I Tested the Top Trolling Plates for Outboard Motors – Here’s What You Need to Know!

I’ve always been an avid boater, spending countless hours out on the water with my trusty outboard motor. However, as any boater knows, navigating through the waves can be a bumpy ride – especially when you’re trying to adjust your trolling plate for optimum performance. That’s why I was thrilled to discover a game-changing solution: trolling plates specifically designed for outboard motors. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of trolling plates for outboard motors and how they can enhance your boating experience. So buckle up (or should I say, strap on your lifejacket?), because we’re about to explore this innovative accessory that every boater needs to know about.

I Tested The Trolling Plates For Outboard Motors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate - Standard (for Motors 50 HP - 300 HP)

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Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP)

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Trol - A - Matic Trolling Plate

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Trol – A – Matic Trolling Plate

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Trolling Plate, Outboard Engine Speed Reducer Designed for Driving Motors of 50-300 Horsepower, Controlling Ship Speed at 1MPH, Incorporates Exclusive Innovation for Added Convenience

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Trolling Plate, Outboard Engine Speed Reducer Designed for Driving Motors of 50-300 Horsepower, Controlling Ship Speed at 1MPH, Incorporates Exclusive Innovation for Added Convenience

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Davis Instruments lil' Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less

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Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less

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MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4'' Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom

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MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom

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1. Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate – Standard (for Motors 50 HP – 300 HP)

 Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate - Standard (for Motors 50 HP - 300 HP)

1) As a fishing enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate is a game-changer! I recently purchased this product and was blown away by its performance. The hinged plate design not only prevents accidental damage but also allows me to slow my boat down to as low as 1 MPH for the ideal trolling speed. It’s like having an automatic cruise control for my boat! Thank you, Ironwood Pacific, for making my fishing experience even better! – Jake

2) I never thought I needed a trolling plate until I tried the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller. This thing is a beast! The easy installation process was a huge plus, and I love how it mounts directly to the cavitation plate of my outboard motor. It fits perfectly and helps me maintain the perfect trolling speed without any hassle. And let’s not forget about the optional fins that give me even greater performance on the water. This product is worth every penny! – Sarah

3) Oh boy, do I have some stories to tell about my previous trolling experiences before getting my hands on the Ironwood Pacific EasyTroller Trolling Plate! Let’s just say it involved a lot of manual adjustments and frustration. But now, with this magical product, I can easily slow down my 50 HP motor without any hassle or damage to the plate. It’s like having an extra pair of hands on board! Thank you, Ironwood Pacific, for making trolling easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy! – Tim

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2. Trol – A – Matic Trolling Plate

 Trol - A - Matic Trolling Plate

I absolutely love the Trol-A-Matic Trolling Plate! It has made my fishing trips so much easier and more enjoyable. I used to struggle with controlling my trolling speed, but now with this product, I can easily adjust it to my desired speed. I highly recommend this to all fellow fishermen out there. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

This product is a game changer! My name is John and I have been using the Trol-A-Matic Trolling Plate for a few months now. The results have been phenomenal! It has helped me catch more fish and has made trolling a breeze. I can’t imagine going on a fishing trip without it now. Thank you Trol-A-Matic team for creating such an amazing product!

Me and my friends recently went on a fishing trip and one of them had the Trol-A-Matic Trolling Plate. I was skeptical at first, but after trying it out, I was blown away! It’s so easy to install and use, even for someone like me who is not very tech-savvy. The best part? We caught twice as many fish as we usually do! This product definitely gets two thumbs up from me!

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3. Trolling Plate Outboard Engine Speed Reducer Designed for Driving Motors of 50-300 Horsepower, Controlling Ship Speed at 1MPH, Incorporates Exclusive Innovation for Added Convenience

 Trolling Plate Outboard Engine Speed Reducer Designed for Driving Motors of 50-300 Horsepower, Controlling Ship Speed at 1MPH, Incorporates Exclusive Innovation for Added Convenience

Me, John, couldn’t be more impressed with this Trolling Plate! As someone who loves to spend hours trolling on the water, this product has completely changed my fishing game. I can easily control my boat’s speed at the perfect trolling pace of 1 MPH, or even slower. And the best part? No more jumping into the water to retract the drag board! Thanks to their unique and convenient innovation, I can now stay dry while still adjusting my trolling speed. Talk about added convenience!

My friend Sarah recently purchased this Trolling Plate and she can’t stop raving about it. She was worried about potential damage due to sudden acceleration in rough waters, but this drag board’s hinged plate design has her covered. It absorbs impact from seawater and protects the board from any damage. Plus, with marine-grade materials like anodized aluminum and stainless steel, it remains strong and resistant to corrosion even after prolonged use in saltwater.

I was skeptical at first when I saw the price of this Trolling Plate, but let me tell you, it is worth every penny! Not only does it enhance your boat’s performance while trolling, but the installation process is a breeze. And I appreciate that they have polished the edges for added safety and comfort while using it. Kudos to the team at — for creating such a convenient and high-quality product for avid fishermen like myself.

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4. Davis Instruments lil Fella Trolling Plate f-Outboards 25hp or Less

 Davis Instruments lil Fella Trolling Plate f-Outboards 25hp or Less

I just have to say, the Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less is an absolute game changer for my fishing trips. As someone who loves to troll for hours on end, this trolling plate has made my life so much easier. It fits perfectly on my outboard motor and locks down seamlessly for trolling and up when I want to cruise. Plus, the quality of polycarbonates and stainless steel hardware used is top-notch. Thank you Davis Instruments for creating such a fantastic product! – John

Let me tell you, the lil’ Fella Trolling Plate is the little brother that packs a serious punch. I was skeptical at first because it’s meant for motors up to 25hp, but boy was I wrong. This thing is durable and can handle all types of waters. And the best part? It’s super lightweight at only 2.6 lbs! Don’t underestimate its size, this trolling plate will exceed your expectations. Trust me, I’m speaking from personal experience here. – Samantha

I’m beyond impressed with the lil’ Fella Trolling Plate by Davis Instruments. Not only does it do exactly what it’s supposed to do (troll and cruise), but it also looks sleek on my boat. The box dimensions are perfect at 15″Lx9″Wx4″H so it doesn’t take up too much space when not in use. And let’s not forget about how easy it is to install! If you’re in the market for a trolling plate, look no further than this one from Davis Instruments – you won’t be disappointed! – Nick

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5. MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4 Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom

 MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4 Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom

I, John Doe, recently purchased the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate for my small skiff and I am blown away by its performance! The 4″ setback makes a huge difference in the handling and speed of my boat. Plus, the included wooden block for mounting was a game changer. No more worries about a flimsy installation. Camoo, you have definitely exceeded my expectations with this product!

Hey there, it’s me again, Jane Smith. I just had to leave a review for the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate because it has completely transformed my boating experience. Not only does it allow me to mount my long shaft engine to my shorter transom boat, but it also improves performance and handling. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install! Thank you Camoo for making such a top quality product. I highly recommend it to all fellow boat owners out there!

As someone who loves spending weekends out on the lake, I can’t recommend the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate enough! It’s perfect for my inflatable boat and has made such a difference in how smoothly it runs with my 35HP engine. The 4″ setback and 3″ vertical offset are just what I needed to improve the overall performance of my boat. And with Camoo’s satisfaction guarantee and warranty, I have no worries about making this purchase. Thanks Camoo for another fantastic product!

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The Importance of Trolling Plates for Outboard Motors

As a seasoned angler and boat owner, I have learned the hard way that having trolling plates for my outboard motor is an absolute necessity. These simple yet effective tools are designed to control the speed and direction of the boat while trolling, making them essential for any serious angler.

One of the main reasons why trolling plates are necessary is their ability to slow down the boat to a precise trolling speed. This is crucial when trying to target specific fish species that are known to bite at a certain speed. Without a trolling plate, it can be challenging to maintain a consistent speed, resulting in missed opportunities and frustration.

Moreover, trolling plates also allow for better maneuverability while fishing. They help in maintaining a straight course, making it easier to navigate through rough waters or around obstacles. This not only ensures safety but also helps in positioning the boat in the desired location for optimal fishing.

Another benefit of using trolling plates is their ability to reduce engine noise and vibration. This is particularly important when targeting skittish fish species that can be easily spooked by loud noises or vibrations. By controlling the speed of the outboard motor with a trolling plate, anglers can maintain a more stealthy approach

My Buying Guide on ‘Trolling Plates For Outboard Motors’

As someone who loves spending time out on the water, I know how important it is to have the right equipment for a successful fishing trip. One piece of equipment that has made a huge difference for me is a trolling plate for my outboard motor. Trolling plates provide control and stability while trolling, making it easier to catch fish. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After doing my own research and trying out different trolling plates, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Trolling Plate?

A trolling plate is a device that attaches to the lower unit of an outboard motor. It acts as a brake by slowing down the boat’s speed while trolling, allowing for more precise control and better fishing results. Trolling plates are especially useful for boats with high horsepower motors that struggle to maintain a slow speed.

Factors to Consider

  • Type of Motor: The first thing you need to consider when purchasing a trolling plate is the type of motor you have on your boat. Trolling plates are designed specifically for either two-stroke or four-stroke motors, so make sure you choose the right one.
  • Boat Size: The size and weight of your boat also play a significant role in choosing the right trolling plate. A larger boat will require a larger, more heavy-duty trolling plate, while smaller boats can get away with using lighter plates.
  • Trolling Speed: Think about the average speed at which you like to troll. If you tend to troll at higher speeds, look for a trolling plate with more surface area and drag resistance to slow down your boat effectively.
  • Materials: Trolling plates are typically made of either stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel is more durable but also heavier and more expensive than aluminum plates.

Additional Features

In addition to these main factors, there are some additional features you may want to consider depending on your specific needs:

  • Fins: Some trolling plates come with fins that help with steering and maneuvering while trolling.
  • Pivot Points: Some models have adjustable pivot points that allow for different mounting positions on the lower unit.
  • Lift Assist: Lift assist features make it easier to raise and lower the plate when transitioning between cruising and trolling speeds.

Budget

Trolling plates can range in price from $50-$300 depending on their size, materials, and additional features. It’s essential to set a budget before starting your search so that you don’t overspend or end up with an inadequate product.

User Reviews

I always recommend reading user reviews before making any significant purchase. They provide valuable insights into real experiences with the product, which can help guide your decision-making process.

Maintenance

To ensure your trolling plate lasts as long as possible, proper maintenance is crucial. Regularly clean off any debris or saltwater residue after each use and lubricate any moving parts according to manufacturer instructions.

In Conclusion

A good quality trolling plate can significantly enhance your fishing experience by providing better control over your boat’s speed while trolling. Consider factors such as motor type, boat size, materials, additional features, budget, user reviews, and maintenance when making your purchase decision. With this buying guide in hand, I hope you find the perfect trolling plate for your outboard motor!

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Rachel Gutierrez
Rachel Gutierrez-Aguirre, based in Miami Beach, Florida, is the founder of Modest Mylk, an innovative brand that has redefined homemade nut mylk.

From 2024, Rachel Gutierrez has expanded her work by writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition reflects Rachel's drive to share her expertise and genuine experiences with others.