Jon Boats

1. You may not know what kind of jon boat you want just yet, but you almost certainly know what you want to do with it. For fishing and trolling, you can't beat jon boats and mini pontoon boats- so now let's figure out exactly which boat is right for you.

2. Let's start with aluminum jon boats. These are sturdily constructed out of lightweight aluminum (usually aluminum alloys) and have sections joined together using welds or rivets.

3. Welded joints are more desirable than riveted joints in aluminum jon boats. Welds are stronger and are less likely to allow leakage. Over time, riveted joints can loosen or lose their shape, which can result in your jon boat taking on water. Any fisherman worth his salt knows that's never a good idea.

4. Aluminum jon boats are popular for their traditional design, quality workmanship, portability, and durability compared to lower end plastic jon boats. That being said, advances in plastics have made some plastic jon boats more durable (and sometimes more expensive) than aluminum options.

5. The quality of plastic used to construct a plastic jon boat is the key factor in determining the boat's durability. In general, price serves as a reliable indicator of plastic quality. However, there are plenty of features and frills that are packed on to jon boats these days; know that these also contribute to price.

6. Plastic jon boats are in increasingly popular choice thanks to advances in plastic quality. Many plastic jon boats can withstand serious impacts against rocks, docks, and other objects, and return to their original shape unharmed.

7. We also have mini pontoon boats available. These are also known as mini bass boats, and they differ from jon boats in a very specific way. Mini pontoon boats / mini bass boats have a V-shaped bow, whereas the bow of a jon boat is flat.

8. The V-shaped front of mini pontoon boats is far better suited for cutting through deeper, choppier waters than flat-bowed boats. If your fishing adventures will take you into bigger waters, you'll want the superior performance and stability of a mini pontoon boat.

9. Most jon boats and mini pontoon boats do not come with a motor. As you shop, be sure to note the maximum horsepower motor for which each boat is designed so you don't end up with more power than boat- a surefire recipe for wetness.

10. Finally, think about what features you want on your jon boat. Cup holders, built-in coolers, and rod holders may seem unnecessary, but keep in mind that jon boats are designed for leisurely outings. And since things will be leisurely, pay special attention to the seats. You'll be spending a good chunk of time in yours, so you probably don't want to skimp on comfort.