Re: Jon Boats
Looking to find an aluminum flat bottom that can handle a lot of weight. I will be converting the boat into a barge for my dock business. Any and all help is appreciated.
I'd suggest looking at custom boat manufacturers. I know there are a few in Louisiana and along the big rivers (Mississippi/Ohio). They can build exactly what you want in plate aluminum, and usually not much more expensive than a typical recreational boat. You can get things like spud bars or access ports built into the hull. For example, check with clarkboats in Bellevue, IA (they have a website). O'quawka is another custom builder that makes really nice boats, but their price is significantly higher (tax write-off for your business?).
If you don't go custom, next best bet is probably SeaArk. They have a commercial (not recreational) line that is built a little heavier with no frills.
25'x8.5' flat-bottom would carry the weight you require. If needed, a 26x12 would carry quite a bit more, but would be a little tougher to trailer (might need overwidth permit in most states).
