Jon Boat Living: Tips For Comfortable, Fun Adventures

If you're looking to install a livewell in your Jon boat, you'll need to consider a few things. Firstly, you'll need to decide on the type of livewell you want to use, such as a cooler, a heavy-duty tote, or a custom-built livewell. You'll also need to think about the location of the livewell, ensuring it doesn't affect the boat's stability. The next step is to plan the plumbing and wiring, including the type of pump you'll use to fill, drain, and aerate the livewell. You can choose between using a single bilge pump for all functions or separate pumps for each task. Don't forget to include a drain line and consider using a one-way valve to prevent water from flowing back into the livewell. Lastly, you'll need to purchase the necessary parts, such as pumps, hoses, fittings, and switches, before installing them in your Jon boat.

Using a cooler to build a live well

Using a cooler to build a livewell in your Jon boat is a great option, as it's a simple and effective way to keep your catch fresh. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cooler

Select a cooler that is the appropriate size and shape to fit in your Jon boat. It should be large enough to hold your catch but not take up too much space in the boat. Make sure the cooler has a drain plug, as this will be important for filling and emptying the livewell.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooler

Clean the cooler thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or odours. Upgrade the hinges if needed to ensure a tight seal. You may also want to consider adding an aerator to the cooler to help keep the water oxygenated and your catch healthy.

Step 3: Install the Cooler in Your Boat

Choose a location for the cooler in your Jon boat. It should be easily accessible and close to where you'll be fishing. You can secure the cooler in place using straps, bungee cords, or by building a custom enclosure.

Step 4: Plumb the Livewell

This step may vary depending on your specific setup, but you'll generally need to connect the cooler to a water source and a pump. You can use a livewell kit, which typically includes a pump, tubing, and other necessary fittings. The pump will circulate the water and keep it at the correct level. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with your kit carefully.

Step 5: Test the Livewell

Once you have everything installed, fill the livewell with water and test it to make sure it's functioning properly. Check for any leaks, and ensure that the water is circulating and draining correctly. Pay attention to the water level and adjust as needed.

By following these steps, you can create a functional and effective livewell in your Jon boat using a cooler. This setup will help you keep your catch fresh and healthy until you're ready to bring them ashore. Remember to always follow local regulations and guidelines when fishing and handling your catch.

Using a trash barrel for a live well

A 30-gallon trash barrel can be used as a live well in a Jon boat. You can fill it with raw saltwater washdown. You can also use a heavy-duty tote, which can be plumbed as desired and then placed in the bow. This can be covered with a deck and an old rubber mat to seal it.

Using a heavy-duty tote for a live well

A heavy-duty tote can be an effective solution for adding a live well to your jon boat. Here are the steps and considerations for this DIY project:

Selecting the Right Tote

Choose a heavy-duty tote that is durable and can withstand the elements. The tote should be large enough to accommodate your needs and fit comfortably in your jon boat. You can find suitable totes at hardware or home improvement stores, such as Menards or Lowe's.

Plumbing and Installation

Before installing the tote, you will need to decide on the plumbing setup. This includes determining the location of the intake and outlet, as well as any additional components such as pumps, valves, or aerators. The plumbing setup will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider seeking advice from online forums or experienced individuals for guidance on plumbing designs.

Once you have planned the plumbing, install the necessary components and connect them to the tote according to your design. Ensure that all connections are secure and watertight to prevent leaks.

Placement and Securing the Tote

Decide on the placement of the tote in your jon boat. A common location is in the bow, but you can choose a spot that best suits your boat's layout and your personal preferences. Secure the tote in place using appropriate fasteners or adhesives. In the example provided, an old rubber mat was used to secure and seal the tote in place under the deck.

Testing and Maintenance

After installation, test the live well to ensure it functions as intended. Fill it with water and check for any leaks or issues with the plumbing. Regular maintenance and care will help extend the life of your DIY live well. Ensure that all components are cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.

By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully create a live well using a heavy-duty tote in your jon boat. This DIY project allows for customization and can provide a functional and cost-effective solution for your fishing or boating needs.

Using a pump to drain, fill, and circulate a live well

A live well is a great addition to a Jon boat, and using a pump is an efficient way to drain, fill, and circulate water. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use a pump for these purposes:

Draining the Live Well

To drain the live well, you will need to open the drain valve and ensure that the pump is turned off. Gravity will take care of the rest, and the water will drain back through the hull fitting. It is important to have a functional drain system in place to ensure the live well does not overflow or leak, causing damage to your boat.

Filling the Live Well

Filling the live well is typically done through a pump. Depending on the setup, you may need to open a valve to allow water to flow into the live well. Some live wells have a pickup or intake located on the underside of the boat or the bottom of the transom, which draws water from outside. Ensure this is not blocked or restricted in any way. If your live well is equipped with a pump, turn it on to start filling the well.

Circulating the Water

To circulate the water in the live well, you will need an aerator. A two-tube 12V aerator is a common choice for this purpose. One tube will draw water from the live well, and the other will return it, creating a constant circulation of water. This helps to keep the water oxygenated and fresh, which is essential if you plan to keep fish or other aquatic life in the live well.

When using a pump to fill or circulate water in the live well, it is important to ensure that the pump is properly secured and that all connections are tight to prevent leaks. It is also a good idea to have a valve or switch that allows you to turn off the water flow when needed, such as when draining the live well or when it reaches the desired water level.

Additionally, keep in mind that live wells are typically above the waterline, so a pump is necessary to fill them. The pump can be powered by a battery or another power source, depending on your setup. Always ensure that your electrical connections are secure and protected from water to avoid any safety hazards.

By following these instructions and maintaining your pump and live well system, you can efficiently drain, fill, and circulate water in your Jon boat's live well.

Using a live well kit

Choose the Right Kit

First, you need to decide on the type of kit that best suits your needs. Some kits, like the one from Flow-rite, offer a comprehensive system with multiple pumps, spray bars, and other features. Other kits may be more basic, with just a pump and some tubing. Consider the size of your boat, the intended use, and your budget when choosing a kit.

Plan the Installation

Before you begin installation, carefully plan out where you want to place the live well. Consider the weight distribution and stability of the boat. It's generally recommended to place the live well in the center bench or between benches to maintain stability. Also, make sure there is enough space for all the components of the kit and that you have easy access to the waterline for through-hull fittings.

Assemble the Components

Follow the instructions provided with your kit to assemble the live well and its components. This may include installing pumps, spray bars, hoses, valves, and other parts. If you're using a cooler as your live well, you may need to modify it to accommodate the plumbing and wiring. Make sure all connections are secure and watertight to avoid leaks.

Install the Live Well

Once your live well is assembled, it's time to install it in your boat. Secure it in the desired location, ensuring it is level and stable. Connect the hoses to the through-hull fittings and any other necessary connections, such as power sources. Test all components to ensure they are functioning properly.

Test and Maintain Your Live Well

After installation, test your live well thoroughly to ensure it is working as expected. Fill it with water, check for leaks, and make sure the pumps, valves, and aerators are functioning correctly. Regular maintenance is important to keep your live well in good condition. Clean it regularly, flush the hoses and pumps, and check for any signs of wear or damage.

By following these steps and choosing the right live well kit for your Jon boat, you can enjoy the benefits of having a live well for fishing or other purposes. Remember to always practice good water safety and follow local regulations when using your boat.

Frequently asked questions