Find the Best Jon Boat for Fishing
By Debbie Hanson
Mar 07, 2018
Learn which features to look for when selecting the best jon boat for fishing. Fishing jon boats offer certain advantages for beginning boaters, anglers.
Finding the best jon boat for fishing isn't hard. Jon boats are one of the most versatile types of fishing boats you can buy. These types of boats are easy to trailer to different waterways and are simple to fish from. In fact, if you are new to boating, a jon boat makes an ideal first vessel -- particularly if you like to target bass and panfish on small waterways.
If you're not exactly sure what features to look for when selecting a fishing jon boat, don't worry. Here are a few tips can help you find the best jon boat for fishing.
- Look for an aluminum flat-bottomed jon boat that is stable and rugged. If you are still learning the boating basics, this boat will hold up to brushes with rocky shorelines or bumps into docks.
- When choosing a fishing boat of any type, having enough storage space for tackle and safety gear is important. Consider the type of fishing you generally do. If you tend to fish with live bait instead of artificial lures, you may want to be sure that the jon boat you choose has a wetwell. Jon boats in the 15 to 20 foot range usually offer at least one storage compartment or wetwell compartment.
- If you are likely to take fishing trips with a friend or family member, find a jon boat that offers plenty of room for two people, plus your fishing gear. A fishing jon boat that is at least 14 feet in length would be your best choice. 14 or 15 foot jon boats will generally have two bench seats.
- When deciding how much power you need, consider the size of the waterways you like to fish and the distance you plan on covering. Some anglers can get away with only an electric trolling motor, others may want to consider a gas-powered outboard (5 to 15 hp is adequate).
- Find out if the jon boat comes with a warranty of any kind. Many jon boats come with a 3-year limited warranty, although warranty details will vary from one boat manufacturer to the next.
Learning more about the features of different types of boats can help you make a smart decision about which boat is best for you and your family. Whether you get a jon boat for bass fishing or a flats boat for catching redfish, your boat will be the source of endless memories on the water, so choose wisely!
