Jon Boats

If you have been interested in boating for any time, then you may have heard someone refer to a jon fishing boat. Have you ever wondered what people are talking about? A jon fishing boat – not a “john” boat, is a type of fishing boat that is very versatile. Here are just a few of the things that you need to know about the best jon boats on the market today.

Jon Boat Details

Average Length: 8 to 20 ft. 
Capacity: 5 
Propulsion Type: Outboard engine, paddle 
Trailerable: Yes 
Hull Type: Flat 

How You Can Equip a Jon Boat for Fishing

These boats are known to be utility boats, though they can be used for fishing. Jon boats are frequently seen at marinas as they make great boats for moving equipment, fixing docks, checking retention walls and installing emergency swim ladders before the season starts. Equipping a jon boat for fishing would include simple changes, such as adding rod holders, coolers and swivel chairs for comfort.

Advantages of Jon Boats

These boats have a unique type of boat hull, which is one of their major advantages. Jon boats are known to be flat bottomed boats, which offer users a very stable ride. This is one of the reasons that so many jon boats are used for fishing and for utility reasons around a marina. You can easily get in and out of them as well as move around while you are on the water. The flat bottom of the design makes this possible.

Advice From Experts

Experts suggest that you consider the different hull types used in a jon boat. Some boats offer tunnel hulls. While jon boats are known to have flat bottoms, some of the most popular designs include a tunnel hull. The tunnel hull, a small area that curves up from the base of the hull, allows an outboard engine to be pulled up if need be. This may prevent accidents, such as running over a log, which can damage outboard engines and may require the propeller to be repaired and rebalanced.

Modified V-hull jon boats work on choppier waters. If you want to use your jon boat on rivers or lakes where there may be more chop to deal with, then a modified V-hull may be your best bet. This design includes a V area in the front of the hull, rather than the traditional flat bottom traditional jon boat design. Realistically, if you are planning on boating on waters that do have a fair amount of wave action, then a jon boat may not be the best option. You may want to look at a boat that has a V-hull, which provides more cutting action through heavier waters.

Why Buy a Jon Boat

These boats can be found in a range of prices. There are cheap jon boats on the market that can fit almost any budget. These are an excellent way to try your hand at fishing and boating without breaking the bank. If you do decide on a jon boat, you will find that it is one of the best ways to get started in fishing and boating. Known for their flat, stable bottom, jon boats are an excellent way to have a fun day on the water.

Don’t forget to register your boat, check your state boating rules and regulations before you leave the dock. Learn more about multihull cruisers in our next section.