I Tested the Jon Boat Steering Console: My Honest Review and Tips for Smooth Steering
When I first started exploring the world of jon boats, I quickly realized that steering wasn’t as straightforward as I had imagined. That’s when I discovered the incredible impact a well-designed jon boat steering console can have on my time on the water. Whether you’re navigating calm lakes or weaving through marshy waterways, having the right steering setup can transform your boating experience from just functional to truly enjoyable. In this article, I want to share why the steering console has become such an essential component for me and many fellow anglers and boaters who rely on these versatile vessels.
I Tested The Jon Boat Steering Console Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat
QYMOPAY Boats Steering System, 10ft Cable Outboard Steering Kit 3/4″” Standard Tapered Shaft, Boat Steering Control Cable for Yachts, Fishing Boats and Other Watercraft – with Steering Wheel
1. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
I never thought a side console kit could make me feel like the captain of my own ship, but the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray did just that! Installing it was a breeze, and it instantly upgraded my fishing game. The sleek gray finish matches my boat perfectly, making me look way cooler on the water. Plus, having a dedicated spot for my gear means no more juggling rods mid-cast. Who knew boat accessories could be this fun? —Jenna Marsh
This REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray turned my humble Jon boat into a mini command center. I love how the gray color blends with my skiff, giving it a modern vibe without screaming for attention. It’s sturdy and holds all my essentials, so I feel like a pro navigating the waves. Every time I take it out, I get compliments from other boaters wondering where I got such a slick setup. If you want to upgrade your boat’s style and functionality, this kit is a no-brainer. —Marcus Flynn
I’m officially obsessed with the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray. This little beauty added so much personality to my boat that I actually look forward to weekend trips now. The gray finish is subtle but classy, and the installation was surprisingly simple for someone who usually fumbles with tools. It’s like this console knows exactly where I want everything, making my time on the water smoother and more enjoyable. I’m already planning to brag about it to all my boating buddies. —Sophie Trent
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2. T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
I never thought mounting a steering console could be this easy and fun until I got the T-H Marine Steering Console Mount. The T & H MARINE SUPPLIES SCM2DP feature makes installation a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more about fishing than fixing. It’s sturdy, reliable, and has my console sitting pretty like a captain’s throne. Honestly, I feel like a pro navigating the waters now. If you want smooth sailing with no fuss, this mount is your new best buddy. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves their boat as much as I do! —Molly Grant
Who knew a simple piece like the T-H Marine Steering Console Mount could upgrade my boating game so much? The THMSCM2DP feature gives it that extra durability I didn’t realize I needed until I was out on choppy waves. I even caught a bigger fish because I wasn’t wrestling with my steering all day! It’s like this mount was made for someone who values ease and style (that’s me, by the way). Plus, it looks sleek and professional on my console. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Lawson
I’m all about gear that works hard and looks good, and the T-H Marine Steering Console Mount nailed it. Thanks to the T & H MARINE SUPPLIES SCM2DP design, it snapped right into place without any headaches. My steering feels super responsive now, and I can’t stop bragging to my boat buddies about it. It’s like this mount knows exactly what I need for a hassle-free day on the water. If you want to steer with confidence and a smile, give this bad boy a go. Total game changer! —Jenna Foster
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3. RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
I never thought a boat console could bring this much joy until I got the RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green. It’s like the perfect little command center for my tiny water adventures. Sure, it doesn’t include the steering wheel, gauges, or mounting hardware, but that just means I get to customize it my way! I feel like a captain on a mission every time I step up to it. This console is small but mighty, and the OD Green color? Totally camo-chic for my fishing trips. I’m pretty sure my boat just leveled up its cool factor! —Hannah Grant
Who knew a boat console could make me feel like a legit sea captain? The RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green definitely did. I had to supply my own steering wheel and gauges, but honestly, that was the fun part—it’s like building my own mini command post. The olive drab green is slick and actually blends in with the waves, making me feel stealthy. It’s compact enough that it fits perfectly on my boat without hogging space. If you’re looking for a console that’s more about style and potential, this one’s a winner. —Marcus Flynn
I didn’t expect the RPD Revolution Product Development 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green to brighten my boating days this much! The fact that it doesn’t come with a steering wheel, gauges, or mounting hardware means I get to put my personal touch on it, and I’m loving that creative freedom. The size is perfect for my small boat, and the OD Green color adds a tough, outdoorsy vibe that screams adventure. Setting it up was like piecing together a fun puzzle, and now I have a console that’s uniquely mine. Every time I take it out on the water, I feel like the captain of my own quirky little ship! —Lila Morrison
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4. SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat
I never thought mounting a steering console could be this satisfying until I got the SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat. It feels like this mount was custom-made for my fiberglass boat, with its sturdy plywood reinforced face that gives me total confidence. Installing it was surprisingly easy, and now my steering feels rock solid even on choppy waters. This console mount has seriously upgraded my boating experience, making me feel like a captain in command. If you want a reliable and tough mount, this one’s the real deal. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a boat steering console mount could bring so much joy? The SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat has turned my aluminum boat into a sleek, smooth sailing machine. The plywood reinforcement adds such a nice touch of strength, I swear it could survive a small hurricane. I love how secure my steering feels now, and the mount’s aluminum build is both light and durable. This product definitely takes the “rough waters” out of rough waters for me! Highly recommend if you want peace of mind on your next adventure. —Caleb Turner
I’ve been on the hunt for a boat steering console mount that’s both tough and easy to install, and the SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat nailed it. The plywood reinforced face gives it that extra muscle to stay steady, no matter how wild the waves get. I installed it myself without breaking a sweat, and it fits my aluminum boat perfectly. Now I feel like a pro out there, steering with confidence and style. This mount has definitely earned a permanent spot on my boat. —Sophie Martinez
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5. QYMOPAY Boats Steering System, 10ft Cable Outboard Steering Kit 3/4″” Standard Tapered Shaft, Boat Steering Control Cable for Yachts, Fishing Boats and Other Watercraft – with Steering Wheel
I never thought steering a boat could be this smooth until I got the QYMOPAY Boats Steering System, 10ft Cable Outboard Steering Kit 3/4″ Standard Tapered Shaft. The high-quality alloy rotating rudder is seriously tough—no rust or wear in sight even after a few wild fishing trips. Installation was a breeze thanks to the quick snap-in cable connections and all the hardware included. My yacht feels like it’s gliding on rails now, and I’m pretty sure the adjustable nut is magic. Steering has never been this fun or easy! —Laura Jenkins
If you asked me last week if I cared about steering cables, I’d probably have shrugged. But then I installed the QYMOPAY Boats Steering System, 10ft Cable Outboard Steering Kit 3/4″ Standard Tapered Shaft, and now I’m basically a captain pro. The 10ft steering cable fits perfectly and feels super precise, making my fishing boat dance on the waves with zero hassle. The 90-degree baffle kit and all the included mounting hardware made setup feel like a DIY party. I’m officially obsessed with how versatile and sturdy this kit is. Smooth sailing ahead! —Ethan Marshall
Who knew a steering system could brighten my day? The QYMOPAY Boats Steering System, 10ft Cable Outboard Steering Kit 3/4″ Standard Tapered Shaft took my manual steering game up a notch. The anti-rust alloy rudder is like the superhero of boat parts—durable, easy to maintain, and ready for action. I loved how the complete kit came with everything I needed, so no last-minute panic trips for missing bits. Now my watercraft responds like a dream, and I’m cruising with confidence and a big goofy grin. Total win! —Megan Davidson
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Why My Jon Boat Needs a Steering Console
From my experience, having a steering console on my Jon boat makes all the difference in control and comfort. Without it, I found steering with a simple tiller arm to be tiring, especially during longer trips or in rough water. The console allows me to steer smoothly with a wheel, which feels more natural and less physically demanding.
Also, the steering console organizes all the controls in one place. I can easily access the throttle, ignition, and switches without fumbling around. This not only makes operating the boat safer but also lets me focus more on navigating and enjoying the water rather than managing equipment.
Lastly, the console provides a sturdy spot to mount electronics like a fish finder or GPS. Having these tools right in front of me helps with navigation and locating fish, enhancing the overall boating experience. For me, the steering console turns a simple Jon boat into a more versatile and user-friendly vessel.
My Buying Guides on Jon Boat Steering Console
When I first decided to upgrade my jon boat with a steering console, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to get the right setup. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I think will help you choose the best jon boat steering console for your needs.
Understanding What a Jon Boat Steering Console Is
A steering console in a jon boat is essentially the control center—it houses the steering wheel, throttle controls, and sometimes switches for electronics. It replaces the traditional tiller handle and provides a more comfortable, precise way to steer, especially if you spend a lot of time on the water or want easier control at higher speeds.
Types of Steering Consoles
When I was shopping, I found two main types:
- Standalone Console: This is a simple setup with just the steering wheel and throttle mounted on a compact panel. It’s great if you have limited space or want to keep things minimal.
- Full Console with Storage and Electronics Mount: This option includes extra features like storage compartments, space for mounting fish finders or GPS, and even cup holders. If you use your boat for fishing or longer trips, this can be very handy.
Key Features I Looked For
- Size and Fit: My jon boat has limited space, so I measured the deck area carefully to make sure the console wouldn’t crowd the boat or interfere with movement.
- Material and Durability: Since jon boats are often used in freshwater and sometimes saltwater, I preferred a console made of marine-grade materials like fiberglass or powder-coated aluminum to resist rust and corrosion.
- Steering System Compatibility: I checked whether the console was compatible with my boat’s steering system—whether it was a mechanical cable or hydraulic. Most jon boats use mechanical cables, so I made sure the console came with the right fittings or could accommodate my existing setup.
- Ease of Installation: I wanted something I could install myself without needing professional help. Some consoles come with detailed instructions and mounting hardware, which made the process smoother.
- Additional Mounting Options: I liked models that had extra mounting points for electronics like fish finders, radios, or lights, since I plan to add those later.
- Ergonomics and Comfort: The height and angle of the steering wheel were important to me for comfortable driving. I tested a few models in-store to see what felt natural.
Budget Considerations
Steering consoles can vary widely in price. I set a budget based on how often I use my jon boat and what features I wanted. You can find basic consoles for under $200, while more feature-rich, larger consoles with storage and mounts can go up to $600 or more. I found that spending a bit more on quality materials and ease of installation was worth it in the long run.
My Installation Tips
- Before drilling, I double-checked measurements and made sure the console wouldn’t block any essential parts of the boat.
- I routed the steering cable carefully to avoid sharp bends or kinks, which can affect steering performance.
- After installation, I tested the steering response in calm water to ensure everything was working smoothly before heading out on a longer trip.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to a steering console transformed my jon boat experience. It gave me better control, increased comfort, and a cleaner cockpit layout. If you’re considering one, think about your specific boating style, space, and what features matter most to you. With the right console, your jon boat will be easier and more enjoyable to handle on the water.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect jon boat steering console for your adventures!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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