There are many reasons why jon boats are one of the most popular small craft on the market. Their extreme capacity to size ratio, stability and versatility are certainly important, but near the top of every buyer’s list is cost. Jon boats are known for being far cheaper than other boats in the same class, but cost is relative so it is not long before buyers are asking “How much will my jon boat cost?”
The price? It depends.
When a buyer asks the question “How much will a jon boat cost?” the only real answer is “it depends.” Although jon boats can be far cheaper than other similar sized boats the prices do vary. Size, construction material and available features, including possible options, all determine final price.
For example, a simple no frills 10ft. aluminum jon boat without an engine or trailer can be found for as little as $550. However, a fully outfitted 20ft. model can carry a price tag as high as $15,000. Adding only a few feet can cause the cost to double.
For these reasons it is more accurate to compare boats by length and then examine additional costs associated with getting it on the water such as the purchase price of an engine, safety equipment, registration and trailer.
With this in mind we will do just that – examine costs associated with jon boats by length and broken down by each of the standard sizes – 10ft, 12ft, 14ft., 16ft. and 18 ft. While examining each category we will also discuses best application and limitation.
How much does a 10ft jon boat cost?
A 10ft jon boat is the most basic of jon boats, offering a no-frills economical means for the sportsman to get on the water. Initial purchase prices range from $550-800 but will generally only include the hull itself. If buying new, there will be additional cost prior to making your maiden voyage including a motor, registration and required safety equipment.
Many users will save additional costs by avoiding the need to purchase a trailer, which can frequently cost as much or more than your new jon boat, as at this size you can slide the entire watercraft into the back of a pickup truck or use cheaper all-purpose utility trailer. Additional money can be saved if you choose to utilize an electric motor rather than a more expensive gas powered outboard. Both will supply enough thrust to move this small boat and maximum passengers effectively.
The downside of these smaller jon boats is just that, their small size. Although you will still enjoy increases stability and size to capacity ratio there is only so much you can ask from a 10ft craft. (We spent hours and hours researching the weight capacities and speeds of jon boats for each length of boat. Be sure to check out those articles for some helpful additional reading.)
This size jon boat is best suited for the local pond, or protected back bay areas, in good weather. You will not want to risk taking this boat into rough or fast-moving water, even with maximum power your ability to maneuver against the tide, current or weather will be extremely limit. Otherwise you will still enjoy the ability to access shallow areas and find your boat suitable for fishing, hunting and general transportation.
10ft Jon Boat: New vs. Used Cost
Used prices for 10ft jon boats vary by an even greater margin than those that are new. A quick search of online marketplaces will find prices as low as $100 and as high as $750. If you are able to pick up a still functional jon boat for a bargain price it may be worth it, even if you need to invest additional money in minor repairs or rehabilitation.
However, at $750 the higher priced used boats are most likely not worth the minor saving, or in some cases even larger price tag, verse a brand-new boat. Of course, you will need to take into account any additional accessories that may be included in the price of the used boat, especially if it includes a motor.
For comparison, here are two examples of brand new jon boats on both the low and high end of the purchasing range:
Prices of New Low-End and High-End 10ft Jon Boats
Alumacraft 10ft. Jon Boat
At $550 (new), this basic design offers a simple flat-bottom, marine aluminum-alloy hull and basic bench style seating but is suitable enough to provide comfortable, convenient access to your favorite small water. Despite the low-end price tag you will still enjoy many sought after features including pressed-chine, fully enclosed transom with welded corners and both bow & stern carry handles. These features will add increased stability, increased durability and ease of transportation/ loading & unloading.
LENGTH: 10ft
HEIGHT: 17”
WIDTH: 2’8”
WEIGHT: 95 lbs.
CAPACITY: 325 lbs. / 2 people
MAX. HP: 3 HP
PRICE: $550
G3 1036
G3 is a leader in providing top end, quality jon boats in a wide range of sizes & packages with many accessories available for personalization. All G3s include a rugged single piece hull constructed of .100 gauge marine grade aluminum. Also included are one-piece heat-tempted extruded ribs, non-skid decks, reinforced corners & transom braces, stamped-in keel & bow eyes and an enamel desert brown finish. Although still limited by overall size the 1036 offers many of the features found in G3’s larger models and provide increased stability & maneuverability as well as long term survivability.
LENGTH: 10ft.
HEIGHT: 18” (16” at transom)
WIDTH: 52”
WEIGHT: 100 lbs.
CAPACITY: 375 lbs. / 2 people
MAX HP: 5 HP
PRICE: $879
How much does a 12ft jon boat cost?
The initial purchase price of a 12ft. jon boat is not much more than the 10ft. models, with costs ranging from $600-$1,000. In fact, our reviews of weight, weight capacity and maximum horsepower will reveal ranges similar to or only slightly higher than the 10ft. models.
This begs the question why select a 12ft. model to begin with? The answer is the difference those 2ft offer in terms of overall versatility and comfort. Although you will still be limited to 2 people you will enjoy a little bit more elbow room and space for your gear.
The extra 2ft. will also make the boat a little bit more maneuverability and provide the stability need to venture out of the pond. Although still not suitable for large, open water these slightly larger models will allow you to cross calm rivers or safely face some increased chop.
One disadvantage associated with the increased size is transportation, it is unlikely that you will be able to get away with not having a trailer. However, if you are looking for a small, inexpensive boat to keep at your cabin or tied to shore at your favorite fishing hole this may not be an issue.
12ft Jon Boat: New vs. Used Cost
The same online marketplaces referenced previously revealed the price range for 12ft. jon boats is even greater than expected, with models available for as little as $500 or as high as $1500. As with the 10ft. models the savings may not be great enough to justify purchasing used rather than new.
However, the question of included accessories becomes a larger concern as well. Most of the higher priced used 12ft. jon boats included motors or trailer, both of which are costly investments you would eventually be making even when buying new. If the total cost of the used package is low enough your savings can be significant.
For comparison, here are two examples of new 12ft jon boats on the low and high price range if you bought them new:
Prices of New Low-End and High-End 12ft Jon Boats
Pelican Intruder 12
The Intruder 12 is not your typical jon boat. Although it offers the same flat-bottom, stable design it is one of the only models not constructed of aluminum. Pelican utilizes RAM-X, a multi-layered composite material specifically selected for its improved resistance to heavy impact, abrasions and dents. Also included are 2 bench seats, 4 vertical rod holders, built-in motor mount, oarlock receptacles and carry handles. Each of these features are molded into the RAM-X hull for longer lasting hassle-free life, although it does eliminate the ability to move either for personalization or to allow installation of aftermarket accessories.
LENGTH: 12ft.
HEIGHT: 16.8”
WIDTH: 48”
WEIGHT: 127 lbs.
CAPACITY: 2 people / 420 lbs.
MAX. HP: 6 HP
PRICE: $599
G3 1236
Once again, we have a G3 model, the 1236, topping the list in this category. The 1236 is identical to the 1036 in every aspect other than of course size. You will still enjoy the single piece hull construction, one-piece heat-tempted extruded ribs (for added stability), non-skid decks, reinforced corners & transom braces, stamped keel & bow eyes as well as the eye-catching desert brown finish. The 1236 also offers the highest maximum horsepower rating for this class at 10hp.
LENGTH: 11’11”
HEIGHT: 18” (16” at transom)
WIDTH: 56”
WEIGHT: 144 lbs.
CAPACITY: 2 people / 470 lbs.
MAX HP: 10 HP
PRICE: $1,000
How much does a 14ft jon boat cost?
Most 14ft jon boats cost between $850-1,200. which is similar to the 12ft models. More expensive packages may also be available and will include trailer, engine and sometimes basic safety equipment.
The 14ft jon boat is the best, and worst, of two worlds. The extra 2-4 feet allow you to carry additional friends and more cargo, increases the maximum horsepower and provides greater stability for use on larger open water. However, you will definitely need a trailer, and this means additional investment as does the larger motor. But you will still not be able to run offshore or too far from protected areas.
While the smaller models were a perfect means of introduction to the jon boat world, the 14 ft. jon boat leaves you on the verge of one world, that where you have a jon boat that meets almost all your needs, and one where your jon boat is better than smaller options but still lacking.
The only real reason to upgrade to a 14ft jon boat and not go to the next level and get a 16ft model is your ability to transport it, if you have a smaller car with limited towing capacity this may be your only option (we spent hours researching the towing capacities of popular cars, SUV’s, and trucks and compared them to the weights of 30+ jon boats to produce this guide for towing jon boats with cars if you don’t have access to a larger vehicle).
For comparison, here are a couple examples of new 14ft jon boats on the low and high-end price ranges.
14ft Jon Boat: New vs. Used Cost
The majority of used 14ft jon boats will be as high or higher in price than the top end new boats in the same class. While this may appear odd and seems to offer little in the way of savings it is important to remember that almost all used models will include at least a trailer, and most an engine as well. In fact, buying a boat this size without a trailer will lead to the question “how will you get it home”. This is not something you can slide into a pickup bed or lift onto the roof rack of your SUV.
Prices of New Low-End and High-End 14ft Jon Boats
Tracker Topper 1436
The Topper 1436 is one of Tracker’s entry level jon boats and its only 14 ft. model (they do offer a similar 15ft model, and odd ball in the jon boat field). It boasts a standard flat-bottom design and relies on a riveted .052 gauge marine aluminum alloy hull for its main stability.
The hull is reinforced with pressed-in longitudinal corrugation and corner braces at the transom. Features include fore and aft bench seating for 3, each of which are equipped with underseat foam flotation to assist with recovery should it capsize.
The entire boat is finished in a hunter green powder-coating to provide a subtle profile when hunting or fishing and to protect against corrosion. Despite its name, it is unlikely the 1436 will be transported atop anything except maybe upside down on a large boat. The optional trailer is a must unless you have a larger multi-purpose trailer which could still be used to move a boat of this size.
LENGTH: 13’10”
HEIGHT: 15’5”
WIDTH: 4’5”
WEIGHT: 162 lbs.
CAPACITY: 2 persons / 345 lbs. /580 lbs. total gear
MAX. HP: 15 HP
PRICE: $675
G3 1448LW
As you may have expected the leader in the 14 ft. jon boat class is once again G3, this time the 1448LW. As was the case with the 1036 and 1236 this G3 offering is a slightly bigger carbon copy of the others, although it is also wider than expected. The same single piece design, same layout and familiar desert brown finish – something I find unusual in a jon boat but eye catching none the less.
The 1448LW is also a perfect example of the grey area owners of jon boats of this size find themselves in – a boat this is too large to be car topped and a bit too small for unrestricted open water use. Although the 1436 is far more capable of large water use than many models, even the same G3s, it is still not something you want to find yourself in offshore or when the weather takes a turn for the worse. At 233lbs a trailer is a must, even if it did fit in the bed of a truck it would be difficult to manipulate when the time came.
HEIGHT: 13’11”
HEIGHT: 21” (18” at transom)
WIDTH: 70”
CAPACITY: 4 persons /820 lbs.
MAX HP: 25 HP
PRICE: $1,295
How Much Does a 16ft Jon Boat Cost?
When you make the jump to the 16ft jon boat you cross a line, one which truly makes a difference in how you boat will perform and how you will be able to utilize it. Not only do you enjoy an increased weight capacity, maximum HP and overall size, you will also have new design features available that will place these jon boats in a class distinguished by more than size.
The first difference you will notice is the bow. Although as jon boats these are still primarily flat-bottom designs many will now incorporate the modified-v bow feature. This feature alone will greatly increase the boat’s ability to cut through the water and even waves for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Many will also include a keel, less pronounced than other boat styles but there none the less. Adding a keel will improve handling, especially when at high speed or during a turn. With a 16ft. jon boat you can finally leave the pond, small lakes and secluded back bay behind and expand your adventure areas.
Another feature that you will start to see, and one that will be more appreciated once on the water than in the showroom, is storage space. In smaller designs storage was limited to a tiny under the bow area or after market cabinets. Due to the limited available space even the addition of after market storage was limited to a cooler, tackle box and maybe a bag or two unless you were willing to give up passenger space.
At 16ft manufacturers start adding storage as a standard feature including lockable compartments in the bow & under the seats. You can also find models that include live wells and lockers specially designed to protect your fishing rods.
Obviously, due to the increased size and associated weight there will be no way around purchasing a trailer. Luckily most manufacturers offer packages that include not only a properly sized trailer but also a motor. You may also find that these boat/trailer combinations can not be towed by smaller vehicles, something you will need to consider prior to your purchase.
Of course, these improvements do come at a cost. A 16ft jon boat will average approximately $3000. As already stated, this does not include the trailer or motor. There is quite a bit of variation in price from one model to another though, with low end being around $2100 and top price being almost $3400, so you should be able to find something in your personal range.
16ft Jon Boat: New vs. Used Cost
Just as hitting the 16ft mark changes the options, design and handling available it also changes what you will encounter when it comes to used boats vs. new ones. If you are near a popular fishing & boating area you should have no problem finding plenty of used 16ft and larger jon boats for sale. The selection is generally a mix of newer models and older well keep designs, often for sale because the owner has upgraded even larger, so price ranges will vary greatly.
Most used 16ft jon boats will, by necessity, include both the trailer and motor, and probably some if not all of the required safety gear, so even if you pay the same you would for a new boat you can potentially save thousands in the end.
Here are a few prices for new 16ft jon boats. Use these as a reference point if you are searching the used marketplace.
Prices of New Low-End and High-End 16ft Jon Boats
Lowe Boats L1648 Jon
Lowe Boats is a leader in producing high quality economic boats including the L1648 Jon. Like all Lowe Boats the L1648 Jon is designed to provide an economical means of getting the best boat that your money can buy, without adding unnecessary features that drive the price up. This means that you get a basic jon boat with just enough features to make it stand out. Each boat includes standard features such as two bench seats, a center seat live well / storage area, room for up to 4 passengers and a large bow deck.
In order to allow you to achieve maximum stability and maneuverability Lowe Boats has also included a .072 gauge hull constructed from marine grade aluminum alloy, 9 pressed in ribs, formed-in spray rails and formed transom corner caps. Additional features include a stainless-steel bow eye, recessed oar locks, welded transducer bracket, reinforced motor mount and transom drain plug.
HEIGHT: 15’ 8,5”
HEIGHT: 21” (15” at transom)
WIDTH: 70”
CAPACITY: 4 persons / 555 lbs. (persons), 1014 lbs. (total)
MAX HP: 35 HP
PRICE: $2,098
Grizzly 1648 Jon
Just as the namesake king of bears the Grizzly 1648 by Tracker is the king of 16ft. jon boats. From a distance the Grizzly appears to be just another jon boat; flat-bottom, slight rise in the modified-v bow and a dark green powder coat finish. But once you get closed you will see this boat is anything but standard.
This boat is built to last and be comfortable at the same time. There is no wood or plastic anywhere, this is 100% aluminum construction. The hull itself is constructed of .100 5052 aluminum alloy. A stringer system and transom is welded directly to the hull and foam-filled interior side walls (also welded in) provide additional stability and result in a much quieter ride as well. The extra-large bow deck provides not only lockable storage but also a flush mounted pedestal seat base. A second pedestal seat base in located in the rear bench seat as well.
HEIGHT: 16’ 1”
HEIGHT: 21”
WIDTH: 6’
CAPACITY: 4 persons / 555 lbs. (persons), 1055 lbs. (total)
MAX HP: 40 HP
PRICE: $3,339
How Much Does an 18ft Jon Boat Cost?
Add two more feet to your boat search and you cross another line. Rarely will you find jon boats of this size sold as single hull only units, instead you will be shopping for packages. These ready to use package will come with a big jump is purchase price, with the average being between $13-15K, but includes a trailer, motor and much of the other equipment needed to drive from the dealer to the water and then your favorite hunting or fishing hole.
Many manufacturers will offer the ability to build your own boat, starting with a standard hull and layout that can be personalized by adding the features and placement that best suits your needs. In most cases this will include a center console, hydraulic steering, permanent running lights, lockable storage live wells and even coolers.
Regardless of how you outfit your 18ft jon boat you will find these to be the work horses of the jon boat family. At this length you have nearly reached the maximum possible within the design. This means you will have a large, stable platform suitable for hunting, fishing, crabbing and even commercial applications. Of course, you can also use it to simply take your family or friends for an exciting ride. The increased weight and modified hulls will allow for safe use one almost any waterway including near shore or bay applications.
18ft Jon Boat: New vs. Used Cost
As with the 16ft models the used market is wide open when it comes to 18ft jon boats. Again, prices will vary greatly and will depends on the trailer, motor and accessories that are included. One of the ways to save big when it comes to 18ft jon boats is by not targeting those looking to upgrade, but instead looking for the owner who realized 18ft is more than they need. After all, a boat this size is not something you can easily tow with the family sedan or launch at the local panfish pond. Another advantage of buying a use larger jon boat is that you can often get one with a wide range of after market accessories that would cost far more if purchased separately.
Here are two examples of new 18ft jon boat packages that you can use as a baseline if you’re looking through the used marketplace trying to decide on what prices seem reasonable.
Prices of New Low-End and High-End 18ft Jon Boats
Grizzly 1860 CC Sportsman
The 1860 CC Sportsman package is designed to offer not only a top quality jon boat but also many of the accessories and features needed to make it your dream fishing boat, although it is aimed more at bow anglers than those utilizing traditional gear.
In addition to the standard .1000 5052 marine grade aluminum alloy hull, .190-gauge reinforced floor area, rock-solid welded transom, stringer & deck you will also enjoy a wide range of extras other boats makes sell separately. The 12V 55 lb Minn Kota foot-controlled trolling motor is mounted at the bow. Main power is supplied by a 40 HP ELPT FourStroke and the entire unit sits atop a heavy duty custom fit galvanized trailer. But it does not end there. The removable front mounted bow fishing deck, 40000-lumen bow lights & generator, double duty arrow/drink holder and center console controls make this a true fishing machine.
HEIGHT: 19’ 6”
HEIGHT: 21”
WEIGHT: 1400 lbs. / 2555 lbs. total package
WIDTH: 7’
CAPACITY: 4 persons / 575 lbs. (persons), 1300 lbs. (total)
MAX HP: 90 HP
PRICE: $25,340 (package)
G3 Gator Tough 18 CCJ DLX (Jet Tunnel Hull)
The Gator 18 CCL DLX is, as the name implies, a deluxe top of the line jon boat. You are no longer receiving a standard green, brown or camouflage design. The 18 CCJ DLX .100 gauge welded marine grade aluminum alloy hull is decorated with a high-gloss color paint finish complete with custom graphics. The metal bench seats of old, that might have been covered by a thin cloth cushion have been replaced by a center pedestal seat (for the operator), two extra thick cushions in the rear and both fore & aft removable pedestal seats for fishing.
But the amenities do not stop with the looks, function is a top feature as well. The operator’s seat conceals 19 gallon live well while the rear pedestal seat lifts to allow easy access to the oil tank and bilge area. Additional lockable, waterproof storage is available under the extra-large bow deck and snap in rod storage is mounted to the interior walls. However, the most impressive feature is the jet tunnel hull. This unique feature forces water through a tunnel in the hull directly to the outdrive, which allows you to mount the jet outdrive shallower without losing maneuverability or control. Perfect for accessing those hidden shallow water fishing spots.
HEIGHT: 18’ 1”
HEIGHT: 29”
WIDTH: 80”
WEIGHT: 850 lbs. / 1710 lbs.
CAPACITY: 6 persons / 1500 lbs. (total)
MAX HP: 115 HP (80J)
PRICE: $29,225 (package)
What additional costs can you expect?
As mentioned several times the purchase price of the boat is not the only cost associated with buying a jon boat. Most of the smaller designs will include ONLY the boat. This means you will be responsible for additional costs associated with a trailer (if needed), motor, safety gear (here’s our handy list of required and highly recommended safety gear), and registration. While the large packages include a trailer and motor, and sometimes a secondary electric trolling motor, you will still need to save money to cover required safety equipment and registration of both the boat and trailer.
Although requirements and cost will vary based on the size of the jon boat, and in come cases the state where it will be used, lets take a look at what you can expect to need:
- Trailer – smaller jon boats may be transported in a pickup truck or even on a roof rack but medium & larger boats will need a single axle trailer. Check with the manufacturer for specific trailing requirements and with local jurisdiction for registration requirements and cost.
- Motor – smaller jon boats can be rowed but most owners will elect to install a motor regardless of the jon boat’s size. An electric trolling motor is a cost saving option for boats less than 16ft, however, this will limit run time and overall performance. In most cases you will need a gasoline powered outboard between 3-115hp, depending on the overall size and weight of the boat. Check with the manufacturer to determine motor limitations.
- Registration and titling – ALL motorboats are required to be registered in the state of principle use and costs are usually calculated by size with larger boats costing more. Some states also require titling, which will carry an additional cost. While titles are valid for as long as you own the boat registration must be renewed every 2 or 3 years depending on which state it is registered in.
- Safety equipment – a standard list of required safety equipment includes PFDs, navigation lights, fire suppression systems and horn or sound producing device. Again, while some of these items may be included in large jon boat packages those who select a smaller model will need to purchase everything prior to hitting the water. Check with local authorities to determine exactly what safety equipment you will need. (If you want a head start, here’s our list of safety equipment mandated by just about every state, along with some of our favorite recommendations)
- Routine maintenance – a basic jon boat will not require a great deal of routine maintenance, even winterization will be limited to removing the trolling motor and battery (here’s our complete guide to winterizing your jon boat and trailer). Of course larger jon boats will need regular maintenance and so will the trailer.
Conclusion
Hopefully we have been able to provide a better answer to the question “how much will a jon boat cost” than “it depends”. As you can see it is a far more complex question, and detailed answer, than can be answered with a blanket statement. It is also impossible to answer all your questions and address all possible variations in a single article. However, we hope that we have provided enough information to get you started in making an informed purchase as you shop for your next jon boat.
