines and use the included hardware to preserve warranty coverage. For boats exposed to rough conditions, choose models with robust construction and protective coatings to resist corrosion and impact damage.