Best 11 Jon Boats

If you are an avid fishing enthusiast and frequently navigate in shallow waters, then a jon boat should be a great choice for you. Thanks to its flat bottom structure, this type of boat is more adaptable to shallow water environments. The stability it offers while moving in calm waters is another commendable advantage.

To assist every enthusiast in finding the most suitable jon boat for them, we have thoroughly reviewed nearly 100 jon boats available in the market. In the end, we have narrowed down the selection to the 11 most reliable jon boats, covering various sizes and price ranges. Below are the specific details and brief descriptions of the best jon boats, hoping that our evaluations will be of help to you.

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Name of Boats	Overall length	Maximum person capacity	Prices
lowe roughneck 1860 rambler	18′	6	$21,385
lowe roughneck 1860 cc	18′	7	$26,767
Tracker Grizzly 2072 CC	21’5″	9	$31,595
2023 12FT Jon Boat ThrustTrek Model	12′	2	$ 1,200
sun dolphin pro 12	11.3′	2	$ 2,199
Crestliner 2070 Retriever CC	20′	7	$30,087
TRACKER GRIZZLY® 2072 CC SPORTSMAN	21′ 5”	5	$39,995
2023 Alumacraft Jon Boat Drift Hoper Model	25.9′	4	$8,500
2023 Fishing Jon Boat Elegant Sailfish Model		6	$8,800
SeaArk 1872 MV JT CC	18′	11	$22,990
War Eagle 542FLD	15’3″	4	$11,900

Lowe Roughneck 1860 Rambler ($21,385)

Overall length: 18′  

Maximum horsepower: 60HP

MaximumS capacity: 6 persons

What we like about it: The reasonable functional layout provides great convenience for fishing activities on the boat.

What we didn’t like about it: The 12-gallon portable fuel tank may not support long-distance navigation.

The LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER earns its place as our top recommended boat today primarily because of its well-thought-out space layout and functional categorization, making it highly suitable for fishing excursions. The side console design of this boat provides passengers with ample room for movement. The driver can easily steer the boat using the steering wheel. Though the boat does not have a dedicated driver seat in its design, it considerately features a cushioned layer on the rear deck, ensuring a comfortable seating experience. The 19-gallon live well at the bow helps keep the caught prey fresh, and the storage compartments along the gunwales effectively protect fishing rods. The boat is thoughtfully free from unnecessary features, providing passengers with plenty of open space for activities. Even during more energetic movements, one can still move freely without feeling constrained.

Regrettably, the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER lacks additional storage space, so more equipment needs to be placed directly on the deck. During acceleration or deceleration, various items may slide around the cabin and even collide with the boat walls, potentially causing some damage to the equipment.

Lowe Roughneck 1860 cc ($26,767)

Overall length: 18′

Maximum horsepower: 90 HP

Maximum capacity: 7 persons

What we like about it: Its powerful fishing capabilities have caught the attention of many people.

What we don’t like about it: The starting price of over $25,000 is not considered cheap for a jon boat.

The LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 CC, like the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER mentioned earlier, belongs to the same brand and size of boats. However, their boat constructions differ slightly. The 1860 CC’s center console design provides the driver with a more advantageous driving perspective. This ensures better visibility of the surrounding waters and enhances safety during navigation.

This boat’s design considers passenger comfort. The two foldable fishing seats at the bow and stern maximize the anglers’ comfort. Of course, ample storage space is another highlight of the boat. The lockable storage compartments in front of the console and under the front and rear decks provide secure storage for various fishing gear and safety equipment. The boat achieves a high level of efficiency in utilizing space.

However, such comprehensive features come with a corresponding increase in the boat’s price, compounded by the premium associated with the LOWE brand. The starting price for this boat is over $26,000. If additional features are needed, the price of the boat can further escalate.

Tracker Grizzly 2072 CC ($31,595)

Overall length: 21’5″

Maximum horsepower: 150HP

Maximum capacity: 9 persons

What we like about it: The powerful propulsion system provides a solid foundation for boosting the boat’s speed.

What we don’t like about it: The length exceeding 21 feet brings many inconveniences when launching and retrieving the boat.

If you have specific speed requirements in your boat selection, the Tracker Grizzly 2072 CC might be an excellent choice. This boat can accommodate a maximum of 150HP engine, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. Of course, the larger boat size also offers certain advantages in terms of space. It can carry up to 9 people at a time, making it ideal for medium to large fishing expeditions.

As a professional fishing boat, the 2072 CC features a dual live well design, providing ample space capacity for catches. The spacious deck further extends the anglers’ activity area. Additionally, the rod storage compartments located on both sides of the console and inside the gunwales effectively secure the fishing rods, preventing potential collisions.

However, it cannot be denied that this larger-sized boat can be challenging to maneuver, especially when launching and retrieving. It typically requires multiple people working together, as controlling it alone would be difficult.

2023 12FT Jon Boat ThrustTrek Model ($1,200.00)

Overall length: 12′

Maximum horsepower: 10HP

What we like about it: The lightweight and compact design of the boat make it easy to move around.

What we didn’t like about it: The 10HP propulsion system may not provide enough speed for the boat.

The biggest highlight of this boat is its small and lightweight design. With a 12-foot size, the boat weighs only 104 pounds, making it easy for even one person to transport it to the water. This portable boat offers a convenient means of transportation for solo adventurers. Moreover, the boat supports both paddling and a 10-horsepower engine as propulsion options. This way, passengers won’t be stranded in the water if any issues arise with the engine.

The boat’s three transoms inside the cockpit provide more seating options, ensuring a comfortable experience even when multiple people are onboard. Regarding the boat’s welding methods, consumers can choose between more durable and refined TIG welding or more cost-effective extrusion welding. Both methods are good, but the choice should be based on individual preferences and needs.

Although the 12FT Jon Boat ThrustTrek Model’s propulsion system has a relatively low environmental impact on surrounding waters, the 10-horsepower drive may not offer considerable speed. If you plan to travel to distant locations, it may take longer to reach your destination.

SUN DOLPHIN PRO 12($ 2,199)

Overall length: 11.3′

Maximum horsepower: 10 HP

MaximumS capacity: 2 persons

What we like about it: The storage compartments below the deck provide ample space for fishing gear and personal items.

What we didn’t like about it: The smaller boat size can only accommodate 2 people at a time.

The SUN DOLPHIN PRO 12 has a length of just over 11 feet, making it compact and very convenient to carry. Even without using a trailer, placing the boat directly on the car’s roof is not impossible. Its maneuverability adds to the appeal of the boat.

Most importantly, the SUN DOLPHIN PRO 12 features a carpeted deck with three coolers underneath, providing a refreshing experience for passengers even in hot weather. For fishing functionality, the boat is designed with reserved wiring for a trolling motor, allowing buyers to add one according to their needs.

While smaller boat sizes do have the advantage of being lightweight, some concessions have to be made in terms of boat capacity. This boat can only accommodate a maximum of 2 people at a time, which may not be ideal for those who enjoy more lively activities on the water.

Crestliner 2070 Retriever CC ($30,087)

Overall length: 20′

Maximum horsepower: 150HP

Maximum capacity: 7 persons

What we like about it: Outstanding performance ensures the boat performs well during navigation.

What we don’t like about it: The heavier hull brings increased boat fuel consumption.

For those seeking an ultimate outdoor experience, the Crestliner 2070 Retriever CC is indeed a great choice.

Firstly, the powerful propulsion system provides ample driving force to facilitate increased speed. Secondly, the design of the center console is highly advantageous for the driver, making it easier to control the boat. Specially designed helm seats are elevated to provide the driver with a broader view of the surrounding waters, further enhancing boating safety. Lastly, the spacious front deck not only offers more activity space for anglers but also provides ample storage space below the deck to accommodate various fishing gear and safety equipment.

However, it’s important to note that this relatively large-sized boat inevitably comes with increased weight. This is not favorable for fuel consumption and can result in higher ongoing costs.

TRACKER GRIZZLY 2072 CC SPORTSMAN ($39,995)

Overall length: 21′ 5”

Maximum horsepower: 150HP

Maximum capacity: 5 persons

What we like about it: The elevated deck helps passengers observe the surrounding waters from a better perspective.

What we don’t like about it: The numerous devices requiring electrical power put significant pressure on the electrical system.

The TRACKER GRIZZLY® 2072 CC SPORTSMAN has a unique design that is relatively uncommon in the jon boat category. However, this doesn’t affect its exceptional performance. It is an impressive boat for bowfishing, and the elevated deck provides anglers with a higher position, allowing for a broader field of view. Additionally, the boat is equipped with 10 super-bright LED lights on the deck, offering excellent internal and external illumination. This ensures convenient navigation and fishing even in the dark.

However, this type of boat also comes with some challenges. The various lighting fixtures on the deck require a robust electrical system to support them. Especially with these super-bright bulbs, they may put significant pressure on the electrical system. Regarding the boat’s structure, the design of the center console situated behind the elevated deck may somewhat obstruct the driver’s visibility.

2023 Alumacraft Jon Boat Drift Hoper Model ($8,500)

Overall length: 25.9′

Maximum capacity: 4 persons

What we like about it: The highly corrosion-resistant aluminum used in this boat can withstand the effects of humid air.

What we don’t like about it: The simplistic boat structure means additional investment is required to add various specialized features.

If you’re struggling to find cheap boats for sale, you might want to take a look at the 2023 Alumacraft Jon Boat Drift Hoper Model. Unlike traditional jon boats that are prone to aging in humid environments, this boat is constructed using special 5052 aluminum, which helps it resist the effects of moist air. With its 7.9-meter-long flat hull, it can accommodate up to 4 passengers simultaneously, offering a comfortable and spacious riding experience. Thoughtful design details are evident in this boat’s construction. Sturdy handles and tow hooks greatly facilitate transportation or mooring operations. Additionally, the design of collision-resistant top stripes plays a crucial role in ensuring the boat’s safety and allows for a greater margin of error in the driver’s maneuvers.

However, from another perspective, this boat doesn’t come with many functional components in its standard configuration. If you want to make the boat more suitable for fishing on the water, you may need to purchase some additional features. But this inevitably leads to a corresponding increase in investment.

2023 Fishing Jon Boat Elegant Sailfish Model ($8,800)

Beam: 85″

Maximum horsepower: 90HP

Maximum capacity: 6 persons

What we like about it: The relatively full feature set brings great convenience to fishing activities.

What we don’t like about it: The 19-gallon fuel tank capacity is not very large and may have some impact on the long-distance navigation capabilities of the boat.

If you are looking for some high-value boats, the 2023 Fishing Jon Boat Elegant Sailfish Model we are about to mention should meet your requirements. This aluminum jon boat exemplifies the design concept of a multi-functional fishing vessel, striving to combine performance, comfort, and functionality seamlessly.

Firstly, the design of the center console provides the driver with a 360° unobstructed view, greatly facilitating the driver’s activities. Secondly, the camouflage color scheme of the boat helps it blend into the natural environment, avoiding disturbing fish schools, and enhancing hunting success. Lastly, the 23-gallon live well system and fishing rod holders offer great convenience for anglers, showcasing the boat’s functionality.

If we have to mention a drawback of this boat, it would probably be related to the engine. The maximum 90HP horsepower is not very large for a boat of this size, and the 19-gallon fuel capacity may not support long-distance navigation.

SeaArk 1872 MV JT CC ($22,990)

Overall length: 18′

Maximum horsepower: 80HP

Maximum capacity: 11 persons

What we like about it: The higher transom compared to traditional hulls provides more abundant space.

What we didn’t like about it: There is not much storage space below the deck in the cabin.

The SeaArk 1872 MV JT CC features a jet tunnel hull, which is relatively uncommon in the field of jon boats. To better accommodate the design of the jet outboard engine, the transom of this boat is higher than that of traditional boats, providing sufficient space for the engine to be raised and allowing the jet outboard engine to take in water. This also results in a deeper boat depth and subsequently increases the boat’s overall space. With a capacity to hold 11 people, this boat is considered quite spacious for a jon boat, making it suitable for activities with larger groups. Additionally, the 36-gallon fuel tank capacity ensures a certain level of continuous navigation capability.

However, SeaArk’s boat design lacks ample storage space below the deck. If you have more personal items to store, you may have to place them on the deck inside the cabin. This can lead to issues with securing items properly, and items may get damaged when colliding with the boat’s walls during navigation.

War Eagle 542FLD ($11,900)

Overall length: 15’3″

Maximum horsepower: 25HP

Maximum capacity: 4 persons

What We Like About It: The boat has a flat bottom that is perfect for traveling in some narrow, shallow waters.

What we didn’t like about it: This boat uses a tiller steering system, lacking the convenience of console-style steering.

The War Eagle 542FLD is a relatively basic model of boat, and its smaller size provides the advantage of being lightweight and easy to carry. The flat hull design is one of its major strengths. This design enhances the boat’s stability during still-water navigation, and a flat-bottom jon boat is well-suited for extremely shallow water environments.

Perhaps due to the limited size of the boat, it lacks a console design. Instead, the driver controls the boat directly using the tiller handle of the outboard engine, giving them direct control over the boat. While this may provide a more intuitive operation, it sacrifices some convenience and comfort for the driver.

Jon Boat Buying Tips:

• Propulsion System
• Boat Driving
• Flat-bottomed Design

Propulsion System

Most jon boats are primarily powered by outboard engines located at the transom. These engines use gasoline combustion to drive the propeller and generate forward thrust, ensuring the boat’s movement. Unlike driving a car, jon boats lack braking systems and rely on deceleration or reverse maneuvers to stop.

The maximum horsepower the engine provides directly affects the boat’s speed. Jon boats, being primarily used for fishing, do not necessarily prioritize speed. Therefore, the maximum horsepower for these boats typically ranges around 150HP, with basic models supporting horsepower of 100HP or below. While faster speeds can reduce travel time, it’s essential to consider the increase in fuel consumption at higher speeds.

In more professional jon boats, in addition to the primary outboard engine at the transom, there may be an added trolling motor at the bow. This electric-powered motor has the advantage of being silent, minimizing disturbances to fish. It is also straightforward to control, often operated with foot pedals, allowing precise positioning without bending over.

While the trolling motor has its advantages, it cannot replace the main power system. Due to its lower horsepower, it’s suitable for short-range movements. For longer distances, a stronger motor at the transom is a more cost-effective choice.

Boat Driving

A control console is not a mandatory component for jon boats, especially in smaller-sized boats where cabin space is limited. Many small fishing boats utilize a tiller steering system, with the driver controlling the boat directly using the engine’s control handle. While this reduces space consumption in the cabin, it may cause discomfort for the driver due to the prolonged leaning position during extended periods of driving.

Larger jon boats often use a control console for the convenience of the driver. The boat’s precise control is achieved through various components on the console. Consoles can be centralized or located on the side, depending on their position in the boat. Central consoles offer a better view of the surrounding waters and are considered safer. Moreover, having the console in the center helps with weight distribution on the boat.

Flat-bottomed Design

One prominent feature of the Jon boat’s design is its flat bottom, which is highly advantageous for navigating shallow waters. A standard Jon boat can typically travel in waters that are around one foot deep. However, this data is not absolute, as smaller and more lightweight boats can navigate in even shallower areas. It’s essential to note that the boat’s engine propeller and Jon boat accessories need to be fully submerged in the water for safety reasons.

The advantage of navigating in shallow waters is indeed appealing, as flat-bottom boats can reach places that other boats may find challenging to access. However, navigating in shallow waters may cause damage to both the boat and the environment. Complex underwater environments can harm the boat’s bottom, and the propeller may disrupt aquatic life, such as algae, disturbing the habitats of wildlife.

Summary

After conducting multiple tests, we have covered the most common Jon boat models in the market. The selection of these 11 boats also includes various brands to cater to the diverse needs of different people.

For those seeking powerful features, LOWE boats are undoubtedly a great choice. If you prioritize impressive speed, the Tracker Grizzly 2072 CC and Crestliner 2070 Retriever CC offer robust power systems that significantly increase the boat’s speed. Additionally, smaller and more portable boats are also popular in the Jon boat category. The 2023 12FT Jon Boat ThrustTrek Model, with its excellent cost-effectiveness, has caught the attention of many.

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