Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

[davidshumate]

In the not so distant future (hopefully), I hope to buy a 14ft-16ft jon boat. In the past, my fishing buddy and I, were no stranger to taking a 14 footer out on the Ohio River. However, I'm a litte older and now have children. Safety is now more of a concern. Is this the correct size for a river the size of the Ohio? An outing on the river would consist of my son (70lbs) and daughter (90lbs) and myself (212lbs). Also, what size outboard do you recommend for a 14ft? A 16ft? Bear in mind, that cost is an issue. The boat would be used for catfishing and bass fishing. Any advice is appreciated.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

i would go for a semi v hull, with higher gunnell than a jon boat. max hp the boat is rated for. you need bigger than a jon boat.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

I'm with TD. Is there barge traffic on that stretch of the Ohio? If so, then I wouldn't take a typical jon boat out with kids in it. They're just too short on the freeboard, and barge wakes can be pretty big.

 

[mickjetblue]

Re: Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

I have an 1848 jon boat, and will only take it on the river when conditions are mild.
I echo the other guys, and vote for a v hull boat for what you want to do.
I got a Bayliner for that, but plenty of aluminums will also do fine. Good luck!

 

[BigB9000]

Re: Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

I had a 15 V-hull aluminum bearing a 20hp johnson. boat was rated for a 35hp.

So the thing was insanley fast for what it was. it was unsafe af half throttle, and i never dared to full throttle it. handheald GPS said we were doing 26 upriver (river flows at 6mph ish?) you hit a bump and it would throw you off your seat.

little boats need little engines in my opinion

 

[The-Machinist]

Re: Correct Size Of Jon Boat/Outboard For River?

If your dead set on a jon-boat I would suggest looking for an older polarkraft.
I have a 75ish 16 footer and it has an easy 6" of freeboard over my other jon, even though the sides are only about 4 inches taller. For me, I sure feel a lot safer in the polarkraft when the going gets rough.