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

[Ryeguy]

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.

[finsfurfeathers]

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.

[Ryeguy]

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.

[swampsinger]

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.

[73hunter]

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

[glen]

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.

[diverduck]

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.

[sabmgb]

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.