When I first got my jon boat, one of the things I quickly realized was the importance of having comfortable and functional seating. Jon boats are known for their versatility and simplicity, but they often come with basic bench seats that can be uncomfortable during long fishing trips or leisurely cruises. After some research and a lot of trial and error, I discovered a variety of jon boat seat options, each with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a rundown of the different types of seats and what I learned about each one.
1. Bench Seats
The standard bench seat is what came with my jon boat. These are basic, flat seats that run across the width of the boat.
Pros:
- Simple and sturdy: Bench seats are durable and can handle a lot of weight, making them a reliable option.
- Ample storage space underneath: I appreciated the storage space they provided for my gear and tackle.
Cons:
- Uncomfortable for long periods: Sitting on a flat bench for hours can be hard on the back and backside.
- No back support: This was a big downside for me, especially during longer outings.
2. Cushion Seats
To address the discomfort of the bench seats, I added some cushion seats. These are essentially padded cushions that you place on top of the existing bench.
Pros:
- Improved comfort: The padding made a big difference, providing some much-needed relief during longer trips.
- Affordable: Cushion seats are relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Cons:
- Limited support: While they added some comfort, they didn’t solve the issue of back support.
- Can slide around: Without a way to secure them, the cushions tended to move around a bit.
3. Clamp-On Seats
Next, I tried clamp-on seats. These are padded seats with backrests that clamp onto the bench seats.
Pros:
- Easy to install: I loved how simple it was to attach these seats to the benches.
- Increased comfort and support: The padded seats and backrests made a huge difference in comfort and provided much-needed support.
Cons:
- Stability issues: Depending on the design, some clamp-on seats felt a bit wobbly.
- Limited adjustability: Most clamp-on seats don’t offer much in terms of adjustability, so finding the perfect position can be challenging.
4. Swivel Seats
Swivel seats were the next upgrade I tried. These seats can rotate 360 degrees and are mounted on a pedestal or a swivel base.
Pros:
- Enhanced mobility: The ability to swivel made it easy to move around and access different parts of the boat without getting up.
- Comfort and support: Swivel seats are usually well-padded and offer good back support.
Cons:
- Installation: Mounting swivel seats requires drilling into the boat, which can be intimidating.
- Cost: Swivel seats are more expensive than clamp-on or cushion seats.
5. Folding Seats
I then experimented with folding seats. These are padded seats that can be folded down when not in use.
Pros:
- Space-saving: Folding seats are great for saving space when not in use, which is important in a small boat.
- Comfortable: They typically offer good padding and back support.
Cons:
- Installation: Like swivel seats, folding seats often require permanent installation.
- Durability: Some folding seats are made from less durable materials, so it’s important to choose a high-quality option.
6. Bucket Seats
Finally, I tried bucket seats. These seats are similar to car seats, offering extensive padding and support.
Pros:
- Maximum comfort: Bucket seats provide the most comfort and support, making them ideal for long trips.
- Adjustable: Many bucket seats offer adjustable features for height and recline.
Cons:
- Bulky: These seats take up a lot of space, which can be an issue in a small jon boat.
- Expensive: Bucket seats are typically the most expensive option.
Conclusion
Finding the right seat for my jon boat was a process of trial and error, but it was worth it for the improved comfort and functionality. Ultimately, I settled on swivel seats because they offered the best combination of comfort, support, and mobility. However, I still keep some cushion seats onboard for extra comfort during particularly long outings. Each type of seat has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a choice. Happy boating!