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TBNATION BLOG

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Upgrading a 1436 Jon boat with a subfloor and interior build improves stability, functionality, and overall comfort. This transformation supports better weight distribution and a more efficient layout.

Jon Boat Subfloor & Interior Build: Transforming a 1436 into a Jon Yacht

Key Takeaways Transform Your Jon Boat Into a Jon Yacht, A simple 1436 Jon Boat can be upgraded into a stylish and functional Jon Yacht with proper planning, construction, and finishing touches. Inspect and Prepare the Hull, A strong, watertight aluminum hull is essential. Repair dents, seal leaks, and remove...
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Building a Jon boat from scratch or upgrading an old one involves unexpected challenges, from structural issues to budget surprises, that new builders often learn only through experience.

Jon Boat Builds: 5 Brutal Truths Nobody Told Me Before I Started

Key Takeaways A build may look simple, but even a basic DIY boat requires precision, patience, and careful planning to ensure stability and performance. Choosing the right material is crucial: a wooden boat is easier for beginners to shape and customize, while an aluminum boat is more durable and lightweight...
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Boat wrapping secrets, professional vinyl wrap being applied to aluminum hull, revealing tips and techniques for beginners and DIY enthusiasts.

Boat Wrapping Secrets: Things Nobody Tells You Before You Start

Key Takeaways Boat wrapping is more than visual appeal, it protects the hull, minimizes UV damage, and increases resale value. Surface preparation is crucial, clean, sand, and smooth the surface before applying vinyl to ensure proper adhesion. Material selection matters, boats with an aluminum sheet hull need specialized vinyl designed...
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Proper installation of a D-Ring on an inflatable boat, raft, or skiff, showing cleaning, applying adhesive, and securing the ring in place.

How to Properly Glue D-Ring on Your Inflatable Boat, Raft, or Skiff

Key Takeaways Attachment points are essential for inflatable boats, rafts, and skiffs. They provide reliable spots for securing gear, towing lines, anchors, and safety ropes, enhancing both safety and functionality. Proper installation is critical. Choosing the right placement, cleaning and sanding the surfaces, and using a compatible marine-grade adhesive ensures...
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boat deck sprayer

Non-Skid Coating for Hunting Boats: Apply Like a Pro with a Deck Sprayer

Key Takeaways Applying a durable non-skid coating is one of the most impactful upgrades for your hunting boat, improving safety and extending the boat’s lifespan. Proper surface preparation, including sanding, cleaning, and sealing seams, is crucial for ensuring the coating adheres well and lasts for years. Using professional spraying equipment...
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Boat transom installation on a small fishing vessel, featuring clean lines and secure motor mounting on a durable transom structure.

Plastic vs Aluminum Boat Transoms: Which Is Better?

Key Takeaways The transom is a critical structural component of any small fishing boat or jon boat, supporting the outboard motor and absorbing wave and engine stress. Aluminum transoms offer unmatched strength, rigidity, and corrosion resistance—ideal for high-performance builds or boats used in rough water. Plastic and composite transoms are...
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A customized Pond Prowler 10 fishing boat with aluminum framing, mounted trolling motor, rod lockers, and foam decking, docked by the water and fully rigged for angling.

Pond Prowler 10 Transformation: Turn Your Plastic Boat into the Ultimate Fishing Rig

Key Takeaways The Pond Prowler 10 is a popular, affordable plastic boat ideal for anglers seeking a lightweight and customizable fishing platform. With smart Pond Prowler modifications like adding an aluminum frame, decking, and safe wiring, this plastic jon boat can be transformed into a stable, fully rigged plastic bass...
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Overhead view of a professionally modified jon boat deck featuring integrated plastic lids used as functional hatch covers, illustrating an innovative and cost-effective DIY upgrade.

How a Simple Plastic Lid Can Transform Your Jon Boat Deck

Key Takeaways Plastic lids are a lightweight, water-resistant, and affordable alternative to traditional marine materials, making them ideal for upgrades on plastic jon boats and other small boats. They provide exceptional versatility and can be used as access hatches, deck panels, storage covers, or enclosures for batteries and wiring. Easy...
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Step-by-step guide illustration showing how to wire a boat switch panel with labeled connections for power, ground, and marine devices.

Boat Switch Wiring Guide for Beginners: How to Wire a Switch Panel

Key Takeaways Switch wiring is crucial for boat safety and functionality, It keeps your marine electrical system organized and ensures reliable operation of devices like lights, pumps, and electronics. Plan your switch panel wiring layout before installation, Listing all electrical loads and sketching wire routes helps prevent mistakes and allows...
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jon boat anchor system

Autoboat GPS Anchor System: Effortless Anchoring for Your Trolling Motor

Key Takeaways The Autoboat Smart Head GPS transforms 12V Minn Kota 30–55 lb transom-mounted trolling motors into an automated anchoring system. With its GPS precision anchor system, anglers can stay locked in position even in wind or current. aAdvanced spot-lock & route tracking lets you revisit favorite fishing paths or...
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AutoBoat GPS Trolling Motors

The Ultimate Guide to the AutoBoat GPS Adapter for Bass Boats

The Ultimate Guide to the AutoBoat GPS Adapter for Bass Boats Looking to take your bass fishing experience to the next level? AutoBoat GPS Trolling Motors are the perfect upgrade for serious anglers. The AutoBoat GPS Adapter is a powerful, advanced system that brings convenience and precision to your navigation...
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kayak

Portable Bass Boat vs. Large Kayaks: A Comprehensive Comparison

Kayaks are the preferred option for many minimalist fishermen due to their portability, lightweight design, and great versatility. By developing a solution that incorporates the benefits of both, this project seeks to close the gap between larger kayaks and portable bass boats. The major objective is to create a small,...
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