Best Paint For Jon Boats: A Complete Guide

Painting a Jon boat can be a fun process, whether you're upgrading its look or performing maintenance. Jon boats are most frequently made of aluminium, but they can also be made of wood or fibreglass. The type of paint you use will depend on the material of your boat.

For aluminium boats, it's important to choose a water-resistant paint that adheres to the surface. You can paint the boat in your favourite colour or opt for a camouflage paint job if you're using the boat for hunting. You can also buy aluminium boat paint that acts as a primer and paint in one.

Wooden boats require marine paint to protect the wood against rot. Traditional options include oil-based paints and glosses, but generic paints designed for fibreglass and aluminium boats can also be used on wooden boats.

Fibreglass boats can be protected with fibreglass-specific paint options, which offer a better finish and longevity than generic paint.

Paint for aluminium jon boats

Jon boats are flat-bottomed boats that are lightweight and durable, making them ideal for fishing and hunting. They are usually made of aluminium, but can also be made of wood or fibreglass. When it comes to painting your Jon boat, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, choose a water-resistant paint that adheres well to aluminium. You'll also want to decide whether you want a generic paint that can be used on multiple surfaces, or a specialised paint designed specifically for aluminium boats.

Generic vs. Specialised Paint

Generic paints are typically more affordable and can be used on a variety of boat materials, including aluminium, wood, and fibreglass. They often have anti-corrosive and antifouling properties, making them a good choice for Jon boats used in freshwater. However, if your Jon boat is used in saltwater, a specialised aluminium paint with an anti-galvanic corrosion formula is recommended, as saltwater can erode aluminium quickly.

Preparing the Surface

Before painting your Jon boat, it's important to prepare the surface. Choose a dust-free and debris-free location, such as a garage. Clean the surface with soap and water, and remove any loose paint. Sand the surface with 80-100 grit sandpaper to dull any glossy areas and create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Use a paint scraper or sander to remove any peeling paint, and don't worry about scratches as they will actually help the new paint stick better. Finally, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining debris.

Priming

A primer coat is not always necessary, especially if you're using a paint that already contains a primer, such as Aluma Hawk. However, if you're using a separate primer, apply two coats after sanding. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to painting.

Painting

When you're ready to paint, start with the inside of the boat, using either a sprayer or a brush. Paint in horizontal strokes for an even coat. Let the inside coat dry for at least 12 hours before painting the exterior. If you're using a different colour for the outside, be sure to tape off the inside to avoid getting paint where you don't want it. Choose a paint colour that suits your needs—a camouflage paint job is a good option for hunters, while a glossy finish can give your boat a sleek look. Apply the paint in thin coats to prevent runs and ensure a smooth finish. Work in small sections and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Recommended Paints for Aluminium Jon Boats

• TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Paint: Offers a corrosion-resistant and non-reflective finish, available in camo colours.
• Aluma Hawk: A corrosion-inhibiting coating that can be used as both a primer and paint, available in a variety of colours.
• Duralux Camouflage Paint: A vinyl-type coating with excellent adhesion, available in camouflage colours.
• Majic Paints 8-0850-2 Camouflage Paint: Available in a variety of colours and can be applied with a roller, paint pad, or brush.
• TUFF Coat UT-100 Non-Skid Coating: A thick, rubberised formula that creates a hard, durable finish, available in a range of colours.
• Rust-Oleum 207005 Marine Topside Paint: Formulated for areas above the waterline, with excellent protection and a smooth finish.
• Sea Hawk AH7033GL Aluma Hawk Boat Paint: A quick-dry formula that protects against corrosion and scratches, available in green.

Paint for wooden jon boats

Painting your wooden Jon boat will not only keep it looking its best but will also add to its longevity and help retain its value.

The traditional options for coating or painting a wooden Jon boat are oil-based paints and glosses. These are often used to prevent the wooden hull of the boat from expanding and flexing too much and to protect the wood from rot.

Nowadays, generic coatings designed for fibreglass and aluminium boats can also be applied to wooden boats. Marine wood finishes for Jon boats are also common and accessible; most of them are cheap and easy to apply. As wooden boats require extra attention and more maintenance work, it is important to choose a paint that has antifouling elements. This type of marine boat bottom antifouling paint is a water-based coating designed for wooden and fibreglass boats. The formula used in this paint can effectively repel most types of growths below the waterline.

Yacht varnish is also used to make a wooden boat look more expensive and well-maintained. Varnish not only offers extra protection to a wooden Jon boat but it also gives it improved aesthetics. However, be aware that a good primer is needed before applying yacht varnish as the varnish alone will not offer the wood sufficient protection.

If you are looking to construct or buy a wooden Jon boat, it is important to give extra attention to the maintenance of the vessel. This is especially important when you see paint chipping, wood expanding or growth build-up (like slime and algae) start to appear on the boat.

• Preparation is everything. The better you clean, prepare and carry out repairs to your boat before painting, the better the finished result will be.
• Don't skimp on the primer. Primed surfaces are even, hide joints and defects, and hold the paint better, meaning your Jon boat paint colour will be more vivid and require fewer coats overall.
• Be patient. Work like the pros and build up your paintwork with successive layers, drying and sanding between each one.
• Caution is advised when using paint thinners, as these may impair the performance of your paint or coating.

The following is a step-by-step guide to painting your Jon boat:

• Preparing you, your paint area and your boat for painting: Find a painting location that is sheltered, spacious and dust-free. Balance your Jon boat on supports, sawhorses or trestles that will afford access to the whole boat. The interior of the boat can be painted first and once the paint is dried you can flip the boat on its supports to paint the exterior. However, you should prep both the exterior and the interior before you start painting the boat.
• Cleaning the boat for painting: Start by cleaning your boat's surfaces from dirt, foul and remove any peeling paint. You can pressure wash the boat and use soap and water before finishing with acetone, or similar, to get all debris fully removed. You will probably need to sand down the areas of peeling paint on your boat to ensure all peeling paint has been fully removed.
• Make any necessary repairs: Once properly cleaned, inspect your boat thoroughly for dents and defects. These should be repaired as needed using the appropriate technique or a suitable marine filler. This is the ideal time to fix even small defects in your boat as they will be completely covered and unnoticeable once you've finished painting the boat.
• Applying the primer: You are now ready to apply your primer. Primer not only cuts down on the cost of Jon boat paint, meaning it takes less coats to fully cover the boat, but it also helps give the paint a good foundation and hold.
• Getting your Jon boat fully painted: When your Jon boat primer is fully dry, you are now ready to paint your boat. Build up your Jon boat paint layer by layer, ensuring each coat is fully dried before you sand it down to a smooth finish. Be 100% positive that the paint has dried before you start sanding or you will ruin the coats that you have applied. If in doubt, leave it out and wait another day to be sure. You should obviously not sand down the boat after your final coat.

Paint for fibreglass jon boats

Painting a fibreglass jon boat is a great way to revitalise its appearance and increase its value. It's also an opportunity to add a protective layer to the hull, which will help it glide over obstructions in shallow waters.

Preparation

Before painting, it's important to clean the boat thoroughly, removing all hardware if possible. Use a high-pressure hose, rags, and a scraper to get rid of any dirt, and be sure to rinse thoroughly. If you plan to use a solvent to remove any wax coating, wash the boat down with a non-chlorinated household detergent first.

Next, repair any cracks, nicks, or corrosion. Fill any holes with a marine-grade epoxy, then sand the boat with 80-grit sandpaper to ensure the old paint is removed. If you're using a paint that doesn't require a primer, rough up the fibreglass surface with 40-grit sandpaper instead.

Priming

Although it's not necessary to use a primer when painting fibreglass, it's a good idea to use one as it will help the paint adhere better and last longer. Choose a primer that's compatible with your chosen paint, and apply one layer before lightly sanding the boat with 300-grit sandpaper.

Painting

When you're ready to paint, follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the paint. Apply the first layer with a paint roller, then wait one to two hours before applying the second coat. You can use a paintbrush to reach any corners the roller can't get into.

Drying

Protect the drying paint from any bugs or debris, and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Maintenance

To keep your paint in good condition, clean the boat thoroughly after each use, and protect it from ice and harsh weather during the winter months.

Anti-corrosive paint

When it comes to choosing the right paint for your Jon boat, there are several factors to consider. Jon boats are typically constructed from aluminium, wood, or fibreglass, and the type of material will dictate the kind of paint you should use. While generic paints designed for multiple materials can be used, specialised paints offer more protection.

Aluminium Jon Boats

Aluminium is the most common material used for Jon boats. Aluminium boats are susceptible to galvanic corrosion, so anti-corrosive elements are usually found in aluminium boat paint. Here are some options for aluminium Jon boat paint:

• TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Paint: This paint offers a corrosion-resistant and non-reflective finish. It is available in camouflage colours, ideal for hunting and fishing. It can be used as a primer and a complete coat.
• Aluma Hawk by Sea Hawk: A corrosion-inhibiting coating that can be applied directly to the boat without a primer.
• Duralux M736-1 Aluminum Boat Marine Paint: This paint acts as a primer and paint in one, with excellent adhesion. It protects against rust, corrosion, and saltwater exposure.

Wooden Jon Boats

For wooden Jon boats, it is essential to use marine paint designed for wood to protect against rot. Traditional options include oil-based paints and glosses, but modern generic coatings designed for aluminium and fibreglass boats can also be used on wooden boats. Here are some recommendations:

• Marine wood finishes: These are cheap and easy to apply, and they offer antifouling protection.
• Yacht varnish: This provides extra protection and improved aesthetics, but it requires a good primer underneath.

Fibreglass Jon Boats

Fibreglass boats are sturdy and require minimal maintenance, but they can benefit from a paint job for added protection. Fibreglass-specific paints offer better finish and longevity than generic paints. Here are some options:

• Wet Edge: A topside paint that provides a glossy and clean finish. It is flexible and resistant to abrasion.
• TotalBoat Underdog boat bottom paint: This paint offers good protection in freshwater due to its copper biocide base and has an ablative, abrasion-resistant formula.
• Rust-Oleum’s Antifouling paint: This coating is designed to prevent damage below the waterline but can be used on the entire boat.

Camouflage paint

Painting your Jon boat is a great way to upgrade its look and protect it from corrosion. If you're a hunter, you might want to consider a camouflage paint job to help your boat blend into the surrounding land and water. Here are some tips and instructions for achieving a successful camouflage paint job on your Jon boat:

Preparation:

• Choose a suitable location for painting, such as a garage, that is free from blowing dust and debris.
• Ensure the surface of your boat is clean, dry, and free of grease, wax, dirt, or other foreign matter.
• Remove all loose paint by scraping or sanding.
• Use a paint thinner or acetone to remove any remaining dust or grease.
• Sand the surface with 80-100 grit sandpaper, especially if you have a bare aluminum boat.
• Use a paint scraper or sander to remove any peeling paint.
• Clean the surface with a soft-bristled brush to remove all debris.

Priming:

• Apply a primer coat, especially if you are painting a bare aluminum boat.
• Choose a marine-grade primer designed for use on boats to provide an extra layer of protection.
• Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Painting:

• Choose a paint colour that matches your hunting environment, such as earthy tones like browns, olives, and sand, or blue and grey hues.
• Decide on a stencil design, such as marsh grass or cattails, or create your own abstract camo pattern.
• Elevate your boat using boat stands or bricks to access all surfaces easily.
• Start painting with the lightest colour first and work your way through to the darkest tones, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.
• Use spray paint or a brush/roller for application, ensuring thin and even coats.
• Complete your paint job with a clear coat finish to seal and protect your camo design.

Additional Tips:

• Consider using a generic paint designed for multiple boat materials or a specialised paint for your specific boat material (aluminum, wood, or fiberglass).
• If using a generic paint, look for one with anti-corrosive and antifouling properties, especially if you use your boat in saltwater.
• For aluminum boats, choose a paint with an anti-galvanic corrosion formula to prevent corrosion in saltwater.
• For wooden boats, select a paint that protects against rot.

Frequently asked questions