Input on sizing a basic jon boat setup...

[scout-j-m]

For 2-3 people, a riveted 14x48 with a 25 hp is a great all around setup. There are an abundance of used riveted boats in that size as well as used 25hp outboards. With you and a child, a well tuned 9.9hp should plane it fine but if you don't have any hp restrictions you might as well put on what the boat it rated for. Going up to a 1648 would probably allow you to move up to a 40hp. There are lots of older OMC's in the 18-40hp range that are in good running condition and can be had for $500-600.

[Erin Brewer]

I have a waco 1436 and i love it, but I would be happier with a little wider boat because the 30s are pretty wobbly on the water. But It can be done with no problem. I run in rivers and grenada lake with no problems just have to watch the wind on the lake. I even spider rig out of.

[huntinslabs]

1448 or 1648 and dont look back. Smaller will only be uncomfortable anx wife and kids will not want anything to do with it.

[skeetbum]

I have to start with background. I turn 60 this year and that has changed what I'll consider. Mobility issues aren't bad yet but I see them coming. I have owned jon's from 8 to 16 feet in 2 foot increments. To cut to the chase, width is the biggest factor in keeping everyone comfy. Under 42 inches they don't give much leeway should someone lose their balance, where 42 and better have proven able to take someone of size catching their balance and not sending the group swimming. My last boat was a 1648 stick and low back discomfort was the biggest reason it went and my current boat came in. To my way of thinking, a bare bones 1648 jon with the standard bench seats with a 25 and a 55lb TM, preferably a Terrova for the obvious reasons, has no interior to warrant inside storage and gives plenty of room and comfort for 2 and the extra room for 3. I fished 4 out of my 1648 once and we didn't have any issues but I wouldn't make a habit of it. I've seen some available used near me for $2500 and some cheaper but the cheaper ones had older motors and other issues. Good luck with your decision and finding what you need, they're tough as nails and become a good friend really quick.

[drfish]

I would go no smaller than a 14 ft. used one for years with two and 3 people. Had a 1988 9.9 merc on boat with just me or dad(250 to 290) the boat would run 20 to 25 mph, with both we could do 15 to 18.

[Cane Pole]

I like Jon boats. My casket is gonna be a Jon boat. My Crappie Jon (Alumacraft) is a 1452, 15hoss T/T, stick steer and dressed out. At my age, worst part is gettin in and gettin out.

This is an upgrade from an old (1962 model) I owned for 45 years.

old 1962



new 2008

[Eagle 1]

I just got a 1648 war eagle and love it . cheap ? not really .

[BTB]

Another vote for 1448 or bigger. Anything less will be too small. I duck hunted/ fished out of a 1436 with a 9.8hp for years and 2 people was one too many. Good luck with your search for a boat.

[tenncrappie]

Lot of folks try to start small and go cheap and I can understand that but if it were I from what I've learned I would start with no less than a 16ft with at least a 20 hp. Why you say for safety first and room to move. also if you decide to get out you can pretty much find someone looking for this type rig.

[scout-j-m]

FWIW, I plan on buying a new Alumactaft 1648 NCS (no center seat) flat bottom in the next couple of weeks. Prices vary by a pretty large margin but my local dealer sells them for $1800 pretax. I have seen them online for as high as 2500 for just the hull too.