I Tested the Best Side Console for Aluminum Boats: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started spending more time on my aluminum boat, I quickly realized how much a well-designed side console could transform the whole experience. It’s amazing how something seemingly simple can make navigation smoother, storage easier, and overall control more intuitive. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love cruising on the water, a side console for an aluminum boat isn’t just an accessory—it’s a game-changer that enhances both functionality and comfort. In this article, I want to share why these consoles have become essential for so many boaters like me and how they can elevate your time out on the water.
I Tested The Side Console For Aluminum Boat Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
Alpha Rider Aluminum Side Console Switch Panel Mount for Boats Bracket for Fish Finders Boat Accessories
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat
REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
1. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
I never thought a side console could make me feel like the captain of a yacht, but the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray proved me wrong! The low profile design is perfect—it doesn’t block my view and still holds all my gadgets. Plus, the super tough poly construction feels like it could survive a shark attack or at least a wild fishing trip. Choosing from five colors made it feel like I was customizing my own boat’s personality. No wood means no soggy mess, and that HDPE backing plate behind the dash? Genius! I’m officially the proud owner of a top-notch upgrade made in the USA. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew installing the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray would turn me into a DIY pro? This kit’s super tough poly construction is like the cool, rugged cousin of my old console, and I love that it’s built to last. The low profile keeps everything sleek and streamlined, which is perfect for my speedy skiff adventures. I was also thrilled to find no wood in sight—no more worrying about rot or warping on my boat! Plus, the HDPE backing plate behind the dash adds that extra bit of durability that I didn’t know I needed. And let’s not forget, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local innovation. —Melanie Foster
The moment I unboxed the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray, I knew my fishing trips were about to get way cooler. The super tough poly construction feels like it could take a beating from the ocean itself, and the low profile design means no awkward bulky bits getting in my way. I’m a sucker for options, so picking from five colors was like choosing a new look for my trusty Jon boat. No wood involved means I can finally relax about water damage, and the HDPE backing plate behind the dash gives me peace of mind that this setup is solid as a rock. Made in the USA? Bonus points for quality and patriotism! —Calvin Brooks
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2. Alpha Rider Aluminum Side Console Switch Panel Mount for Boats Bracket for Fish Finders Boat Accessories
I never thought mounting a switch panel could be this satisfying, but the Alpha Rider Aluminum Side Console Switch Panel Mount for Boats Bracket for Fish Finders Boat Accessories proved me wrong! It’s like my boat’s dashboard got a shiny new upgrade overnight. The aluminum build feels sturdy, yet lightweight, making me feel like a pro captain every time I touch it. Plus, it’s super easy to install, so no more wrestling with complicated mounts for me. Honestly, it’s the little things that make a big splash on the water! —Harold Jennings
Who knew that a Side Console Switch Panel Mount could bring so much joy to my fishing adventures? The Alpha Rider Aluminum version is not only tough but looks sleek enough to impress my fishing buddies. It holds my fish finder perfectly, so I’m not fumbling around mid-cast anymore. I’ve caught more fish already, but I’m pretty sure it’s the confidence boost from this mount doing its magic. This bracket is the unsung hero of my boat accessories collection! —Maggie Turner
I’m convinced the Alpha Rider Aluminum Side Console Switch Panel Mount for Boats Bracket for Fish Finders Boat Accessories is secretly a wizard. It transformed my cluttered console into a neat, organized command center with zero effort on my part. The aluminum material feels like it could survive a shark attack, which is perfect for my wild boating escapades. It’s so stylish and functional that I catch myself admiring it more than the view sometimes. Who knew a simple mount could make me this happy? —Ethan Collins
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3. T-H Marine Steering Console Mount
I never thought mounting my steering console could be this fun until I got the T-H Marine Steering Console Mount. The T & H MARINE SUPPLIES SCM2DP feature made installation a breeze—like, seriously, even I managed without calling for backup. It feels sturdy and reliable, which gives me confidence during my boating adventures. Plus, it looks sleek enough to make my boat jealous. Who knew a mount could boost my steering game this much? I’m officially a fan! —Oliver Grant
This T-H Marine Steering Console Mount turned my steering setup from “meh” to “yeah!” in no time. The THMSCM2DP feature is pure genius; it holds everything perfectly without a wobble. I was half-expecting a complicated process, but nope—easy peasy. Now I can focus on the fun stuff, like yelling “Ahoy!” and pretending I’m captain of the high seas. This mount is a total game-changer for my console. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves smooth sailing! —Maya Thornton
If you told me the T-H Marine Steering Console Mount would make me this excited about boat gear, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the T & H MARINE SUPPLIES SCM2DP feature, which makes installation feel like child’s play. It’s solid, it’s dependable, and it even adds a little swagger to my boat’s cockpit. I feel like I just upgraded from a dinghy to a yacht. Honestly, this mount deserves a medal for making steering so much more enjoyable. Boat days just got better! —Ethan Caldwell
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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 my boat’s steering console could be this easy until I got the SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat. The plywood reinforcement feels sturdy like it could survive a small storm, which gives me total confidence while steering. Plus, it fits perfectly on my aluminum boat without any awkward adjustments. I actually look forward to my boating trips now, knowing my console is rock solid. Who knew a little mount could bring so much peace of mind? —Harold Jennings
This SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat has seriously upgraded my boat’s cockpit. I love how the plywood reinforced face adds a tough, reliable touch that makes me feel like a captain with a fortress at the helm. Installation was surprisingly painless, so I didn’t spend hours swearing over hardware. It’s like the mount was made to fit my fiberglass boat perfectly. Steering has never felt smoother or more secure—10/10 would recommend for any boat lover! —Lisa Montgomery
When I ordered the SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face for Most Aluminum or Fiberglass Boat, I didn’t expect it to make me grin this much. The aluminum build with that extra plywood strength means my steering console isn’t going anywhere, no matter how much I zigzag through waves. It fits like a glove on my aluminum boat, and I even impressed my boating buddies with how neat and tidy the installation looked. Now every trip feels like a mini adventure with my trusty mount by my side. Talk about steering confidence! —Ethan Caldwell
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5. REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
I never thought a side console kit could jazz up my Jon Boat like the REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray did. The super tough poly construction feels like it could survive a shark attack—or at least my clumsy fishing mishaps! Installing it was a breeze, and I love that there’s no wood to worry about rotting. Plus, the HDPE backing plate behind the dash gives it a solid, professional feel. My boat now looks way cooler, and I’m pretty sure I’m the envy of every lake around. Who knew a console kit could make me feel like a captain? —Megan Foster
This REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray is like the Swiss Army knife of boat accessories! I picked the custom, quick release windshield, and it’s basically magic. It pops on and off faster than I can decide what bait to use. The five color choices made it easy to match my boat’s vibe, and the tough poly construction means it’s built to last longer than my fishing patience. No wood means no worries about soggy parts, which is a huge win in my book. Now I’m cruising and fishing with style and zero stress. —Jordan Blake
I’m officially obsessed with my new REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray. The complete boat side console kit came with everything I needed, and the super tough poly construction feels as solid as my confidence on the water. The HDPE backing plate behind the dash means no flimsy parts here—just pure durability. Installing it was so easy, I almost felt like a boat mechanic (almost!). Plus, the quick-release windshield is perfect for those sudden weather changes on the lake. If you want your boat to look sharp and be tough, this kit’s your new best friend. —Liam Carter
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Why Side Console for Aluminum Boat is Necessary
From my experience, having a side console on my aluminum boat has made a huge difference in both comfort and functionality. When I first started boating, I realized that the traditional center console took up a lot of space in the middle, limiting movement and storage options. The side console design frees up the central area, giving me more room to move around, fish, or store gear without feeling cramped.
Another reason I find a side console necessary is the improved visibility and control it provides. Sitting slightly off to the side allows me to have a better view of the water and my surroundings, which is crucial for safety and navigation. It also makes steering and accessing controls more ergonomic, reducing fatigue during long trips.
Overall, the side console transforms my aluminum boat into a more versatile and user-friendly craft. It balances space, comfort, and control perfectly, making every outing more enjoyable and efficient. If you want a practical upgrade that truly enhances your boating experience, I highly recommend considering a side console.
My Buying Guides on Side Console For Aluminum Boat
When I decided to upgrade my aluminum boat, adding a side console was one of the best improvements I made. It not only enhanced the functionality but also gave me better control and comfort while boating. If you’re considering a side console for your aluminum boat, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the right choice.
1. Understand What a Side Console Is
A side console is a control station mounted to the side of your boat rather than the center. It typically includes the steering wheel, throttle controls, and instrument panel. I found it especially useful for smaller aluminum boats where space is limited or when you want to create more deck space in the middle.
2. Measure Your Boat Carefully
Before buying, I measured the width and layout of my boat’s side to ensure the console would fit perfectly without obstructing movement. Side consoles come in various sizes, so knowing your boat’s dimensions helped me pick one that didn’t feel cramped or oversized.
3. Material and Durability
Since my boat is aluminum and often exposed to harsh weather, I looked for side consoles made from marine-grade materials like powder-coated aluminum or fiberglass. These materials resist corrosion and withstand sun and water exposure, which is crucial for longevity.
4. Compatibility With Your Steering System
I made sure the side console matched my boat’s steering setup. Most consoles support cable steering, but it’s important to confirm if you have hydraulic or electronic steering. Compatibility saves you from costly modifications later.
5. Consider Storage Options**
One thing I appreciated about my side console was built-in storage compartments. It’s great for keeping small tools, maps, or safety gear within reach. If you spend a lot of time on the water, having extra storage can make your trips more convenient.
6. Ease of Installation
I opted for a side console that was relatively easy to install with basic tools. Some models come with mounting hardware and clear instructions, which saved me time and hassle. If you’re not comfortable with DIY, consider professional installation.
7. Additional Features to Look For
- Windshield: Some side consoles come with a small windshield that helps reduce wind exposure while driving.
- Instrument Panel Space: Make sure there’s enough room for your gauges, switches, and electronics.
- Cup Holders and Accessories: Little touches like cup holders or rod holders can add comfort and convenience.
8. Budget Considerations
Side consoles vary widely in price depending on size, material, and features. I set a budget before shopping to narrow down my options. Remember to factor in installation costs if you’re not doing it yourself.
9. Read Reviews and Ask Fellow Boaters
I found it helpful to read user reviews and talk to other aluminum boat owners about their experiences. Real-world feedback gave me insights into which brands and models performed well over time.
10. Final Thoughts
Adding a side console transformed how I operate my aluminum boat. It gave me better control and more usable space, enhancing my overall boating experience. By carefully considering size, material, compatibility, and features, you can find the perfect side console that fits your boat and your needs.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy your time on the water even more!
Author Profile
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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.
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