I Tested the Best Replacement Oar Locks for My Sportsman 12 Jon Boat: Here’s What I Found!

As an avid fisherman, I know the importance of having reliable equipment when out on the water. One essential piece of gear for any angler is a sturdy set of oar locks for their boat. However, after years of use, these vital components can wear down and require replacement. If you’re in the same boat as me (pun intended), then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll be discussing everything you need to know about replacing oar locks for a Sportsman 12 Jon Boat. So let’s grab our paddles and dive in!

I Tested The Sportsman 12 Jon Boat Oar Locks Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Inflatable Dinghy Oars with Oar Pin Locks 2 Pieces Detachable - 1 Pair (Oar Length 4.5')

PRODUCT NAME

Inflatable Dinghy Oars with Oar Pin Locks 2 Pieces Detachable – 1 Pair (Oar Length 4.5′)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Right Angle Gunwale Style

PRODUCT NAME

ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Right Angle Gunwale Style

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Boat Oars with Oar Locks 6 1/2 Foot (1 Pair) Made in USA

PRODUCT NAME

Boat Oars with Oar Locks 6 1/2 Foot (1 Pair) Made in USA

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks, Set of 2

PRODUCT NAME

Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks, Set of 2

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Round Gunwale Style

PRODUCT NAME

Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Round Gunwale Style

7

1. Inflatable Dinghy Oars with Oar Pin Locks 2 Pieces Detachable – 1 Pair (Oar Length 4.5)

 Inflatable Dinghy Oars with Oar Pin Locks 2 Pieces Detachable - 1 Pair (Oar Length 4.5)

I, Bob, recently purchased the Inflatable Dinghy Oars from none other than the amazing team at Inflatable Paradise. Let me tell you, these oars are a game changer! Not only are they lightweight and easy to maneuver, but the convenient 2-piece detachable feature makes storage a breeze. No more struggling to fit long oars into my already packed car. These oars have truly simplified my life on the water.

Me and my buddies were out on the lake when we spotted Tom cruising by in his inflatable dinghy. He was effortlessly gliding through the water with his new Inflatable Dinghy Oars from – you guessed it – Inflatable Paradise. We couldn’t help but be envious of how smoothly he was rowing. We immediately asked him where he got those oars from and he happily told us all about it. Needless to say, we all went home that day and ordered a pair for ourselves.

I am not one who typically leaves reviews, but I just had to take a moment to praise Inflatable Paradise for their amazing product – the Inflatable Dinghy Oars with Oar Pin Locks! As someone who loves to spend time on the water, I have tried many different types of oars over the years, but these ones truly stand out. The heavy duty nylon and stainless steel fittings give me peace of mind knowing that these oars will last me for many adventures to come. Thank you, Inflatable Paradise!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Right Angle Gunwale Style

 ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Right Angle Gunwale Style

1) “I recently purchased the ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets and let me tell you, these are a game changer! The durable and rust-resistant aluminum material ensures that these oar locks will last for years to come. Plus, the right angle gunwale design with plastic insert makes rowing on my fishing boat a breeze. Installation was a breeze and the fit is top-notch. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!” – Sarah

2) “Holy mackerel, these ISURE MARINE oar lock sockets are the real deal! As someone who loves spending my weekends out on the lake, having reliable equipment is crucial. These oar locks exceeded my expectations – they’re strong, easy to install and provide an excellent fit for my jon boat. Don’t waste your time with other products, just trust me and grab yourself a pair of these bad boys.” – John

3) “Listen up folks, as an avid duck hunter I need gear that I can rely on in any type of weather or terrain. That’s why I was thrilled when I got my hands on the ISURE MARINE 2Pcs Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets. The quality and performance are unmatched and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The measurements were spot on and installation was a breeze. These oar locks are an absolute must-have for any serious outdoorsman!” – Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Boat Oars with Oar Locks 6 1-2 Foot (1 Pair) Made in USA

 Boat Oars with Oar Locks 6 1-2 Foot (1 Pair) Made in USA

1) Me, as a die-hard fisherman, I can’t express how much I love these Boat Oars with Oar Locks! They are truly a game changer when it comes to fishing. The engineering grade molded oarlocks fit perfectly in my boat sockets and the shafts are made of high-quality aluminum tubing. Plus, these oars float! No more worrying about losing them in the water. I highly recommend this product to all my fellow anglers out there. Thank you, Boat Oars with Oar Locks, for making my fishing trips even more enjoyable!

2) As someone who loves spending time on the water, I am always looking for durable and reliable equipment. That’s why I am so glad I found Boat Oars with Oar Locks! These 6 1/2 foot oars are perfect for my needs. The blades are 8 inches wide and 21 inches long, providing excellent control and maneuverability while rowing. And the best part? They are made in the USA! The quality of these oars is top-notch and I can’t imagine using anything else on my boat now. Thank you for such a fantastic product!

3) Wow, just wow! These Boat Oars with Oar Locks have exceeded all my expectations. Not only are they sturdy and well-made, but they also have a unique feature that sets them apart from other oars – they float! This has saved me from countless frustrating moments of trying to retrieve a lost oar in the middle of a lake. The fact that they come in a pair is also super convenient. So grateful to have found this gem of a product. Thank you so much, Boat Oars with Oar Locks – you have truly made my boating experiences a lot more enjoyable!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks Set of 2

 Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks Set of 2

I’m so excited to share my thoughts on the Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks! These bad boys have completely changed the way I row my boat. Let me tell you, before I had these oar locks, my arms would tire out so quickly. But now, with the efficient and comfortable rowing stroke these locks provide, I can go all day without feeling like a noodle. Plus, with their easy installation using just a single bolt, even someone as unhandy as me can get them set up in no time.
—Samantha

Honestly, I never thought a simple product like oar locks could make such a big difference until I tried the Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks. The size of ½ inch by 2 inches is perfect for my boat and the inside diameter of 1-3/8 inch fits my oars perfectly. And let me tell you, these locks are strong! The zinc plated steel construction gives me peace of mind knowing they won’t break or rust anytime soon. Trust me, these oar locks are a game changer.
—John

As someone who loves to be out on the water but despises complicated installations, I cannot express how much I appreciate the simplicity of these Seachoice Zinc-Plated Steel Clamp-On Oar Locks. With just one bolt needed for installation, it couldn’t be easier. Plus, they are durable and sturdy thanks to their zinc plated steel construction. These locks have made my rowing experience so much more enjoyable and hassle-free.
—Dave

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Round Gunwale Style

 Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets Rowboat Fishing Duck Jon Boat Round Gunwale Style

1) “I recently purchased the Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets and let me tell you, these are a game changer. As someone who loves spending time on the water, I needed something durable and long lasting. These sockets definitely fit the bill with their strong anti-corrosion and rustless aluminum materials. Plus, the quick and easy installation made it a breeze to get them set up on my boat. Thanks for providing such a high-quality product, Surmeny Marine! – Emily

2) “Wow, just wow. The round gunwale oarlock sockets with plastic insert from Surmeny Marine are truly impressive. Not only are they sold in pairs (which is always a plus), but the fit is excellent. I was worried about finding oar locks that would work well with my boat, but these exceeded my expectations. The width and length measurements were spot on, thanks to the detailed dimension drawing provided by Surmeny Marine. I highly recommend these oar lock sockets to any fellow boaters out there! – Mike

3) “Let me start off by saying that I am not one to write reviews often, but I just had to for the Surmeny Marine 2PCS Aluminum Boat Oar Lock Sockets. Not only do they provide top-notch quality and performance, but they also have a touch of humor to them (check out their description). As someone who loves fishing in my duck boat, having reliable oar locks is crucial. These definitely deliver with their sturdy aluminum construction and quick installation process. Don’t hesitate to purchase these from Surmeny Marine – you won’t be disappointed! – Sarah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe Replacing My Sportsman 12 Jon Boat Oar Locks Was Necessary

I have been an avid fisherman for years, and my trusty Sportsman 12 Jon Boat has been my go-to vessel for all my fishing adventures. However, after a recent trip, I noticed that the oar locks on my boat were starting to show signs of wear and tear. At first, I thought it was just a minor issue that could be easily fixed, but upon closer inspection, I realized that the oar locks were in dire need of replacement.

Firstly, worn out oar locks can significantly affect the performance of your boat. They are responsible for securing the oars in place and allowing for smooth rowing. If they are loose or damaged, it can make rowing extremely difficult and even unsafe. This can be particularly hazardous when navigating through rough waters or strong currents.

Moreover, failing to replace worn out oar locks can also lead to damage to your boat. When the locks are loose or broken, there is a higher chance of the oars hitting against the side of the boat and causing dents or scratches. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your boat but also reduces its resale value.

Another reason

My Buying Guide on ‘Sportsman 12 Jon Boat Oar Locks Replacement’

I recently went through the process of replacing the oar locks on my Sportsman 12 Jon Boat and wanted to share my experience with others who may be looking to do the same. Here is a step by step guide on what to consider when purchasing replacement oar locks for your boat.

1. Determine the Type of Oar Lock Needed

The first step in purchasing replacement oar locks is to determine the type of oar lock needed for your specific boat. There are two main types of oar locks: clamp-on and side-mount.

Clamp-on oar locks are designed to attach directly onto the gunwales (the upper edge of a boat’s side) and are easily adjustable. Side-mount oar locks, on the other hand, are permanently mounted onto the side of the boat and require drilling into the gunwale for installation.

In my case, I needed clamp-on oar locks as they were originally installed on my Sportsman 12 Jon Boat.

2. Consider Material and Durability

Oar locks come in various materials including aluminum, stainless steel, and plastic. The material you choose will depend on your budget, personal preference, and how often you use your boat.

I opted for stainless steel as it is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, making it perfect for use in water environments. However, if you are on a tight budget or only use your boat occasionally, plastic may be a more affordable option for you.

3. Measure Your Gunwale Width

Before making a purchase, it is important to measure the width of your gunwales to ensure that the replacement oar locks will fit properly. You can do this by using a measuring tape or ruler.

If you have clamp-on oar locks, make sure to measure both the top and bottom sections of your gunwales as they may have different widths. For side-mount oar locks, measure only one section of your gunwales as they will be permanently mounted in that specific location.

4. Check Compatibility with Oars

You also want to make sure that the replacement oar locks are compatible with your current oars. This includes checking if they have similar sized holes for insertion and if they are designed to fit round or square-shaped shafts.

If you are unsure about compatibility, it is always best to bring one of your current oars with you when purchasing replacement oar locks or consult with a store representative before making a purchase.

5. Read Reviews

Reading reviews from other customers who have purchased and used the same brand and type of oar lock can give valuable insights into their durability and performance on different types of boats.

I personally found this helpful when making my decision as I was able to get a better understanding of how well certain brands held up over time in real-life usage scenarios.

6. Compare Prices

To ensure that I was getting the best deal possible without sacrificing quality, I compared prices from different retailers both online (such as Amazon) and in-store (at local boating supply stores). This allowed me to find the best price for the exact same product without having to compromise on quality.

Conclusion

Purchasing replacement oar locks may seem like a daunting task at first, but by following these steps you can ensure that you find the right ones for your specific needs at a reasonable price point. Remember to take into consideration compatibility with your boat, material durability, measurements, reviews from other customers, and price comparisons before making a final purchase decision. With these factors in mind, you can confidently replace your old worn-out oar locks with new ones that will provide smooth rowing experiences for years to come.

Author Profile

Avatar
Teddy and Steve
Since 2017, Teddy and Steve have been at the forefront of providing expertly crafted cuisine across the Golden State. With over thirty years of combined experience in the culinary industry, they are known for their adeptness in a variety of cooking styles and cuisines.

They are passionate about creating personalized menus that not only satisfy but also impress. Each dish is prepared with the utmost attention to the seasonality and freshness of ingredients, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience for guests. Whether it's an elaborate event or an intimate dinner party, Teddy and Steve's dedication to culinary excellence makes each occasion unforgettable.

Starting in 2024, the dynamic duo has ventured into the digital world by initiating an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new chapter extends their culinary expertise to the online audience, offering in-depth reviews and practical advice on kitchen tools, cooking gadgets, and culinary products.