Flat Bottom vs V Hull Jon Boats: Pros & Cons You Should Know

When it comes to choosing a Jon boat, one of the key decisions that many people face is deciding between flat bottom vs V hull Jon boats. Depending on the situation, which one is right for you?

Flat-bottom Jon boats have low drafts and are much more stable in waters less than five feet deep. V-hull Jon boats are designed to handle slightly rough waters and are much faster.

Whether you choose a flat bottom or V-hull, it will have various pros and cons. After reading, you can see which Jon boat is right for your situation.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Deadrise
• What is a Flat Bottom Jon Boat?
  • Pros of Flat Bottom Jon Boats
  • Cons of Flat Bottom Jon Boats
• What Are V-Hull Jon Boats?
  • Pros of V-Hull Jon Boats
  • Cons of V-Hull Jon Boats
• What Jon Boat Type is Best for You?

Understanding Deadrise

Deadrise is the angle that separates the bottom of the hull and its horizontal plane. This is measured in degrees and each boat type has its own deadrise category.

The more a boat has deadrise, the more it is able to cut through the water. However, the higher the deadrise angle, the less stable it is at slow speeds or even resting. 

Related: Carolina Skiff Vs Jon Boat: Small Boat Comparison.

What is a Flat Bottom Jon Boat?

A flat bottom Jon boat is just like it sounds It is a type of boat that features a flat, rectangular-shaped hull. This type of hull design provides a number of benefits, including a high degree of stability and a shallow draft. 

The deadrise on a flat bottom Jon boat is typically 10 degrees or sometimes less. For this reason, flat-bottom Jon boats are the go-to boating option in shallow waters such as:

• Rivers

• Streams

• Lakes

They are well-suited for a variety of activities, including fishing, hunting, and general recreation.

Since they have great stability and are not easily disturbed by water movement, most fishermen love this boat type.

Pros of Flat Bottom Jon Boats

Flat-bottom Jon boats showcase a range of pros that are too good to pass up in shallow waters. These include:

• Shallow draft: Thanks to its design, you can safely navigate some of the shallowest bodies of water in a flat bottoms Jon boat.

These typically range from six inches to two feet but do not forget about your lower unit with a motor.

• Stability: Hunting and fishing require precision and patience, so these boats help you remain stable. You can safely move around without risking the boat tipping over with every little movement.

• Versatility: Another advantage of flat-bottom Jon boats is their versatility. Because they are well-suited for use in shallow waters, they can be used for a variety of activities, including fishing, hunting, and general recreation.

• Cost: These boats are generally inexpensive depending on the brand and material. They can range from a few hundred dollars and up. Additionally, you can get an even better deal if you buy them in various states!

Cons of Flat Bottom Jon Boats

A handful of negatives come with flat-bottom Jon boats. These include:

• Speed: One of the main drawbacks of flat-bottom Jon boats is their lack of speed. Due to their design, it prevents them from cutting through the water as a V-hull would.

This can be a disadvantage if you need to cover a lot of water quickly or fish in choppy waters.

• Comfort: Another disadvantage of flat-bottom Jon boats is their lack of comfort. Because they have low sides, these boats can be less comfortable to ride in than other types of boats.

• Not as safe: When used on open waters or in rough conditions, you will likely be wet. This could potentially lead to you capsizing your boat.

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What Are V-Hull Jon Boats?

V-hull Jon boats have a pointed or “V-shaped” bottom that helps the boat cut through the water more efficiently.

These boats are typically made of fiberglass and are slightly heavier than flat-bottom Jon boats.

The deadrise on these varies since it depends on what V-hull is chosen. A deep V-hull has a deadrise of 20 degrees or more, whereas a modified V-hull is somewhere between 10 and 20 degrees.

Deep V-hull Jon boats have the ability to take on rougher waters, but modified V-hulls will be tested in those environments with the same water-cutting capability. 

V-hull Jon boats are known for their speed and ability to handle choppy waters, making them a popular choice among boaters who enjoy water sports.

As a result of their design, these boats are commonly used for fishing, hunting, and other activities in shallow water.

Pros of V-Hull Jon Boats

There are several advantages to using a V-hull Jon boat. No matter your experience on the water, these advantages include:

• Shallow draft: V-hull boats have a somewhat deeper draft, which allows them to navigate in more open bodies of water.

• Maneuverability: V-hull boats are generally more maneuverable than other types of boats, which can be useful in tight spaces or when navigating through narrow channels.

• Versatility: V-hull boats are versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities, including fishing, hunting, sightseeing, and exploring.

• Durability: V-hull boats are typically made of tough, durable materials like aluminum, which makes them resistant to damage and able to withstand rough use.

• Affordability: V-hull boats are generally less expensive than other types of boats, which makes them a good option for those on a budget.

Cons of V-Hull Jon Boats

There are several disadvantages to using a V-hull Jon boat. These typically involve:

• Limited stability: V-hull boats are generally less stable when they are at slow speeds. They are known for moving about when not in use.

• Limited cargo capacity: V-hull boats have limited cargo capacity based on their hull design. This makes them less suitable for hauling large loads.

• Reduced speed: V-hull boats are not as efficient as other hull designs that want to cruise on the water. They are meant for cutting through the water.

• Increased difficulty in steering: V-hull boats can be more difficult to steer than other types of boats, especially at low speeds, which can be frustrating for inexperienced boaters.

• Increased susceptibility to wind and waves: Because of their draft and limited stability, V-hull boats are more susceptible to wind and wave action than other types of boats.

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What Jon Boat Type is Best for You?

V-hull and flat-bottom Jon boats each provide pros and cons that you should consider. After reviewing these pros and cons, it is best to compare it with your situation.

Fishing is a perfect example that sets these two apart, as both boats are designed to be used either inland or on open waters. 

V-hull Jon boat may be the better option if the water is moving fast or in somewhat windy conditions. If you plan to use the boat in shallow or weed-filled waters, a flat-bottom Jon boat may be a better choice.