Tech Talk - What Is A Jackplate?

Jordan LoNigro

Video Producer / Content Creator

A jack plate is no new piece of technology, it's been around for a long time but it's only more recently hit the market as a more standard piece of equipment. Today it's seen more and more on bay boats and skiffs to help increase the performance of outboard engines and give you the full advantage of your boats shallow water draft. Sportsman has adopted the jack plate and made it standard on several of our bay boats because of how beneficial it can be in several areas of the boating experience.

Understanding the Jack Plate

What exactly is a Jack Plate? It's not your run-of-the-mill boat accessory. A Jack Plate is a hydraulic system that elevates your boat's motor directly vertical, allowing it to move up and down. It's essential to note that this isn't the same as trim, which deals with the angle of your motor, not its vertical movement.

So, why should you consider installing a Jack Plate on the back of your boat? Well, this nifty addition can significantly enhance your fishing performance and improve the overall economy of your boat.

Mastering Shallow Waters

One of the standout advantages of a Jack Plate is its ability to help you navigate shallow waters with ease. Imagine you're in a serene creek, looking to fish and explore. Here's where the Jack Plate shines. By positioning the skeg (the fin-like structure on the bottom of your motor) all the way up and close to the V of the hull, you can take full advantage of the boat's shallow draft. This means you can venture into tight creeks and snug spots without a hitch, enhancing your fishing experience.

Enhanced Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Now, let's talk about the last two perks of having a Jack Plate on your boat: improved performance and fuel economy. When you raise your motor out of the water using the Jack Plate, you effectively reduce drag and resistance on your boat. This reduction typically translates into a one to two-mile-per-hour increase in speed, making your boat more efficient in terms of fuel consumption.

Space-Saving: Splash Well Removal

You might be wondering why the Jack Plate is standard on the Masters 247 and other models. Well, part of the answer lies in the ingenious design of the boat. By incorporating the Jack Plate, we've been able to eliminate the splash well, giving you more space on the rear casting deck. It's all about maximizing your comfort and enjoyment on the water.

Operating Your Jack Plate

Using a Jack Plate is a breeze. You control it by going up and down on your turn-style switch. When you're cruising on the water, aim for about two to two and a half for optimal cruise and performance. However, when you're venturing into tight, shallow creeks for some serious fishing, that's when you want to raise your Jack Plate all the way up. On the other hand, when you're facing rough seas and challenging conditions, lower the Jack Plate all the way down to eliminate cavitation and ensure a safe ride.

Hopefully this gives you a better understanding of the jack plate and what advantages it offers. If you're looking to learn more about using your boat we recommend checking out our Tech Talk series where you'll find informative videos covering all sorts of boating topics.