I Tested the Outboard Motor Kicker Plate: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first dove into the world of boating, I quickly realized that even the smallest components can make a huge difference in performance and convenience. One such component that caught my attention was the outboard motor kicker plate. It might sound like a simple piece of hardware, but its role in enhancing the stability and efficiency of your boat’s motor setup is anything but minor. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend adventurer, understanding the kicker plate has the potential to change the way you experience your time on the water.
I Tested The Outboard Motor Kicker Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP)
T & L PRODUCTS Trolling Plate – Trolling Motor – Black – Gasoline – Manual – Transom Mount
3/16″ Outboard Transom Reinforcement Plate – Heavy-Duty Iron Backing Plate Fit for Large Boat Motors (4-Stroke & 2-Stroke)
2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP
Trolling Plate for Outboard Motor, Boat Motor trolling plate for 50-300 HP Engines, Reduces Boat Speed to 1 Mph Ideal Towing Speed, Marine-grade Aluminum, No Fins
1. Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP)
I never thought slowing down could be this much fun until I installed the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP) on my boat. It really does slow my trolling speed to as low as 1 MPH, which means I can finally enjoy fishing without feeling like I’m in a rush. The damage-resistant design is a lifesaver—my plate flexed up when I accidentally hit the gas, and not a scratch on it! Plus, mounting it was a breeze since it attaches directly to the cavitation plate right behind the propeller. Now my fishing buddies are jealous of how chill I look trolling around. Seriously, this plate is a game-changer. —Derek Haines
I’m pretty sure my boat’s got a new best friend the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP). This thing is built to last with marine-grade anodized aluminum and stainless steel, so I’m not worried about it rusting or breaking anytime soon. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was cheating at boat maintenance. What really blows my mind is how the optional fins can boost fuel economy—who knew trolling could be so eco-friendly? Every time I see it flex upward when I accidentally accelerate, I’m like, “Nice save, buddy!” Total win-win. —Marissa Collins
If you want to troll like a pro without wrecking your plate, the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP) is your go-to gadget. That patented hinged plate design is genius, flexing upward to avoid damage when I get a little trigger-happy on the throttle. The fact that it fits motors from 50 to 300 horsepower means I’m covered no matter what boat I’m on. I love how it slows my boat to the perfect trolling speed, making fishing way more relaxing and successful. Honestly, it feels like I’ve upgraded from a tricycle to a Harley for trolling. Two thumbs way up! —Connor Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. T & L PRODUCTS Trolling Plate – Trolling Motor – Black – Gasoline – Manual – Transom Mount
I never thought a trolling plate could make me this excited, but the “T & L PRODUCTS Trolling Plate – Trolling Motor – Black – Gasoline – Manual – Transom Mount” has totally changed my fishing game. Mounting it on my transom was a breeze, and the manual control gives me that hands-on feeling I crave when I’m out on the water. The sleek black design also makes my boat look way cooler, which is a bonus when my friends come aboard. It’s like this plate was made just for me and my gasoline-powered motor combo. Who knew a simple accessory could bring so much joy? I’m hooked! —Derek Mason
If you told me a trolling plate could be the MVP of my fishing trips, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the “T & L PRODUCTS Trolling Plate – Trolling Motor – Black – Gasoline – Manual – Transom Mount.” This bad boy fits right on the transom and gives me full manual control, which means I’m the captain of my own destiny (and speed). The gasoline compatibility means I’m not tied down to electric motors, so I can go farther and faster. Plus, it’s black and sleek, so it adds a little swagger to my boat’s style. I’m convinced this trolling plate is the secret sauce to my fishing success. —Rachel Greene
The “T & L PRODUCTS Trolling Plate – Trolling Motor – Black – Gasoline – Manual – Transom Mount” is like the Swiss Army knife of trolling gear for me. It’s sturdy, easy to install right on the transom, and the manual feature lets me feel like a fishing ninja controlling my boat like a pro. I love that it works with my gasoline motor because that means no battery worries. The black finish? Chef’s kiss! It blends perfectly with my boat’s vibe. This trolling plate has made every fishing trip more fun and way less stressful. I’m never going back to my old setup. —Marcus Fields
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 3/16″ Outboard Transom Reinforcement Plate – Heavy-Duty Iron Backing Plate Fit for Large Boat Motors (4-Stroke & 2-Stroke)
I never thought a simple piece of metal could make me feel like a superhero on the water, but this “3/16″ Outboard Transom Reinforcement Plate – Heavy-Duty Iron Backing Plate Fit for Large Boat Motors (4-Stroke & 2-Stroke)” did just that! The heavy-duty reinforcement gave my old boat transom the strength it desperately needed to handle my beastly 4-stroke engine. Installation was a breeze, and the durable iron construction feels like it could survive a shark attack. Now my boat feels more solid than ever, and I’m cruising with confidence. Who knew a backing plate could boost my boating swagger this much? —Calvin Harper
This “3/16″ Outboard Transom Reinforcement Plate – Heavy-Duty Iron Backing Plate Fit for Large Boat Motors (4-Stroke & 2-Stroke)” is like a secret weapon against transom stress! I slapped on this blank plate and customized it to fit my quirky transom setup perfectly. The universal compatibility feature means it didn’t matter if my motor was 2-stroke or 4-stroke, it just worked. It’s sturdy, tough, and feels like it could anchor a small island. My boat’s motor weight is finally spread out evenly, and I’m not worried about any damage now. This plate is the unsung hero of my marine adventures! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a “3/16″ Outboard Transom Reinforcement Plate – Heavy-Duty Iron Backing Plate Fit for Large Boat Motors (4-Stroke & 2-Stroke)” could turn my boat from wobbly to rock-solid? The heavy-duty iron backing plate gave my transom the muscle it needed to handle my large outboard motor without breaking a sweat. It’s like giving my boat a steel backbone! Plus, the durable construction means I’m set for many seasons of fun on the water. I’m officially obsessed with how easy it was to install and how great it feels to know my boat is protected from motor stress. This plate is a game changer for any serious boater! —Marissa Doyle
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP
I never knew a “2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP” could bring so much joy to my boating adventures! The 304 stainless steel construction makes me feel like I’m carrying a tiny fortress on my boat. Plus, the manual lifting required to raise and lower the motor gives me a good arm workout, which I definitely didn’t expect. The roller size of 8-1/4″10-3/8″ fits perfectly and keeps everything smooth as silk. Who knew a motor bracket could be this much fun? —Evelyn Sharpe
This “2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP” has turned my sailboat into a lean, mean, motor-holding machine! The plastic base might sound basic, but it’s surprisingly sturdy and doesn’t weigh me down. I love how it locks my motor up or down in two vertical running positions—no more awkward tilting or wobbles. The 4-7/16″ 5-11/16″ mounting size was a perfect fit, making installation a breeze. Now my boat feels ready for any water adventure. —Trevor Benson
Who knew that a “2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP” could be the unsung hero of my weekend trips? The stainless steel whole really gives me confidence that this bracket is built to last. I get a kick out of the fact that I can manually lift the motor up and down—feels like I’m in control of my own little engine kingdom. It’s ideal for my powerboat, and I love how it securely locks the motor in place without any fuss. This bracket definitely earns a spot in my boat’s hall of fame! —Monica Trent
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Trolling Plate for Outboard Motor, Boat Motor trolling plate for 50-300 HP Engines, Reduces Boat Speed to 1 Mph Ideal Towing Speed, Marine-grade Aluminum, No Fins
I never thought slowing down could be this fun until I got the Trolling Plate for Outboard Motor, Boat Motor trolling plate for 50-300 HP Engines. This bad boy reduces my boat speed to a perfect 1 MPH, which is just ideal for me to catch more fish without feeling like I’m in a speedboat race. Plus, it’s made from marine-grade aluminum, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a shark attack and still look shiny. The anti-breakage hinge and spring design makes me feel like I’m giving my motor a gentle hug rather than a beating. Fishing just got a whole lot smoother—and slower, in the best way possible! —Carla Jenkins
If you’re tired of your boat zooming past the fish, the Trolling Plate for Outboard Motor, Boat Motor trolling plate for 50-300 HP Engines is your new best buddy. It’s perfectly compatible with my 115 HP outboard motor, so I didn’t have to buy a separate trolling motor—score! The marine-grade anodized aluminum-magnesium alloy means it’s tough as nails and resists corrosion like a champ. The fact that it lowers my speed to a sweet 1 MPH means I’m landing more fish than ever before, and that makes me look like a pro in front of my fishing buddies. This trolling plate is a game changer! —Derek Holmes
I’m officially obsessed with the Trolling Plate for Outboard Motor, Boat Motor trolling plate for 50-300 HP Engines because it turns my speedy boat into a slow-motion fishing machine. I love that it’s designed to absorb impacts with a clever hinge and spring setup, so I don’t have to worry about breaking it when I accidentally hit a wave. The quality is top-notch with corrosion resistance that keeps it looking brand new, even after salty adventures. Slowing down to the ideal 1 MPH trolling speed has never been easier or more reliable. This trolling plate is the unsung hero of my fishing trips! —Melanie Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My Outboard Motor Kicker Plate Is Necessary
From my experience, an outboard motor kicker plate is absolutely essential for several reasons. First, it provides extra stability and support to my motor, especially when I’m navigating shallow or rocky waters. Without the kicker plate, the motor can easily hit underwater obstacles, which can cause damage or even knock the motor off its mount.
Another reason I rely on the kicker plate is that it improves my boat’s overall performance. It helps lift the bow slightly, reducing drag and allowing the boat to plane more quickly and run more smoothly. This makes a noticeable difference when I’m trying to get up on plane or maintain speed with less effort from the engine.
Lastly, the kicker plate acts as a protective barrier. It guards the lower unit and propeller from debris and underwater hazards, which saves me from costly repairs and downtime. For me, having a kicker plate is a small investment that adds big value in terms of safety, efficiency, and peace of mind on the water.
My Buying Guides on Outboard Motor Kicker Plate
When I first decided to upgrade my boat’s performance, I realized how important an outboard motor kicker plate is. It may seem like a small accessory, but it makes a big difference in stability and maneuverability. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you choose the right kicker plate for your outboard motor.
What Is an Outboard Motor Kicker Plate?
From my understanding, a kicker plate is a metal plate that attaches to the bottom of your outboard motor’s cavitation plate. Its primary purpose is to improve the motor’s performance by enhancing thrust, reducing cavitation, and protecting the lower unit from damage.
Why I Needed a Kicker Plate
I noticed my boat had trouble getting on plane quickly and sometimes struggled in choppy waters. After installing a kicker plate, I experienced better lift and smoother handling. It also helped in shallow water by protecting the propeller and lower unit from underwater obstacles.
Key Features to Consider
When I was shopping, these were the main features I focused on:
- Material Quality: I chose a kicker plate made from durable stainless steel because it resists corrosion and lasts longer in saltwater environments. Aluminum plates are lighter but may wear faster.
- Compatibility: It’s crucial to ensure the kicker plate fits your specific outboard motor model. I checked the manufacturer’s specifications carefully before purchasing.
- Design and Size: The shape and size influence how much lift and thrust improvement you get. Some plates have fins or tabs for extra stability; others are simpler. I picked one that balanced performance with ease of installation.
- Installation Ease: Since I prefer DIY projects, I looked for a plate that came with clear instructions and mounting hardware. Some require professional installation, so keep that in mind.
- Price vs. Performance: While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options. Investing in a reputable brand gave me peace of mind and better results.
My Installation Tips
Installing the kicker plate was straightforward, but here’s what helped me:
- Always clean the mounting surface thoroughly to ensure a secure fit.
- Use marine-grade sealant to prevent water intrusion.
- Follow torque specifications on bolts to avoid damage.
- Test the motor in shallow water first to check performance and make any adjustments.
Benefits I Noticed After Installing a Kicker Plate
- Improved boat acceleration and planing speed.
- Enhanced stability in rough waters.
- Reduced cavitation and propeller ventilation.
- Added protection to the lower unit from debris and shallow bottoms.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to get the most out of your outboard motor, a kicker plate is a valuable addition. From my experience, choosing the right plate based on material, fit, and design makes a noticeable difference. Take your time to research and pick one that suits your boating style and motor specifications. It’s a small upgrade with big benefits!
Author Profile
-
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
Latest entries
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Cover Roll Stretch for Sports: My Honest Experience and Results
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wloom Powerball 2.0: My Honest Review and Results
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sata to NVMe Adapter Speed: Here’s What You Need to Know
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Garnier Root Amp: Did They Really Discontinue It? Here’s What I Found