Adding A Livewell To Your Jon Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to install a livewell in a jon boat, there are a few options to consider. Some people choose to use a cooler with a pump attached to the bottom, which can be placed inside the boat or in the back of a truck. Others opt for a more permanent solution, such as building a livewell out of plywood covered in fiberglass mat and resin, or using a heavy-duty tote from a hardware store, plumbed and decked over. It's important to consider the weight distribution and handling of the boat when adding a livewell, especially if an outboard motor is involved. Additionally, factors like aeration, drainage, and weight should be taken into account when deciding on the placement and type of livewell that best suits your needs.

Using a cooler and building a frame

If you're looking to put a livewell in your Jon boat, one option is to use a cooler and build a frame around it. This can be a great way to add a livewell to your boat without having to permanently modify the boat's structure. Here's a guide on how to do it:

Planning

Before you start, it's important to consider the placement of your livewell. Choose a location that is easily accessible and won't affect the balance and handling of your boat. It's also a good idea to take the boat out and fill the cooler with water to see how it affects the boat's stability.

Materials

For this project, you will need a cooler, a bilge pump, hoses, plumbing fittings, a frame-building material (such as wood or aluminium), and basic tools for cutting and assembling the frame. You may also want to consider adding a spray bar, a standpipe, and a drain plug to your livewell for better functionality.

Building the Frame

Start by measuring the dimensions of your cooler and planning the size and shape of your frame. The frame should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the cooler and any additional plumbing or wiring. Cut the frame material to size and assemble it around the cooler, making sure to allow for access to the cooler lid and any pumps or hoses.

Installing the Cooler

Place the cooler inside the frame and secure it in place. Make sure the cooler is level and won't shift or move during boat operation. Connect the bilge pump and hoses according to your desired configuration, following the instructions provided with your pump. Be sure to include a fuse in your wiring for safety.

Testing and Finishing

Once your livewell is installed, test it thoroughly to ensure it functions as expected. Pay attention to water flow, drainage, and aeration, making adjustments as needed. Finally, finish your livewell by adding any desired accessories, such as a lid or cover, and you're ready to hit the water!

Remember to consider the weight and placement of your livewell to ensure your boat remains stable and handles well. With careful planning and execution, you can enjoy the benefits of a livewell without permanently altering your Jon boat.

Installing a permanent bait well

To install a permanent bait well in a Jon boat, you will need to consider the following steps and factors:

Planning and Design:

First, decide on the location for your bait well. Consider the available space in your Jon boat and choose a location that is accessible and does not interfere with other components. Some popular options include installing it in the middle bench, cross seats, or extending the front deck to accommodate the bait well.

Materials and Supplies:

You will need a suitable container for the bait well. Some common options include using a cooler, a heavy-duty tote, a trash barrel, or even a custom-built container made from materials like plywood and fiberglass. Additionally, you will need a pump, hoses, fittings, and other plumbing components to facilitate water circulation and drainage.

Installation Process:

• Measure and mark the desired location for the bait well, ensuring it is level and properly aligned.
• Cut out the necessary space in the boat's structure to accommodate the bait well container.
• Install the container securely, ensuring it is watertight and well-sealed to prevent leaks.
• Set up the pump and plumbing system according to your design. This may include through-hull fittings, intake and discharge hoses, spray bars for aeration, and valves for controlling water flow.
• Ensure that you have proper drainage and aeration systems in place to maintain a healthy environment for the bait.

Testing and Maintenance:

• Once installed, test the bait well by filling it with water and checking for any leaks or issues with the plumbing.
• Regularly maintain the bait well by cleaning it and ensuring that all components are in good working order.

Remember to consider the weight distribution and stability of your Jon boat after installing the permanent bait well. It is important to test the boat's handling and ensure it sits at the correct level in the water.

Using a portable livewell

Choose the Right Portable Livewell

First, you need to select a suitable portable livewell for your jon boat. There are various options available, including coolers, heavy-duty totes, and even trash barrels. Consider the size and capacity that best suits your needs. For example, a 30-gallon trash barrel can be used as a livewell and filled with raw water washdown. Alternatively, you can opt for a smaller option, such as a cooler or a tote, which can be easily transported and stored.

Install the Livewell Pump

Once you've chosen your livewell container, you'll need to install a livewell pump to ensure proper water circulation and aeration. You can find livewell pump kits online or at marine supply stores. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to properly install the pump, ensuring a secure and watertight connection. The pump will help keep your catch or bait fresh by providing a constant flow of water and maintaining the right temperature.

Secure the Livewell in Your Jon Boat

Now, it's time to secure your portable livewell in your jon boat. Choose a location that is easily accessible and doesn't interfere with your fishing activities. You can place it under the deck, using a hatch lid to access it, or you might consider extending your front deck and installing the livewell between the second and third benches, as some boat owners have done. Make sure the livewell is securely fastened to the boat to prevent it from moving or tipping over during your voyage.

Maintain and Care for Your Portable Livewell

Regular maintenance and care of your portable livewell are essential to ensure its longevity. Clean and disinfect the livewell after each use, following the manufacturer's instructions. Proper maintenance will help prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain the overall hygiene of your livewell. Additionally, remember to store your livewell in a cool, dry place when not in use to avoid the growth of mould or mildew.

Advantages of a Portable Livewell

One of the significant advantages of using a portable livewell is the flexibility it offers. You can easily remove it when not needed, such as when you're using your jon boat for activities other than fishing. Additionally, portable livewells are generally more affordable than built-in options, making them a cost-effective choice. They are also versatile, as you can use them in various boats or even for bank fishing, as some fishers have mentioned.

Installing a pump to drain, fill, and circulate water

To install a pump to drain, fill, and circulate water in a livewell, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, determine the location of your livewell. If you are installing a new livewell, choose an area in your jon boat that is easily accessible and does not obstruct other features. Ensure that the livewell is securely installed and sealed to prevent leaks.

Next, you will need to install a pump. You can choose between a manual or automatic pump, depending on your preference and budget. The pump should be placed near the livewell for easy access and connected to a power source if it is an automatic model.

Now, you will need to connect the pump to the livewell using hoses. Measure the distance between the pump and the livewell to ensure you have enough hose length. The hose should be secured with hose clamps to prevent leaks. The pump should draw water from an intake near the bottom of the boat, and discharge it through a nozzle or spray bar at the top of the livewell.

Additionally, you will need to install an overflow outlet to prevent the livewell from overfilling. This can be located on the side of the boat, above the waterline. A valve or standpipe can also be installed to control the water level in the livewell.

Finally, test the system by turning on the pump and ensuring that water is drawn into the livewell and discharged through the overflow outlet. Adjust the valves or standpipe as needed to control the water level and circulation.

Remember to consult with boating forums and experts for specific recommendations and to address any issues that may arise during the installation process.

Using a bilge pump inside the livewell

Firstly, it's important to understand the components of your livewell system. Your boat likely has a sealed livewell container with a drain plug at the bottom. There should also be a pump and hose system that brings water into the livewell. This pump is usually located on the port side of the hull, above the waterline. The livewell may also have an overflow fitting, which is typically located on the side of the boat, to prevent the tank from overflowing.

Now, when it comes to using a bilge pump inside the livewell, you can follow these steps:

• Ensure you have a suitable bilge pump that can be used for this purpose. It should be a submersible pump with a rating that matches your livewell's requirements, such as a 500 GPH pump.
• Install the bilge pump inside the livewell. You can use cable ties or a bracket to secure the pump in place, ensuring it doesn't move around.
• Connect the bilge pump to a hose or piping system. This hose will be used to bring water into the livewell and also to circulate water within the livewell to keep it aerated.
• To fill the livewell, you can either use a separate pump or the same bilge pump. If using the bilge pump, drop it overboard, ensuring it's submerged, and turn it on to start pumping water into the livewell.
• Once the livewell is filled, you can put the pump back inside the livewell and turn it on to circulate the water. This will help keep the water oxygenated and suitable for any bait or catch you plan to keep in the livewell.
• To drain the livewell, you can use the drain plug at the bottom of the container. Alternatively, if you have an overflow fitting, you can simply remove the plug and let the water drain out through the fitting.

It's important to note that you should always ensure the bilge pump is secured properly inside the livewell to avoid any damage or accidental flooding. Additionally, regular maintenance of the pump and hoses is crucial to prevent clogs or other issues.

By following these instructions, you can effectively use a bilge pump inside your livewell to maintain a steady water supply and keep your catch or bait healthy.

Frequently asked questions