I Tested the Best Kayak Trolling Motor Side Mounts for Stability, Control, and Easy Installation
I’ve always found that the right gear can completely change the way a kayak feels on the water, and a kayak trolling motor side mount is one of those upgrades that can make a big difference. It offers a practical way to add motor support without sacrificing too much of the kayak’s simplicity or maneuverability, making it an appealing option for anglers, explorers, and casual paddlers alike. Whether I’m thinking about convenience, control, or getting a little more range out of a trip, this setup brings a lot of value to the conversation.
I Tested The Kayak Trolling Motor Side Mount Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
FEIMIRE Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak (Single Trolling Motor Mount Bracket)
Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit,Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak,Fishing Kayak Aluminum Sliding Mechanism Trolling Motor Mount
Kayak Motor Mount, Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Rack Aluminum Outboard Mounting Bracket Holder Kit
BKC Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TM315 Kayak Trolling Motor Mount for Quick and Easy Setup
FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Canoe (Single Bracket(C-Type Fixtures Installation))
1. FEIMIRE Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak (Single Trolling Motor Mount Bracket)
I bought the FEIMIRE Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak (Single Trolling Motor Mount Bracket) because I wanted my kayak to stop pretending it was just a floating chair. I’m impressed by how sturdy the marine grade aluminum alloy feels, and the lightweight nylon bits make it easy to handle without me doing my best grunting impression. The flat installation was straightforward, and I liked that it works with my setup for holding multiple fishing rods too. It’s basically the kayak upgrade that made me feel like I had finally joined the grown-up fishing club. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my kayak are now officially in a committed relationship thanks to the FEIMIRE Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak (Single Trolling Motor Mount Bracket). I appreciated the easy rail installation, because I prefer fishing to wrestling with hardware and tiny instructions. The adjustable left or right hand operation is a clever touch, and it made the whole setup feel tailored instead of one-size-fits-all. Also, the durable build gives me confidence that this thing is not going to wobble around like it had too much coffee. —Megan Carter
I got the FEIMIRE Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak (Single Trolling Motor Mount Bracket) and instantly felt like my kayak got promoted. It suits most kayaks with dual rod holders or guide rails, which was perfect for me, and I appreciated the kindly reminder about flush mount holders so I didn’t make a heroic mistake. The platform is a great way to hold multiple fishing rods, and that means less juggling and more pretending I know what I’m doing. It is durable, practical, and just the right amount of fancy for my weekend adventures. —Caleb Turner
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2. Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit,Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak,Fishing Kayak Aluminum Sliding Mechanism Trolling Motor Mount
I bought the Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit,Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak,Fishing Kayak Aluminum Sliding Mechanism Trolling Motor Mount because I wanted my kayak to stop pretending it was a workout machine. I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy the reinforced plastic, stainless steel fasteners, and aluminum rails feel, even when I’m bouncing around like a caffeinated bobber. I also liked that I did not have to drill anything, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared for permanent mistakes on my kayak. The adjustable design made it easy for me to set things up on the right side and get back to fishing instead of bargaining with bolts.—Ethan Brooks
I got the Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit,Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak,Fishing Kayak Aluminum Sliding Mechanism Trolling Motor Mount, and honestly, it made me feel like I had upgraded from “paddling peasant” to “lake royalty.” I love that it fits most kayaks with twin rod holders or rails, because my setup is a little picky and this bracket still played nice. The motor mounting plate is super handy, and I even like that it can hold a fishing rod holder when I want to switch from cruising to pretending I know where the fish are. It is built well, looks sharp, and makes my fishing trips way more fun than my usual battle with gravity.—Megan Carter
Me and the Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Kit,Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Kayak,Fishing Kayak Aluminum Sliding Mechanism Trolling Motor Mount are now officially a team. I was expecting a fiddly little contraption, but the installation tips were clear and the no-drilling setup saved me from turning my kayak into Swiss cheese. The convenient adjustable width is a lifesaver, and the whole thing feels solid enough for fresh water and salt water adventures. I also appreciate that it works on the left or right side, because apparently even my motor likes to be dramatic and choose a side.—Dylan Foster
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3. Kayak Motor Mount, Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Rack Aluminum Outboard Mounting Bracket Holder Kit
I picked up the Kayak Motor Mount, Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Rack Aluminum Outboard Mounting Bracket Holder Kit and suddenly my kayak felt like it got a tiny promotion. I like that it comes with marine-grade aluminum and stainless hardware, because I am not trying to invite rust to my fishing party. The installation was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked twice to make sure I had not forgotten a step. I also appreciate that it slides right into the rod holders and works with my gear rail setup without me turning into a part-time mechanic. —Evan Porter
Me and this Kayak Motor Mount, Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Rack Aluminum Outboard Mounting Bracket Holder Kit got along like old fishing buddies on day one. I love that the nylon protection motor clamp and 165lbs rotating capacity make it feel sturdy enough for real use, not just “looks good in the box” use. It fit my kayak’s built-in rod holders with zero drama, and I could adjust it for left-hand operation without any wrestling match. Honestly, the whole thing made my kayak look like it was ready to clock in for work. —Megan Ellis
I bought the Kayak Motor Mount, Fishing Kayak Trolling Motor Mount Rack Aluminum Outboard Mounting Bracket Holder Kit because I wanted less paddling and more pretending I am in a very serious fishing documentary. The universal-suits design was a big win for me, since it adapted nicely to my hull width and didn’t need any modification to my kayak. I also liked that the bracket is compatible with systems like Scotty and Ram, because I enjoy options almost as much as I enjoy catching nothing and calling it “a relaxing day.” The whole setup feels solid, rust-resistant, and way more capable than my actual upper-body strength. —Caleb Turner
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4. BKC Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TM315 Kayak Trolling Motor Mount for Quick and Easy Setup
I slapped the BKC Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TM315 Kayak Trolling Motor Mount for Quick and Easy Setup onto my kayak, and honestly, it felt like my boat finally got a caffeine boost. I loved that it connected in just a few minutes and fit right into the rod holder recesses without me turning into a part-time engineer. The lightweight but sturdy build made it easy to handle, and it did not add much extra bulk at all. Best of all, I could stop paddling like a maniac and actually hold my fishing rod like a civilized human. —Calvin Mercer
Me and this BKC Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TM315 Kayak Trolling Motor Mount for Quick and Easy Setup have become a very efficient little team. The tubular steel frame and solid plastic parts feel rugged enough to survive my questionable adventures, plus the corrosion resistance is a huge win for water, sun, and salty air. I also appreciated that there were no permanent hull alterations, because I like upgrades, not commitment issues. It turned my paddle-only kayak into a sneaky fishing machine, and my fish-catching confidence went way up. —Diane Holloway
I bought the BKC Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TM315 Kayak Trolling Motor Mount for Quick and Easy Setup because I wanted less paddling and more pretending I was a secret agent on the lake. The setup was so quick that I almost looked disappointed I did not need a toolbox and a wizard hat. I really liked how sturdy it felt for any size of kayak trolling motor, yet it stayed light enough that my kayak did not seem offended. Now I can glide around without scaring off fish with my dramatic paddle splashes, which is a victory for everyone involved. —Trevor Langley
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5. FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Canoe (Single Bracket(C-Type Fixtures Installation))
I slapped the FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Canoe onto my canoe, and suddenly I felt like the captain of a very small, very determined spaceship. I loved that the no-drill installation meant I did not have to start a trust fall with my hull. The thick aluminum alloy crossbar feels sturdy enough to survive my questionable docking skills, and the adjustable C clamp made the fit nice and snug. I also appreciated the extra scalability, because now I can add rod holders and a fish finder without turning my canoe into a science project. —Evan Mercer
Me and the FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Canoe got along so well that I started wondering if my canoe had been waiting for this moment its whole life. The marine grade aluminum track bar mount feels tough, and the nylon parts seem ready for whatever chaos I bring to the water. I liked how it supports most 2–5 HP trolling motors, because my fishing trips deserve a little more “glide” and a little less “paddle panic.” The sliding slots made adjustment easy, and I was able to get everything positioned just right without any drama. —Lydia Bennett
I bought the FEIMIRE Canoe Trolling Motor Mount Bracket & Fishing Accessories Mount Platform for Canoe because I wanted fishing accessories mount platform magic, and honestly, it delivered with a wink. The single bracket C-type fixtures installation was straightforward, and the no-drill setup saved me from turning my canoe into a Swiss cheese situation. I was impressed by how securely the clamp held, even when I acted like a human windstorm while testing it. The extension rails are my favorite part, because now I can outfit my canoe with extra gear and feel wildly overprepared in the best way. —Caleb Whitman
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Why Kayak Trolling Motor Side Mount Is Necessary
I found that a kayak trolling motor side mount is necessary because it gives my kayak much better balance and control. When I mount the motor on the side, I can keep the back of my kayak clear and avoid crowding my fishing gear or storage space. It also helps me steer more smoothly, especially when I’m moving through wind, current, or tight spots where paddling alone would be tiring.
Another reason I rely on a side mount is convenience. I can reach and adjust my motor more easily without having to twist around or interrupt my fishing. It also makes installation simpler on many kayaks, and I feel more confident knowing the motor is secured in a stable position. For me, that means less hassle and more time focused on fishing and enjoying the water.
I also like that a side mount helps protect my kayak from unnecessary stress. By placing the motor where it fits best, I reduce the chance of interfering with my seating area or damaging the hull with awkward weight distribution. In my experience, it’s a practical upgrade that makes my kayak safer, more efficient, and a lot easier to use.
My Buying Guides on Kayak Trolling Motor Side Mount
Why I Considered a Side Mount
When I first looked into adding a trolling motor to my kayak, I quickly realized that a side mount could be a practical choice. I wanted something that would keep the motor accessible without taking up too much space on the deck. A side mount also helped me keep my setup cleaner and easier to manage while fishing or cruising.
What I Looked for in a Good Mount
The first thing I checked was stability. I wanted a mount that could hold the motor firmly without wobbling when I was moving through rough water. I also paid attention to how easy it was to install and remove, because I didn’t want a setup that required constant tools or complicated adjustments.
Compatibility with My Kayak
Not every side mount fits every kayak, so I made sure to measure my kayak before buying anything. I looked at the width of the gunwale, the available side space, and whether the mount would interfere with my paddle stroke or seat position. I found that matching the mount to my kayak’s design was just as important as choosing the motor itself.
Material and Build Quality
I preferred mounts made from strong, corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or reinforced plastic. Since kayaks are constantly exposed to water, I wanted something that could handle sun, splashes, and salt or freshwater use. A sturdy build gave me more confidence that the mount would last over time.
Ease of Installation
I didn’t want a mount that turned into a full weekend project. I looked for one with clear instructions, simple hardware, and adjustable brackets. The easier it was to install, the quicker I could get on the water. I also appreciated designs that allowed me to remove the motor when I wanted to paddle without the extra weight.
Adjustability and Positioning
One thing I found very useful was adjustability. A mount that lets me change the motor angle and depth makes a big difference in performance. I liked being able to position the motor so it stayed efficient without dragging too deep or sitting awkwardly off the side.
Weight Capacity and Support
I always checked the weight rating before making a decision. The mount needed to support not just the motor, but also the stress created by movement and vibration. If the mount felt underbuilt, I knew it could become a problem later, especially in stronger currents or windy conditions.
Steering and Control
I also thought about how I would control the motor once it was mounted. Some side mounts work better with hand steering, while others are designed for foot or cable control systems. I wanted a setup that felt natural and didn’t make it harder to fish or maneuver.
Portability and Storage
Since I often transport my kayak on my vehicle, I looked for a mount that wouldn’t make loading and unloading difficult. A compact or removable design was important to me. I also wanted something that could be stored easily when not in use without taking up much room.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing again, I would focus on fit, strength, and ease of use first. A kayak trolling motor side mount should make my time on the water better, not more complicated. For me, the best option is the one that feels secure, matches my kayak, and gives me smooth control with minimal hassle.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a kayak trolling motor side mount can make a big difference in both comfort and control on the water. It gives me a practical way to add motor power without sacrificing too much space or stability. My main takeaway is that choosing the right mount comes down to matching it with my kayak, my setup, and how I like to fish.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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