Flat BottomBoats

Flat bottom boats are typically small open boats such as john-boats. Flat bottomed boats can easily get "on plane" or ride on top of the water at high speeds. Flat bottom boats are typically intended for use on calm waters such as ponds, small lakes, and slow rivers because they do not handle well in choppy or rough water, especially at planing speeds. Flat bottomed boats are not very stable, caution should be used when moving about.

These boats are usually limited to low horsepower motors because they don't handle well at high speed. Flat-bottom boats are greatly suited for fishing in skinny water from the Susquehanna River to the Florida Keys, where a very shallow draft is a must.

A Jon boat (or johnboat) is a flat-bottomed boat constructed of aluminum or wood with 1 to 3 bench seats. Their most useful purpose is for hunting due to the greater level of stability as compared with a V-hull aluminum boat; however they are quite suitable for fishing as well. Because the hull of a Jon boat is nearly flat, it tends to ride over the waves rather than cut through them as a V-hull might, thus limiting the use of the boat to calmer waters. Jon boats typically have a transom onto which an outboard motor can be mounted. They are simple and easy to maintain, and inexpensive with many options to upgrade.

Jon boats are available commercially between 8 and 20 feet (6.1 m) long and 36 inches (910 mm) to 56 inches (1.4 m) wide, though custom sizes may be found. The simple design includes an open hull, without a bilge, leaving the ribs exposed. Many individuals choose to cover the ribs leaving a flat, level surface.