Things to know before buying a Jon boat
The first thing to consider is size. Your choice of size will depend not only on what you're going to use your boat for, but also on how you're going to transport it. If you want to put it in the bed of a pick-up truck or on the roof of a car, stick to models no longer than 10 feet. For a longer boat, you'll need a trailer.
Another criterion is stability. Although the shape of a Jon boat makes it stable, there are now models with tunnels that are very efficient. On the other hand, you lose a little space on board.
But, if you often sail in choppy waters, a slightly V-shaped hull is more appropriate.
Material is also an important consideration. Here again, for a lightweight unit, aluminum is the best choice. For a more flattering appearance, fiberglass boats offer a better finish, but are heavier.
Finally, polypropylene is a very resistant material, but heavy and not always very flattering aesthetically, although things are improving.
The final point to consider is the layout. While smaller models are very basic, larger boats often offer lockers and even livewells. Some are also equipped with rod holders, a good call for fishing.
A very popular boat
While it's difficult to know the exact number of Jon boats sold each year, since registrations are only recorded by size, we can estimate that Jon boat sales in the USA are somewhere between 40,000 and 50,000 units a year, mainly in the central part of the USA.
Leading brands include Bass Pro shop, Sun Dolphin, Lowe, Pelican, Edgewater, SeaArk, Crestliner, G3, Lund, Tracker and the list goes on.
How much does a Jon boat cost?
The smallest models, around 9 to 10 feet, are priced at around $600 without motor. They can be used with oars or a small gasoline or electric outboard motor.
Between 10 and 15 feet, you're looking at budgets of $1,500 to $4,000 without motor. For a complete package, you're looking at $6,000 to $12,000.
Finally, for longer, better-equipped models with larger motors, the price ranges from $15,000 to $35,000.
The last option is the second-hand market, where you'll find a wide choice of second-hand models.
