Jon Boats: Everything You Need To Know - DIVEIN (2024)

Jon Boats for Beginners

What is a Jon Boat and Why Would I Want One?

Many people see a ski or bass boat as THE ONLY way to enjoy the water. The size, speed and multiple roles these boats offer are definitely appealing, but a Jon boat can be just as versatile and, in some ways, even more useful?

Advertised as utility boats, Jon boats are small- to medium-sized and most often constructed of aluminum or plastic (polyurethane). They have multiple hull variations such as vee, deep vee, tunnel and flat-bottomed, with the flat being the most predominant form.

Jon boats come in a variety of sizes, from the smallest at 10 feet all the way up to 26 feet. Jon boats can also be purchased with a wide range of pre-installed accessories such as in- and outboard motors, steering, swivel seats, rod holders and more!

Depending on the size of the boat and the activities desired, attention should be paid to getting the right outboard motor too.

Jon boats are most often used in freshwater lakes and rivers because their stability becomes questionable in high wind and strong water. Though fairly stable and certainly usable in saltwater, large freshwater bodies and rapid water with the right awareness, it’s best if Jon boats are kept out of waves and powerful currents.

An additional challenge to be aware of is the wake coming off of barges and tugs. But like most things, these challenges aren’t dangerous when awareness and reason lead the way.

If a person must brave such conditions in a Jon boat, a vee-hull is the best choice as this hull is most controllable in these situations. Even in calmer waters, a boater should ensure they evenly distribute weight in a Jon boat as imbalance will make them unstable.

Jon boats are best known as simple fishing boats, but their capabilities extend much further. They can be great for an enjoyable trip along a river, be hunted from and used for camping.

Probably most surprising is that with a motor properly sized to the Jon boat being driven, they can even be used for water sports! However, a Jon boat’s defining characteristic is its light weight and wide body which are ideal for transporting people and equipment in water as shallow as 2 inches! Generally stable and safe if used properly, Jon boats are an affordable, versatile option for family and friends to enjoy just as much as sports people.

What Does a Jon Boat Cost?

The available variations, sizes and amenities for a Jon boat translate to a very wide range of prices. It is well worth considering purchasing a used Jon boat since the simplicity of their design makes identifying any problems fairly simple. Additionally, the difference in price between new and used can be significant, depending on what you’re searching out.

The least expensive, new Jon boats are 10 – 12 footers starting at around $600 and will be bare bones with no accessories of note, bench seats and no trailer (though this size can fit easily in the bed of a truck). For the same $600 it is very possible to find a used, good condition, longer Jon boat with a few add-ons such as rod holders, anchor and maybe even a trolling motor. In addition, you could even find that used boat already on a trailer!

As pricing increases on a Jon boat so do its amenities and this is true of buying new or used. However, with new boats, this is especially so as items like engines get bigger and more varied. The cost of a new, 14+ foot, outfitted Jon boat easily averages between $18,000 and $45,000.

If watersports are in the cards, a bowrider might be the thing. But those start at a higher price and also require more maintenance and transportation.

What Are a Jon Boat’s Pros and Cons?

If you are intent on purchasing a Jon boat, you should definitely consider both its ups and downs. It would be a waste of money to realize after your purchase that a Jon boat is insufficient for your needs. To that end, here is a list of Jon boat pros and cons:

Jon boat pros:

1. Ease of use in shallows makes a Jon boat ideal for inland waterways.
2. Jon boats are exceptionally stable in calm waters.
3. Light weight makes Jon boats easy to transport and maneuver.
4. Jon boats are easy to accessorize.
5. Due to their quick planing, Jon boats are comfortable even at speed.

Jon boat cons:

1. The most notable drawback to a Jon boat is its low freeboard (the wall height of the boat). That shallowness makes for real danger in high and strong water conditions.
2. Jon boats can be extremely unstable if weight is not properly distributed.
3. Due to their very low profile, Jon boats can be difficult to see at night (lights or lanterns mitigate this).

As with any water activity the correct safety equipment is a must, just in case something troublesome does happen. Using proper lighting, life vests fitted for each individual, a throwable flotation device, and both visual and sound signaling devices are imperative to the safe operation of any boat. Employing that equipment and careful boat operation will help ensure you avoid the negative outcomes mentioned above.

A properly planned excursion on a Jon boat can be fun and provide a tremendous amount of satisfaction. With so many variations to choose from it’s almost guaranteed you can find something to fit your budget and meet your needs.

Depending on the Jon boat you choose, the extras you add and the trip you have planned, you may never want to return to land!

Read more on Boats:

• Best and Biggest Boat Shows
• What You Need to Know About Boat Storage
• Learn to sail
• Your Guide on Nautical Flags
• Boat Loan Calculator
• Boating Right of Way Rules

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