Kayak Trolling Motor Mount: Easy DIY Guide

Last Updated on August 1, 2026 by Jaxon Mike

You can absolutely make your own trolling motor mount for a kayak without breaking the bank. Many kayak anglers build custom mounts using simple, affordable materials. This approach saves money and lets you tailor the mount to your specific kayak and needs.

Attaching a trolling motor can dramatically change your fishing game. It lets you hold your position in wind or current and quietly explore new spots. Building your own mount means you control the design for optimal performance and easy installation.

• DIY trolling motor mounts are budget-friendly.
• Custom mounts fit your kayak perfectly.
• They let you hold position and fish effectively.
• Build one with common hardware store items.

Let’s walk through exactly how you can build a sturdy and functional trolling motor mount for your kayak.

“`html

Building Your Own Kayak Trolling Motor Mount

You’re ready to take your kayak fishing to the next level. A trolling motor is fantastic for holding your spot or moving silently. But buying a mount can add up. Luckily, building your own DIY trolling motor mount is totally achievable. We’ll guide you through the process using materials you can find at any hardware store. This project is surprisingly straightforward and lets you customize the mount for your kayak.

Essential Considerations Before You Build

Before you grab your tools, let’s think about what makes a good trolling motor mount. Your mount needs to be sturdy and secure. It has to handle the vibration and torque of the motor. Safety is also key; a loose mount could cause problems. Think about where you want the motor to sit. Will it be on the port side, starboard side, or even the bow? Your choice impacts how you steer and fish. Many anglers find a side mount is easiest for access.

Choosing the Right Materials

The beauty of a DIY mount is using readily available materials. You can often find everything you need at a local hardware store or even online. Common choices include:

• Plywood or Marine-grade lumber: This forms the main structure. Look for 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch thickness.
• PVC pipes and fittings: Great for creating adjustable supports or a solid base.
• Metal brackets and hardware: Stainless steel bolts, nuts, washers, and U-bolts are essential for a strong connection.
• Cutting board material: Some anglers use HDPE cutting boards for a slick, durable surface.

We found that using a combination of wood and PVC offers good strength and adjustability. Always opt for corrosion-resistant hardware. Your kayak will be in saltwater or freshwater, and you don’t want rust compromising your mount.

Designing Your Mount

There’s no single “right” way to design a kayak trolling motor mount. It depends on your kayak’s hull shape and your personal preferences. Think about the motor’s weight and how it will balance on the kayak. A common approach is a base that clamps or bolts to the gunwale (the top edge) of your kayak. From there, an arm extends out to hold the motor. Some designs include a pivot so you can easily swing the motor out of the water when not in use.

Simple Side-Mount Design

A basic side-mount can be made with a sturdy piece of wood. You’ll need a way to attach it securely to your kayak. U-bolts are a popular choice for wrapping around the gunwale. On the wooden base, you’ll create a cradle or bracket to hold the trolling motor’s shaft. Make sure this part is snug to prevent the motor from shifting. We researched several designs, and many suggest adding rubber or foam padding to protect both the kayak and the motor.

Adjustable Mount Ideas

Want to tweak the motor’s position? PVC pipes can help. You can create a sleeve system where one pipe slides inside another. This allows you to adjust the height or reach of your motor. Connecting these with fittings like elbows and tees lets you build a custom frame. Remember to use PVC primer and cement for strong, permanent bonds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Mount

Let’s get building! We’ll cover a popular, versatile design that many kayakers find effective. This process assumes you have basic DIY skills and access to common tools.

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

You’ll need:

• Safety glasses and gloves
• Measuring tape
• Saw (hand saw, jigsaw, or circular saw)
• Drill and drill bits
• Wrench or socket set
• Sandpaper
• Pencil or marker
• Your chosen lumber (e.g., a 2×6 or 2×8 piece of wood, about 2-3 feet long)
• PVC pipes, connectors (e.g., 1.5-inch diameter), and end caps
• Stainless steel U-bolts (sized for your kayak’s gunwale)
• Stainless steel bolts, nuts, and washers
• Optional: Rubber matting or foam padding

Researching different kayak gunwale thicknesses is a good idea. This helps ensure your U-bolts fit perfectly. A snug fit prevents movement.

Preparing the Base Piece

Take your piece of wood. This will be the main support that attaches to your kayak. Measure and mark where the U-bolts will go. You want them spaced to provide a stable connection. Drill holes for the U-bolts. Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper. If you’re adding a motor cradle directly to this piece, now is a good time to shape it.

Constructing the Motor Support Arm

This is where your PVC or additional wood comes in. You might create a sturdy arm that extends from the base. For a PVC design, you could use a larger diameter pipe as the base sleeve and a smaller one that slides for adjustment. Cut the pipes to your desired lengths. Use fittings to create a strong connection point for the motor. Many experts suggest making this arm slightly angled to keep the motor clear of the water when stowed.

Assembling the Mount Components

Now, put it all together. Mount the PVC structure (or wooden arm) onto your base piece using bolts and washers. Ensure all connections are tight. If you’re using rubber padding, attach it to the surfaces that will contact your kayak and the motor. This adds grip and prevents scratches. We found that using lock nuts on bolts is a smart move. They help prevent loosening from vibration.

Attaching the Mount to Your Kayak

This is the moment of truth! Carefully position the mount on the side of your kayak. Slide the U-bolts over the gunwale and through the holes in your base piece. Secure them with the nuts and washers. Tighten them evenly. Don’t overtighten, as you could damage your kayak. The mount should feel solid and stable. It shouldn’t wiggle or shift significantly.

Testing and Adjusting

Before you hit the water, give it a good shake. Does it feel secure? Now, mount your trolling motor. Does it fit snugly in its holder? Can you easily deploy and stow the motor? Make any necessary adjustments. You might need to tighten bolts or reposition the motor cradle. A bit of tweaking can make a big difference in performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly on the first try. Don’t get discouraged! We’ve seen a few common hiccups people run into.

Mount Wobbles or Shifts

If your mount feels loose, it’s usually an issue with the connection to the kayak. Double-check that your U-bolts are tight and evenly distributed. Sometimes, adding a piece of non-slip material under the U-bolt clamp can help. Ensure the wood base is flat against the kayak’s side.

Motor Doesn’t Fit Securely

This might mean your motor cradle isn’t tight enough. You may need to add shims or padding. Sometimes, adjusting the angle of the cradle helps. We found that checking the motor’s shaft diameter is key. Make sure your mount is built to spec for your motor.

Clearance Issues

Is the motor hitting your paddle or your legs? You might need to adjust the length or angle of your motor support arm. A bit of repositioning or a redesign using PVC elbows could solve this.

Here’s a quick checklist to ensure your build is solid:

• Is your mount material strong enough for the motor’s weight?
• Are all metal connections stainless steel and tightened properly?
• Does the mount attach securely to your kayak’s gunwales?
• Is the motor cradle snug and vibration-resistant?
• Can you easily deploy and stow the motor?
• Does the mount interfere with your paddling or fishing?

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you’ll have a custom trolling motor mount ready for your next adventure. Happy fishing!

“`

Conclusion

You’ve learned how to build your own kayak trolling motor mount, a project that’s both practical and rewarding. By using readily available materials like wood and PVC, you can create a secure and custom-fit mount for your kayak. Remember to prioritize sturdy construction and corrosion-resistant hardware for long-lasting performance. Take your time during assembly, test for stability, and make adjustments as needed. Now, go out there and enjoy a more controlled and stealthy fishing experience on the water!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wood is best for a DIY kayak trolling motor mount?

For your DIY mount, marine-grade plywood or lumber is recommended. Look for thicknesses of 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch. This type of wood is more resistant to moisture and decay than standard lumber, ensuring your mount lasts longer in wet conditions.

How do I ensure the mount is securely attached to my kayak?

The most common and secure method is using stainless steel U-bolts that wrap around your kayak’s gunwale. Ensure the U-bolts are the correct size for your kayak and tighten them evenly. Adding a non-slip material under the U-bolt clamp can also provide extra stability.

Can I use PVC pipe for the motor support arm?

Yes, PVC pipes and fittings are excellent for creating adjustable motor support arms. You can create a sliding sleeve system for height adjustment or use elbows and tees to achieve the desired angle. Always use PVC primer and cement for strong, permanent bonds.

What are the best ways to prevent the trolling motor from shifting or wobbling?

A snug motor cradle is essential. You can add rubber matting or foam padding to the cradle where the motor shaft sits. This provides extra grip and absorbs vibrations. Ensure all bolts connecting the mount components are tightened securely, and consider using lock nuts to prevent loosening.

How can I adjust the position or angle of the motor mount?

Adjustability can be built into your design using PVC pipes, where one pipe slides inside another for height or length changes. For angle adjustments, you can use PVC elbow fittings or strategically place wooden blocks between the base and the support arm. Test different positions before permanently securing components.