If you own a Jon boat, you may be wondering how to safely store it outside.
While it is possible to store a Jon boat outside, it requires special preparation to ensure that your boat is protected from the elements.
In this article, we will discuss what a Jon boat is, how to prepare it for outside storage, and the considerations you’ll need to make in order to store your boat securely.
Keep reading to learn more about how to store your Jon boat outside!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To store a jon boat outside, you should first make sure the boat is clean and dry.
If the boat is stored for extended periods of time, you may want to consider using a boat cover to protect it from the elements.
Additionally, be sure to elevate the boat off the ground on some type of support, like a trailer or blocks, to prevent it from sitting in water and to help it last longer.
What Is a Jon Boat?
A jon boat is a simple, flat-bottomed boat that is designed for shallow water.
These vessels are incredibly versatile and can be used for fishing, hunting, or simply exploring the shoreline.
They are generally lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great choice for those who dont want to invest in a larger, more expensive boat.
Commonly made of aluminum or fiberglass, jon boats are also more durable than you might think, although they are not built for speed or long-distance travel.
They are, however, a great choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable watercraft.
Cleaning and Preparing the Boat
When it comes to storing a jon boat outdoors, it is essential to give the boat a thorough cleaning and preparation before leaving it to its own devices.
This includes both the interior and exterior of the boat.
Start by removing any dirt, debris, and moisture.
A pressure washer and a soft-bristled brush are great tools for this job.
Be sure to scrub off any algae or barnacles from the bottom of the boat to prevent them from accumulating over time.
Once the boat is clean, it is important to dry it completely before moving on to the next step.
This will help protect the boat from potential damage from moisture.
Next, inspect the boat for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
If necessary, make any necessary repairs before storing it outdoors.
Use a Waterproof Cover
When it comes to storing a jon boat outdoors, one of the most important steps is to use a waterproof cover.
This type of cover will provide the boat with protection from the elements, such as rain, snow, and sun.
Not only will this help to keep the boat in good condition, but it will also help to keep the interior dry and free of moisture.
It is important to choose a cover that is the right size for your jon boat, as an overly-large cover may not fit well or may flap in the wind.
Additionally, the cover should be made of a durable material that is designed to withstand the elements.
This will ensure that the cover lasts for years and that your boat is adequately protected.
Finding a Solid Foundation
When it comes to storing a jon boat outdoors, finding a solid foundation is essential.
A solid foundation will prevent the boat from shifting or sinking in the soil, which can cause serious damage.
The best foundation for a jon boat is a concrete pad, as it provides a stable and level surface that wont move or sink.
If a concrete pad is not an option, you can also use a wooden platform or deck.
It is important to make sure that the platform or deck is level and secure to prevent the boat from shifting or sinking.
Additionally, you can also use gravel or pea gravel for a more affordable option.
Just make sure that the gravel is level and compacted to provide a solid foundation for your jon boat.
Inspecting the Boat
Inspecting the boat is an important part of successful outdoor storage for jon boats.
Before storing the boat, a thorough inspection should be done.
This includes looking for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, or any other damage.
Additionally, it is important to inspect the hardware and make sure the motor is in good working order.
If any issues are found, they should be addressed before the boat is stored outdoors.
Additionally, it is important to inspect the boat periodically while it is in storage.
This will help identify any problems that may arise, such as rust or corrosion.
This can be done by simply walking around the boat and looking for any signs of damage.
If any issues are found, they should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Finally, it is important to inspect the boat prior to launching it back into the water.
This will help ensure that the boat is in good condition and ready for use.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your jon boat is stored safely and successfully outdoors.
Other Considerations
When storing a jon boat outdoors, there are several other considerations to keep in mind.
First, it is important to properly anchor the boat in order to keep it from blowing away in strong winds or waves.
This can be done by using heavy-duty anchors and tying them securely to the boat.
Second, it is important to keep the boat out of direct sunlight, as this can cause fading and other damage.
Additionally, it is a good idea to protect the boat from animals or pests that may try to make a home in it.
This can be done by using an anti-rodent or anti-insect solution, as well as a cover to keep out potential intruders.
Finally, it is important to regularly inspect the boat for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or splits in the hull or other damage.
By taking these preventive measures, you can ensure that your jon boat is safely and effectively stored outside.
Prepping for Trailering
When it comes to prepping your jon boat for outdoor storage, the first step is to give it a good clean.
This means removing any dirt, debris, and moisture from the exterior and interior of the boat.
You should also check for any signs of damage and wear and tear that may have occurred during use.
Its important to address any issues that you find before storing the boat, as this will help protect it from further damage.
Once you have given it a good clean, you should also consider using a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.
This will help keep it dry and protect it from UV damage.
If youre planning on using a trailer for your jon boat, you should make sure that it is properly secured to the trailer and that the trailer is in good condition.
Additionally, its important to make sure that the tires are properly inflated and that the trailer lights are in good working order.
Finally, it is important to place the boat on a solid foundation to prevent it from shifting or sinking in the soil.
If youre storing the boat on soft ground, you may want to consider constructing a platform or using a wooden pallet to create a stable surface.
This will help protect the boat from the elements and keep it from sinking or shifting.
Its also important to regularly inspect the boat and make sure that everything is in good working order.
With the right steps and preparation, your jon boat can be safely and effectively stored outside.
Final Thoughts
Storing a jon boat outdoors can be a challenge, but with the right steps and preparation, its possible to do it safely and effectively.
First, its important to give the boat a thorough cleaning and remove any dirt, debris, and moisture.
Second, a waterproof cover should be used to protect it from the elements.
Third, the boat should be placed on a solid foundation to prevent it from sinking or shifting in the soil.
Fourth, regular inspections should be done to check for signs of damage or wear and tear.
Lastly, make sure to properly prepare the boat for trailering.
With these steps, you can store your jon boat outside with confidence.
Now that you know how to store a jon boat outside, go ahead and start preparing your boat for its new outdoor home!
