I’ve answered many questions about Jon boats (see here) and a popular question is how wide a Jon boat should be. Below you can see the short answer to this question about the average width of a Jon boat.
On average, the width of a Jon boat will fall between a beam width of 48 inches for a 10 foot, 60 inches wide for a 12-foot boat, and about 70 inches wide for a 14-foot Jon boat. Typically, the length falls between 8 to 24 feet, inches ranging between 32 and 60.
When looking at the size of the boat the aim should be to choose one that suits you.
The choice of size should also be influenced by the level of the water you intend floating on. Normally, the boats are flat-bottomed but that does not imply they can float on every size of water. Determine your location and make the right choice.
Have in mind that there are different sizes out there.
The sizes typically start from the smaller version (8 foot extending to 20 foot and beyond). If you are not pleased with the traditional settings, you can negotiate with the manufacturer for a custom-built boat. While this can be tasking and costly venture, it gives the advantage of getting the exact Jon boat you desire.
Now, there are many sizes that are available. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll take a review of each of them.
How wide is an 8-foot Jon boat?
Without a doubt, this is about the smallest variation in Jon boat sizes. Some users will find the few inches it occupies just right for what they want to do.
However, it might not have the stability of the larger Jon boat sizes.
Despite this downside, it is still a good choice; especially for people that are looking for a smaller boat, and those that are working on a budget.
The 8-foot Jon boat does not have the capacity to hold a lot of weight. Are you making the purchase for hunting purposes or to take a ride on a cool night? So, consider the type of activity you will be using it for before buying.
The boat has the capacity to clock a top speed of 5mph on a maximum horsepower of 2.5hp. For a boat that can hold less weight (preferably two persons of lower body mass), the speed is quite commendable.
How wide is a 10-foot Jon boat?
Around 48 inches on average.
You would agree that as the numbers increase, the stability and weight capacity of the boat will also get the same touch. The 10-foot Jon boat is a typical entry-level format in this market.
There are versions that have the basic 3hp, and others that can go as high as 5hp. It all depends on your choice. In addition to this, it is able to attain 5mph when working on a 3.5hp engine and record a feat of 10mph on a 5hp engine.
You will be getting enough space that can contain more loads.
The boat is not all that different from the 8 foot, as both have a maximum carriage of 2 persons. However, the 10 foot can support two people with higher body weights, which is way better than what you get on the 8 foot.
How wide is a 12-foot Jon boat?
Around 48 to 60 inches on average.
This is where the game gets interesting. One recurring feature is the maximum of 2 passengers. But if you can look beyond this, you will realize that the boat has better performance than the previous two.
For the performance, it packs different horsepower such as the 5, 7, and 10ph. If the one you bought has a 7.5hp engine, you will be on the way to clocking 15mph when on board. Otherwise, 10mph is the basic speed that is peculiar to the 12 foot Jon boat.
How wide is a 14-foot Jon boat?
Around 57 to 70 inches on average.
This size takes the leap by allowing you to take two more people along with you.
As expected, the horsepower also can get a touch higher. It could go up to 20hp with some lengths featuring a 25hp engine. In terms of speed, a 25hp can clock a top speed of 25 miles per hour. Likewise, 20 miles per hour is attainable on the 20hp version.
How wide is a 16-foot Jon boat?
A 16-foot Jon boat has the capacity to carry about 1,000 pounds of weight. This implies that four passengers could get aboard and still have extra space to store accessories and equipment.
With a 35hp engine, the boat can cover 30 miles in an hour. This is quite impressive. On the flip side, bear in mind that the extra weight capacity it conveys might slow down the speed.
How wide is an 18-foot Jon boat?
Around 75 inches on average.
For some people, this is the last of the Jon boats they would ever considering buying.
For weight capacity, it can take up to 6 passengers, plus equipment. For the speed, the boat can cover 35 miles in an hour (with loads), and 45 miles per hour (when the loads are reduced). In addition, it can take a 60 horsepower engine comfortably.
How wide is a 20-foot Jon boat?
Here comes the last in the family of Jon boats. The 20 foot boat can take up to 8 passengers at a stretch. You can fit horsepower between the ranges of 75-115. To this end, a top speed of 45 miles per hour is not unusual.
General Use
The varied sizes of the Jon boat have a specific scope – fishermen, hunters, and for people that want to take leisurely boat trips. So, when making a choice, consider what you intend to use it for and capacities of each of the boats.
Related questions
Who invented the Jon Boat?
Many clues point to the fact that the late Charlie Barnes, from Missouri, who was also a Jon boat builder and river guide had a significant hand in the invention of the Jon boat.
Why is it called “Jon Boat?”
The concept was formed from the development of the boat. It started with the renaming of the jack pine for the construction to “Jack”, which later became “John”. The boat itself came to be known as “Ozark John Boat”.
How much does a 14-foot Jon Boat weigh?
It has an average weight of 125kg.
How do you measure a Jon boat?
If you want to find out the width of the boat, measure the beam width. If you want to ascertain the length of the Jon boat, measure from the center of the transom (rear of the boat) to the bow (the front tip of the boat).
What is a Jon Boat used for?
It is suitable for hunting and fishing in the main.
How much does Jon Boat weigh?
The boat approximately weighs 500 pounds on average.
