1448 Modified Jon Boat

[crowsfoot]

Hey All,

I'm looking for some opions here on a modified V Jon Boat. Does anyone have any experience with these boats? I will be using it mostly to fish little lakes and back streams as well as ducking hunting in the fall, Break some thin ice. Are these boats worth the extra cost over a regular Jon? What would you recommend for motor size on the 1448 Mod V? Wouls a 9.9 be ok? That is the size I wish to purchase. Also Manufacture that you would recommend.

I would like some good advice, if you can offer it.
Thanks.

Crowsfoot

 

[JEBar]

Re: 1448 Modified Jon Boat

I've had one of each and while they have many similarities, they do have some fundamental differences .... in my mind, when you got to the "Break some thin ice" part you moved to where the modified V hull with the thicker the aluminum the better could be a more appropriate choice .... here again, while a 9.9 might be OK, I'd go with the largest hp the boat could handle

Jim

 

[oldman570]

Re: 1448 Modified Jon Boat

I bought a 1448 Starcraft mod V in 1984 and would not trade it for some of the newer ones made today. I use it on the Mississippi river and severat Large lakes here in the midwest. I did modify it some and added a alummium floor with nonskid paint on it along with a 1/4" rough tread deck plate over the very front seat area. I now have a Merc 25hp tiller electric start motor on it and it will run 27 MPH by GPS with me and another person and total gear that would be close to 700 LBS with the battery, gas 6GAL. and everything included. It will run out at 32 MPH with just me and my gear witch weights around 350 LBS. including fuel and battery. I use mine most all year round fishing, hunting, and trapping and have to say it has been just what I needed. It will turn around in the smaller streams and go into some of the shallower water with out to much trouble. If you want a boat that can take a beatting and get the job done then it will fit the bill. I would go with atleast a 20hp motor tho as you will soon want one if you go with a smaller HP motor. I still would also put a floor in it along with insulation board bettwen the stringers to help keep any rivets or welds intact. I have an 18' bass boat that just sets in the shed most of the time cause I like my 1448 much better.
Oldman570