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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-08-01 Origin: Site
A universal aluminum jon boat layout can help you enjoy both fishing and hunting. You get open deck space, modular seating, and versatile storage. These features let you move freely and switch gear quickly. Aluminum jon boats work well in shallow water. They have a low draft, so they disturb less of the riverbed and plants. The best jon boat brands use marine-grade aluminum, which lasts and is easy to recycle. Many jon boat models avoid fiberglass or wood, so they keep wetlands clean. You can choose the best river jon boats for your needs. Think about how you fish and hunt, and pick the setup that fits you.
Aluminum jon boats have a light footprint and low horsepower. This means less wake and less erosion.
They use foam-filled hulls, which lower the risk of debris in the water.
You should refill carefully and take trash with you to protect fish and birds.
Pick an open deck so you have lots of room. You can move around easily when you fish or hunt.
Use seats that you can take out or move. This helps you change your boat for each trip. It also keeps your boat sturdy.
Add smart storage like decks with hinges and rod holders. These help you keep your gear neat and your boat clean.
Use camouflage paint and covers to hide while hunting. This helps you stay out of sight and do better.
Always follow safety rules and bring life jackets. Check local laws before you go on the water.
You want an open deck when you set up your aluminum jon boat for fishing and hunting. This design gives you lots of space for gear, game, and friends. You can move around easily. The open deck lets you set up decoys or lay out rods without tripping over things. It works well in shallow water, so you can reach hidden spots for both fishing and hunting. The flat or Mod-V hull keeps the boat stable. You get a smooth ride and can stand up safely. The open deck also makes cleaning simple. Mud, fish guts, or feathers wash away fast because there is no carpet.
Tip: Keep the deck low and close to the ribs. This helps you stay balanced and makes standing easier.
Modular seating gives you flexibility. Removable seats let you change the layout for each trip. You can add a center seat with a livewell for fishing or take it out for more hunting space. Bench seats help keep the hull strong. If you remove one, add extra bracing to keep your boat safe. Lightweight seats are easy to move and store. You can set up for two or three people, which fits most fishing and hunting trips.
| Seat Type | Best Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bench Seat | Fishing/Hunting | Adds hull strength |
| Removable Seat | Fishing/Hunting | Easy to move or store |
| Center Seat | Fishing | Can include livewell/storage |
Smart storage keeps your aluminum jon boat tidy. Use under-deck space for gear. Add a hinged front deck to make a hidden storage spot. Install rod holders for fishing trips. Deck hatches give you more room for decoys or tackle. Try not to cut into benches unless you add support. Use mounts that do not need big changes to the boat. This keeps your boat strong and safe.
Hinged front deck for hidden storage
Rod holders for fishing rods
Deck hatches for extra space
Under-deck mounts for gear
Camouflage helps you blend in during hunting. Many aluminum jon boats come in dead grass green or camo paint. This finish hides you from ducks and other game. Some boats have textured flat bottoms for better grip when you move around. You can add blind grass or camo netting for extra cover. Center console layouts give you a full view and let you move quietly. The rugged aluminum build stands up to rough hunting trips.
Note: Choose a camo finish and add natural cover for the best stealth in hunting spots.
When you pick an aluminum jon boat for fishing and hunting, you need to think about several things:
Marine-grade aluminum, like 5052 or 6061, gives you strength and durability. Thicker hulls (0.08" to 0.125") last longer.
Welded hulls stay strong over time. Riveted hulls cost less but may need repairs.
Flat-bottom hulls work best in shallow, calm water. Modified-V hulls handle waves better and give a smoother ride.
A wider beam means more stability, which helps when you stand or move around.
Always check the boat’s capacity plate. It tells you how much weight and how many people you can carry.
Boats over 16 feet, like tracker grizzly jon boats, excel viper f4, or g3 gator tough, give you more space for gear and people.
Think about how you will move your boat. Smaller boats fit in a truck bed. Bigger ones need a trailer.
Look at the total cost, including storage and fuel.
Tip: Choose a hull type based on where you spend most of your time—shallow backwaters or open lakes.
You can set up your aluminum jon boats for both fishing and hunting by following these steps:
Reinforce mounting points for seats and decks using heavy-duty brackets.
Build a deck frame from 2x4 lumber. Measure and cut to fit your boat.
Cut plywood for the deck. Make access doors for storage.
Attach plywood using strong adhesives. Add scrap wood under seams for support.
Seal all wood parts with waterproof sealer and fiberglass resin.
Use stainless steel or brass hardware to prevent rust.
Design decks to be removable for hunting season.
Keep electrical wiring away from the hull to stop corrosion.
You can make your boat one of the best jon boats for fishing by adding:
Rod holders for easy access
Swivel or bench seating for comfort
Motor mounts at the front and back
Oar locks for rowing
Tunnel hulls for better tracking
Many anglers choose camo finishes for both fishing and hunting. You can also add electronics or livewells to match your fishing style.
For hunting, you can add:
Camouflage paint or netting for stealth
Shooting platforms for a steady shot
Decoy storage under the deck
Vinyl-lined floors to keep noise down
Flexible seating and storage for gear
The open deck layout in aluminum jon boats lets you change setups fast.
Stay safe and legal on the water:
Ground the hull to the AC safety ground and DC negative.
Use isolation transformers to prevent electrical hazards.
Keep DC wiring away from the hull to stop corrosion.
Use aluminum anodes for protection.
Follow ABYC or marine safety codes.
Hire a pro for electrical work if you are unsure.
Note: Always check local laws before you launch your aluminum jon boat for fishing and hunting.
You want to feel good on the boat all day. Better seats can help a lot. Adjustable seat pedestals let you pick your seat height. Some, like the Oceansouth Shock Absorbing Adjustable Waverider Pedestal, use shock absorption. This helps you feel less tired. Swivel seats spin all the way around. You can turn any way you want. Pick seats made from materials that do not rust. These last longer when they get wet. Some pedestals can change from a seat to a leaning post. This gives you more ways to sit or stand.
Tip: Pick seats that are strong and simple to put in. This keeps you safe and saves time.
Organized gear is easy to find. The Boat Tote clips onto the gunnel. You do not need to drill holes. It holds rods, tools, drinks, and your phone. You can use it on different boats. Tackle boxes with lots of spaces keep lures and hooks neat. Small organizers save room and stop spills. Some storage units hold rods, tackle trays, and tools together. This keeps your boat neat and clean.
No-drill storage keeps your boat from leaking.
EVA rubber pads hold hooks and lures safely.
Stainless steel fasteners make things stronger.
Electronics help you catch fish and stay safe. Many people use a trolling motor with spot lock. This helps you control the boat better. Bow-mounted graph units, about 7 to 9 inches, show what is under the water. Forward-facing sonar lets you see what is ahead. Shallow water anchors like the MinnKota Talon keep your boat still. Foot-controlled trolling motors let you steer without using your hands.
| Electronics | Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Trolling Motor | Spot Lock, Foot Control | Easy to keep your spot |
| Bow Graph Unit | Down Imaging Sonar | Helps you find fish |
| Forward Sonar | 7"+ Screen | Shows fish in front |
| Shallow Water Anchor | Power-Pole, Talon | Holds boat in shallow water |
You need to hide well when you hunt. Custom-fit boat blinds like the BUST'EM Boat Blind use light aluminum frames. They cover your boat with QuietHide® shells. You can add grass or camo to hide better. Welded wire keeps the camo in place. Overhead covers hide you until you want to shoot. These blinds fit most jon boats and come off for fishing.
Safety is always most important. You need a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for everyone. Bring a whistle or horn to make noise. Take visual distress signals for night. A fire extinguisher is needed if you have a gas engine. Ventilation ducts and backfire flame arrestors keep you safe from engine problems. Always bring a first aid kit and a small toolbox with extra parts.
Life jackets (one for each person)
Sound device (whistle or horn)
Fire extinguisher (if you need one)
First aid kit
Visual distress signals
Note: Check your state rules for more safety steps.
You get more from your boat with a universal layout. It makes your boat steady. You can go in shallow water. The boat runs quietly. These things help you fish and hunt in many places. Here are some top models for both fishing and hunting:
| Model | Use Case | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Lowe 1648M | Fishing/Hunting | Stable, customizable |
| Sea Ark RXT 180 | All-around | Fast, spacious |
| Crestliner 1860 Retriever | Fishing/Hunting | Versatile, accessories |
| Veer V13 by Lund | Solo fishing | Sturdy, affordable |
| Starcraft Alaskan 15 DLX | Multi-use | Durable, adaptable |
You can choose the best river jon boats for your area. Add storage, seats, and safety gear to make your trip better.
You want an open deck, modular seating, and smart storage. This Jon Boat Setup : The Best Universal Layout for a Jon Boat lets you switch between fishing and hunting fast. It keeps your gear organized and gives you space to move.
Pick a wide, flat-bottom hull. It spreads your weight and keeps the boat steady. You can stand or move without tipping. Add non-slip mats for extra grip. This Jon Boat Setup works well for both fishing and hunting.
Yes, you can add fish finders, trolling motors, and navigation lights. Use waterproof mounts and keep wires off the deck. This keeps your Jon Boat Setup safe and easy to use in any weather.
Most people choose boats from 16 to 18 feet. This size gives you room for gear, friends, and storage. It fits most rivers and lakes. You can tow it with a small truck or SUV.
Paint your boat in camo colors or use a camo net. Add grass mats or natural brush. You can use a removable blind for extra cover. This Jon Boat Setup : The Best Universal Layout for a Jon Boat helps you stay hidden from ducks and other game.
