I have a 1995 Ranger 690vs. When I acquired the boat the kicker was on the starboard side. I usually see the kicker on the port side of most rigs. Any opinions on which side is better/ pro’s and cons? Also, I will not be steering it with its tiller arm.
It’s really a personal preference. If you are not planning to sit and operate like a tiller you might want to think about balancing your rig if there’s a tendency to list (lean) to one side. I’ve always had a preference for tiller models and I’ve had them on both sides. There are pro’s and con’s to both. Starboard – No additional electronics necessary as you have a straight sight line to see them on your dash. For handlining you can play to your preferred arm unless you are ambidextrous. Port – when I’d fish alone it would balance the rig especially for smaller, lighter boats. Not much of an impact on 20 foot rigs.
I’m sure this all changes when you troll from the wheel (which I’ve never had a desire to do but have fished out of rigs that are set up that way). My point is there are a lot of variables you can throw into the decision but in the end it’s really what YOU prefer versus a scientific answer favoring one side over the other.
FWIW
One last thought – I had a couple Rangers with the static plate on both sides. Really gave me a chance to see what side I preferred. Static plates can be purchased from R&R in Texas for $150 plus shipping. IMHO – that’s pretty cheap to help an avid angler figure out a very important piece of the fish catching puzzle….
I’m sure many more anglers will provide more insight to help with your decision.
Just remember – almost anything done to a boat can be undone…
Thanks for the input. I just wondered if there was a technical reason for having it on the port side since I see more configured this way. It seems there isn’t so I’ll probably leave it where it is. Thx.
I think as mentioned it’s your personal choice. For myself and maybe most, it’s the PORT side.
I think most all small ‘kicker motors’ have the tiller handle as a left side mount. If your kicker was to the starboard side of your big engine, there might not be enough room to swing the kickers handle, whereas on the port side, it would swing out away from the boat and not hit anything.
If you ever want or have an electric on the transom, I’d put the electric starboard, and the kicker port side. 
Just my .10$ worth 
I drive a wheel boat and the kicker on the port side helps me to get the boat on the trailer straight a little easier. A kicker on the starboard side coupled with me at the wheel on the starboard side makes the boat list to the right. I have a Shorelander trailer that I HATE – it is very difficult to get the boat loaded straight. Having the kicker help offset my fat butt helps a little….
Are you right or left handed? Do you like to hold the rod while trolling or will it be in a holder most of the time? Just things to consider.
FDR
Going to run it with a panther T5 and a trollmaster pro 3. Rods will be in holders. Thx.
Quote:
Thanks for the input. I just wondered if there was a technical reason for having it on the port side since I see more configured this way. It seems there isn’t so I’ll probably leave it where it is. Thx.
. Most boats have the kicker rigged on the port side just because there is less stuff to get in the way over there. The other reason is to offset the weight of a solo driver.
Another reason to go on the port side is the starboard side is usually where your transducer is located, and the propwash typically goes towards the port side. Keeping all the propwash to the port side keeps the starboard side clear for your sonar.
Wade
You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
