You’ll find the Pelican transom kayak motor mount a compact, lightweight bolt-on that lets you install electric or gas motors up to 2.5 hp on select Pelican sit-inside models (CATCH PWR 100, MODE 110, GETAWAY 110). It’s fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene, weighs 1.5 lb, and uses five bolts for secure clamping. Installation is non-invasive and straightforward; check alignment, battery venting, and throttle routing. Keep going to see detailed fit, pros, cons, and warranty info.
Some Key Takeaways
- Lightweight, fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene transom mounts small electric or gas motors up to 2.5 hp for simple kayak propulsion.
- Compact 11 x 8.13 x 5.1-inch design weighs 1.5 lb, easing transport, handling, and installation on compatible kayaks.
- Bolt-on clamp with five bolts/nuts and ten washers installs without hull modification on specified Pelican models.
- Performs well for short-range or shallow-water fishing, pairing effectively with power pole gear for anchoring stability.
- Limitations include compatibility only with select Pelican models, no extra accessories included, and a 1‑year limited warranty.
Quick Performance Summary and Who This Mount Is Best For
While it’s compact and lightweight, the Pelican Transom Kayak Motor Mount delivers solid, no-frills performance for small-motor propulsion: you’ll get a secure, fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene transom that accepts electric or gas motors up to 2.5 hp and holds steady on the specified Pelican Catch and Getaway models. You’ll appreciate lightweight handling when transporting and mounting; the 1.5-pound assembly won’t bog you down. Installation uses supplied bolts, nuts, and washers and feels robust. If you run short-range motors, fish shallow waters, or prioritize simple, reliable propulsion, this mount fits—especially when you need a straightforward quick release mechanism for rapid detachment. It also pairs well with essential kayak power pole setups for stabilizing and anchoring in shallow fishing spots using power pole gear.
What the Pelican Transom Kayak Motor Mount Is and Which Pelican Kayaks It Fits
As a purpose-built transom mount, the Pelican Transom Kayak Motor Mount lets you attach small electric or gas motors (up to 2.5 hp) to select Pelican kayaks, converting paddle power into reliable propulsion without major hull modification. You’ll use it for straightforward transom installation: align the mount on the stern, secure with supplied bolts, nuts, and washers, and torque to spec. Kayak compatibility is limited to Pelican models designed with reinforced stern sections—specifically the CATCH PWR 100 (MF10), CATCH MODE 110 (MI11), and GETAWAY 110 (MH10). It’s a non-invasive, bolt-on retrofit for those hulls. These mounts are particularly useful for new kayakers transitioning from paddling to powered boating and for those exploring the best hard-shell inflatables as complementary gear.
Construction, Dimensions, and Hardware: Durability and Measurable Specs
Having covered which kayaks accept the mount, let’s look at what it’s made of and how it measures up. You’ll find a polypropylene shell reinforced with fiberglass offering stiffness and resistance to material fatigue during repetitive loading. Dimensions are compact: 11 x 8.13 x 5.1 inches and a 1.5-pound mass, so you can gauge added load precisely. Hardware includes five bolts, five nuts, ten washers — enough for secure clamping without excess. The black finish resists UV and scuffing. Overall, the design prioritizes predictable weight distribution and structural longevity for routine recreational use. This makes it a practical choice for paddlers who transport gear over varied surfaces using all-terrain kayak carts.
How to Install and Use the Mount With Electric or Gas Motors Up to 2.5 HP
Before you mount a motor, confirm the transom, motor shaft, and included fasteners are clean and undamaged so you can align components precisely; this prevents binding and uneven load on the mount. Position the mount on the transom, hand-thread bolts with washers, then torque evenly to specified snugness. Check shaft alignment to avoid vibration and premature wear. For electric setups, secure battery and follow battery management: venting, straps, and fused leads. Route throttle control and kill switch cables to reachable spots; test throttle range and safety kill switch before launch. Verify mount stability with a short low-speed run. Secure tie-down straps and check all fasteners again before heading out to ensure the motor and kayak remain properly secured.
Pros, Cons, Warranty Details, and Final Buying Recommendation
While the Transom Mount excels at delivering a sturdy, lightweight platform for up to 2.5 hp motors, you’ll notice its real strengths are practical: reinforced polypropylene with fiberglass keeps weight low (1.5 lb) while resisting corrosion, the included hardware set lets you bolt it on quickly, and its sizing matches Pelican’s Catch/Getaway hulls for predictable alignment and low vibration. Pros: durable, corrosion-resistant, low weight, simple bolt-on fit. Cons: limited to compatible hulls, no extra components, 2.5 hp cap. Warranty: 1-year limited; know warranty transferability, claim process, customer obligations, and authorized service centers before purchase. For kayakers and beginners looking to ease launches, consider pairing this mount with compatible kayak cart wheels to simplify moving your boat to and from the water.
Some Questions Answered
Can This Mount Be Used on Non-Pelican Kayaks With Modification?
Yes — you can adapt it to non-Pelican kayaks with modification. You’ll treat it like a universal transom by evaluating hull thickness, reinforcing with aluminum or marine plywood plates, and fabricating custom mounting brackets. You’ll drill matching holes, use stainless fasteners, and seal with marine epoxy. Test alignment and load with your motor (≤2.5 hp). Stay mindful of weight distribution and warranty voiding when you perform custom mounting.
Does the Mount Affect Kayak Storage or Transportability?
Yes — the mount adds modest storage impact and alters transport convenience. You’ll notice an extra 1.5 lb protrusion at the stern that can limit snug fit in tight racks or inside vehicles. When installed, you’ll need to account for added length and mounting hardware during stacking or trailer loading. Removing the mount is quick, so you can restore peak transport convenience and minimize storage impact when not using a motor.
Are Replacement Bolts or Hardware Available Separately?
Yes — you can get replacement hardware and bolt kits separately. You’ll need standard marine-grade fasteners; Pelican includes five bolts, five nuts and ten washers, and the mount uses polypropylene reinforced with fiberglass, so match corrosion-resistant stainless steel for longevity. Order OEM bolt kits from Pelican or buy equivalent marine-grade sets. Keep proof of purchase for warranty issues; carry spares in your kit for quick field replacements.
Is the Mount Compatible With Trolling Motors’ Steering Systems?
Yes — you can use trolling motors, but you’ll want to check steering interference and control routing. You’ll position the mount to avoid cables rubbing the hull or snagging paddle strokes. Route control wires and steering linkages clear of moving parts and secure them with clamps or zip ties. Test full-range turns and throttle before heading out. If you notice binding, adjust the mount fore/aft or reposition routing to eliminate interference.
Can I Add a Trim or Tilt Mechanism to This Fixed Transom Mount?
Yes — you can add a trim upgrade, but it takes modifications. You’ll have to perform a hinge installation by cutting or drilling the polypropylene/fiberglass boss, fitting a marine-grade hinge, and reinforcing with backing plates and stainless fasteners. Seal all joints with marine sealant and test loads. Don’t exceed motor weight limits or void warranty; keep bolts, washers, and load paths aligned for safe tilt function and reliable steering.
