Family fishing jon boat - stern or bow mounted trolling motor?

I have always fished small, calm, in-land lakes in the Haliburton region in my father's 14-foot jon boat with three boat seats, a 15hp outboard motor and stern mounted electric trolling motor. Mainly fishing for bass, with the occasional chase for walleye or pike.

I am now at the stage in life where I have a young family of my own and should begin planning to purchase our first used fishing boat.

I wanted to reach out to the OOD community for advice as I have only fished out the set-up described above. In particular, is it worth it to look at "upgrading" from the classic jon boat set-up to a boat that offers the ability to fish while standing at the bow with a bow mounted trolling motor?

My budget would ideally be under $7,500; though if that is unreasonable, I could look to save more to increase the budget.

Guess it would be important to consider what kind of fishing you'd be doing. If out alone than sure a bow mounted motor might be the way to go. With kids how much fishing are you going to do?
My guess you'll be helping the kids so a set up that caters to their needs may be more relavent.

Great point! Most commonly, I would be going out with other adults. I would guess like one in every four trips take the kids out. But of course a setup which offers the most safety for the kids would be number 1.

Just my opinion and experience. If it can fit in your budget opt for a remote controlled bow mounted motor. I found the stern mounted motors need an extra pair of hands to operate them while fishing. I now have two I pilot bow mounts one on a 1660 sea ark and the other on a small home made back lake jon boat. I found the motor so useful on the small boat ,I now for go the small outboard and the anchor because the spot lock feature is fantastic.

I don’t have spot-lock but I definitely agree with the wireless remote controlled bow mount. Mine has the FOB controller that clips to my lifejacket, the foot pedal is never used

Bow mount is better for fishing small hot spots or cruising shore fishing. A lot more money.
Stern mount let’s you watch everyone in the boat. Great for positioning the boat for someone in the bow to fish.

Anything bigger then a big 16’er and it’s bow mount because of the wind it’s harder to control from the back.

The bow mount will be best every time when it’s windy. If you have a couple of kids look for a 16 foot V hull. Should be able to find something with a 25hp this fall in your budget. I saw this the other day and it would probably suit you.
Kijij ad number 1628103772. I have no affiliation to it, it just seemed like a half decent package.

I have the perfect boat, but probably above you price point, but can go smaller. I have a 20ft jon boat that is 8ft wide at the top, 6 at the floor. you can stand on the edge and it doesn't move. I wouldn't even consider a stern electric motor, I have an ulterra on mine at the bow. I also pretty much only do rivers or lakes if calm, but can handle big waves I just don't like them.