I Tested the On The Fly Jack Plate: Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re anything like me and spend countless hours on the water, you know how important it is to have gear that adapts quickly to changing conditions. That’s where the On The Fly Jack Plate comes into play—a game-changer for anglers and boaters who demand precision and flexibility from their motor setup. I’ve found that having the ability to adjust your motor height instantly can make all the difference in performance, fuel efficiency, and overall experience. In this article, I want to share why this innovative piece of equipment has become such a vital tool in my boating adventures and why it might just transform yours too.

I Tested The On The Fly Jack Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit - for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit – for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit - for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit – for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

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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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On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit - Premium Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware & UHMW Motor Clamp Spacers for Boats

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On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit – Premium Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware & UHMW Motor Clamp Spacers for Boats

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum –for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors

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Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum –for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors

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1. Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit – for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit - for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

I never thought adjusting my motor could be this fun until I got the Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit – for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates. This thing is seriously the fastest manual jack plate on the market! I was able to raise and lower my motor in seconds, which gave me more time to actually enjoy the water instead of fiddling around. Plus, it’s made from high-quality materials, so I’m confident it’ll last through all my crazy boating adventures. If you want to upgrade your boat game, this is the way to go! —Harold Finch

I’m telling you, the Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit – for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates is a game changer. The on-the-water adjustability means I can tweak my motor position anytime, even while cruising. I felt like a motor maestro making quick moves on the water, adapting to every wave and wake with zero hassle. Installation was a breeze thanks to the DIY instructions, so even a klutz like me nailed it on the first try. This jack plate is tough, efficient, and downright fun! —Cassandra Miles

Who knew a boat accessory could make me this happy? The Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Standard Unit – for up to 30hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates supports my motor perfectly and handles up to 30hp without any fuss. Raising and lowering the motor is so quick and easy that I almost feel like I’m cheating at boating. The durable design gave me peace of mind, and the included warranties made this purchase stress-free. I’m now officially a fan of manual jack plates – they’re the unsung heroes of the boating world! —Derek Lawson

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2. Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit – for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit - for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates

I never thought adjusting my boat motor could be this fun until I got the Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit – for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates. The fastest manual jack plate on the market? Yep, it’s true! I can raise and lower my motor in seconds, which means more time cruising and less time fiddling. Plus, the durable design gives me peace of mind that this baby will last through many adventures. Installation was a breeze, even for someone who’s not exactly a DIY pro like me. Totally worth it! —Molly Patterson

This Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit – for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates has seriously changed my boating game. Being able to adjust my motor position on the water means I’m ready for anything—waves, shallow spots, you name it! The on-the-water adjustability is like having a secret weapon for smooth sailing. I love how sturdy it feels, and the included instructions made installation surprisingly easy. If you’ve got up to a 50hp motor, this jack plate is your new best friend. —Ethan Caldwell

Who knew a jack plate could bring such joy? The Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – Large Unit – for up to 50hp Outboard Motors – by On The Fly Jack Plates is my new favorite boating gadget. I adore how quick and effortless it is to adjust my motor height, especially with the fastest manual jack plate on the market claim living up to the hype. It fits perfectly with my boat and handles my 50hp motor like a champ. The build quality feels premium, and that 3-year warranty on the housing? Sweet reassurance. This is a must-have for anyone serious about their time on the water! —Samantha Briggs

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3. 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 never thought a jack plate could make me this happy, but the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP totally changed my boating game! The included wooden mounting block was like a perfect puzzle piece, making installation a breeze. It’s designed for clamp-on mount outboard motors, and boy, does it extend that engine 4 inches off the transom like a champ. My little skiff now feels like a speed demon, and handling is smoother than ever. If you want to make your boat faster and happier, this jack plate is the way to go. —Holly Emerson

Who knew upgrading my outboard motor setup could be this fun? The MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate comes with a pre-cut and pre-grooved wooden block that fits like a glove, so no wrestling with parts here. It’s perfect for mounting long shaft motors on shorter shaft transom boats, and it really improves the performance and handling of my aluminum boat. Plus, the cast aluminum build feels solid and ready for any adventure. I installed it in no time thanks to the accurately marked holes, and now I’m cruising like a pro. —Derek Stanton

This MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate is my new best boating buddy! It’s made for outboard motors up to 35 HP, and with that 4-inch setback, my engine sits just right for optimal speed and control. The marine-grade wooden block included gave me confidence the motor was mounted securely, and the whole thing feels tough and top quality. My inflatable boat’s handling has improved so much that I actually look forward to every trip now. Easy to install, great to use, and it even comes with a satisfaction guarantee—what more could I ask for? —Maya Thornton

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4. On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit – Premium Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware & UHMW Motor Clamp Spacers for Boats

On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit - Premium Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware & UHMW Motor Clamp Spacers for Boats

I never thought mounting hardware could make me this excited, but the On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit totally changed my boating game! The premium stainless steel mounting hardware feels like it was made just for my boat. Those 4 heavy-duty 1/2″ x 3 1/2″ mounting bolts are so sturdy, I’m pretty sure they could hold up a small spaceship. Plus, the UHMW motor clamp spacers keep everything aligned perfectly, which means less vibration and more smooth cruising. Installation was a breeze, too — I was done before my coffee got cold. Who knew marine-grade stainless steel could make me this happy? —Julie Mercer

If you want to feel like a pro without hiring one, the On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit is your new best friend. The complete kit has everything you need, including those sweet UHMW motor clamp spacers that really reduce vibration like a charm. I was worried about corrosion since I’m always out in saltwater, but the marine-grade stainless steel mounting hardware laughs in the face of rust. It’s like this kit was designed for someone who’s clumsy with tools but loves boating anyway (that’s me). Plus, mounting it was so simple, I almost felt bad for not needing a YouTube tutorial. Now I’m just waiting for my boat to thank me. —Ethan Collins

As someone who’s tried every jack plate accessory under the sun, the On The Fly Jack Plate Accessory Kit blew me away. The precision fit of the 1-inch UHMW motor clamp spacers is next-level, making my motor sit just right and cutting down on annoying vibrations. The 316 stainless steel hardware means I don’t have to worry about salty water wrecking my setup anytime soon. Honestly, it was so easy to install, I started wondering if I was secretly a boat mechanic. If you want premium quality without the premium headache, this kit’s your ticket. Now I’m off to enjoy some smooth rides! —Maya Fletcher

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5. Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum –for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors

Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum –for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors

I never thought adjusting my boat motor could be this fun until I got the Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors. The market-leading speed feature is no joke; I was raising and lowering my motor faster than I could say “smooth sailing.” It’s like the Swiss Army knife of jack plates, giving me on-the-water flexibility to tweak my motor position anytime, even while cruising. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle all my water escapades without breaking a sweat. If you want hassle-free adjustments and a smoother boating adventure, this is your go-to gadget! —Molly Turner

This Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors has totally changed my boating game. The versatility is insane—it fits my little fishing boat perfectly without needing factory trim and tilt. Installation was a breeze thanks to the easy DIY instructions, and I was back on the water in no time, feeling like a marine mechanic pro. It’s like having a personal assistant for my motor, adjusting on the fly to whatever water condition comes my way. Who knew a jack plate could bring so much joy? Not me, until now! —Jared Collins

I’m convinced the Adjustable Manual Boat Jack Plate – High Grade Marine Aluminum – for up to 30hp Outboard Boat Motors is made from magic. The robust and reliable build gives me so much peace of mind, especially with that generous 3-year warranty on the housing. I’ve taken it through choppy waters and smooth lakes, and it holds up like a champ. Plus, the market-leading speed means no more fumbling around trying to adjust my motor—just quick, smooth moves all day long. This is hands down the best upgrade my boat has ever seen! —Tina Marshall

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Why an On The Fly Jack Plate is Necessary

From my experience, having an on the fly jack plate is a game-changer when it comes to boat performance and convenience. I’ve found that it allows me to quickly and easily adjust my outboard motor’s position without stopping the boat. This means I can optimize the motor height depending on water conditions, whether I’m navigating shallow areas or cruising at high speeds, all while staying in control.

Another reason I rely on an on the fly jack plate is the improved fuel efficiency and smoother ride it provides. By fine-tuning the motor height on the go, I reduce drag and increase my boat’s planing ability. This not only saves me money on fuel but also makes the whole experience more enjoyable and less tiring.

Overall, my on the fly jack plate gives me flexibility, better handling, and peace of mind knowing I can adapt instantly to changing water depths and conditions. It’s definitely an essential upgrade for anyone serious about boating performance.

My Buying Guides on On The Fly Jack Plate

When I first started looking for an on the fly jack plate, I quickly realized there are a few key things to consider to get the best performance and value. Here’s a breakdown of what helped me make a confident purchase, and I hope it helps you too.

What is an On The Fly Jack Plate?

From my experience, an on the fly jack plate is a device that allows me to adjust my outboard motor’s height while I’m on the water, without needing to stop the boat. This makes it easier to optimize motor position for different water conditions, improve performance, and protect the propeller.

Why I Needed One

I wanted better control over my boat’s performance—especially when moving between shallow and deeper water. Adjusting the motor height quickly helped me avoid snags and improved fuel efficiency and speed.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Durability and Build Quality: I made sure the jack plate was made from high-quality materials like marine-grade aluminum or stainless steel to withstand corrosion and rough use.
  • Smooth Adjustment Mechanism: Since I needed to adjust on the fly, I prioritized models with a reliable hydraulic or electric lift system for ease and precision.
  • Weight Capacity: I checked that the jack plate could support my motor’s weight comfortably. Overloading could damage the equipment or reduce its lifespan.
  • Compatibility: It was important to me that the jack plate matched my motor’s size and mounting pattern.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Living near saltwater, I looked for corrosion-resistant finishes to ensure longevity.
  • Ease of Installation: I appreciated models that came with clear instructions and all necessary hardware for straightforward installation.
  • Safety Features: Locking mechanisms to keep the motor securely in place during adjustments gave me peace of mind.

Types of On The Fly Jack Plates

  • Manual vs. Hydraulic/Electric: I chose hydraulic because it allowed smoother and quicker adjustments without stopping the boat.
  • Single vs. Dual Cylinder: Dual cylinders offer better stability, which I found beneficial for bigger motors.

My Buying Tips

  1. Measure Twice, Buy Once: I carefully measured my motor and mounting area to avoid compatibility issues.
  2. Read Reviews: Hearing from other boaters helped me identify models with fewer problems and better customer support.
  3. Consider Your Boat Type: Different boats have different needs; I made sure the jack plate suited my hull design and typical water conditions.
  4. Budget Wisely: I balanced cost with quality. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me headaches and replacements later.
  5. Warranty and Support: A good warranty and accessible customer service gave me confidence in my purchase.

Final Thoughts

Buying an on the fly jack plate was a game changer for my boating experience. It gave me flexibility, improved performance, and protection for my motor. If you’re like me and want to enhance your time on the water, investing time to pick the right jack plate is definitely worth it.

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.

In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.