Best Trailers for Jon Boat Transportation
When you need a reliable trailer for a jon boat, choose options designed for small boats, easy loading, and stable highway transport. This guide highlights five practical trailers and trailer accessories that suit jon boats, from simple bunk trailers to guide-ons and dollies. It explains who each product is best for, why it’s a strong pick, and any limitations to watch. Use the comparison notes to decide which setup matches your boat size, towing vehicle, and storage constraints.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Malone MPG586XB EcoLight 1 Kayak Trailer | Lightboats and compact loads | Submersible design with 400 lb capacity and durable 11-gauge steel |
| VEVOR Boat Trailer Dolly | Moving a jon boat on driveways or yards | 420 lb capacity with adjustable length for tight spaces |
| vidaXL Boat Trailer | Heavy loads with easy handling | Large wheels and easy assembly for versatile boats |
| Ultra-Tow Jet Ski Trailer Kit | PWC-style trailers for small craft | 610 lb load capacity with adjustable bunks |
| Pelican Intruder 12 Jon Boat | Compact jon boat with fishing/hunting use | Rugged RAM-X hull and high stability for shallow waters |
Malone MPG586XB EcoLight 1 Kayak Trailer
The Malone EcoLight trailer is built to support up to 14′ canoes or kayaks and a 400 lb load. It uses marine-grade sealed bearings and oversized pontoon wheels for submersible use. The 11-gauge pre-galvanized steel construction offers long life and durability. This option is best for light jon boats and compact watercraft where corrosion resistance and easy maintenance matter. Choose this if you want a simple, USA-made trailer with low-profile submersible lighting.
Best for: Light jon boats and casual towing. Why selected: Strong basic frame, submersible lighting kit, and US-made durability. Caution: Weight capacity tops at 400 lb, so larger, heavier jon boats may require a bigger trailer.
VEVOR Boat Trailer Dolly
The VEVOR trailer dolly offers a 420 lb load capacity with adjustable length to fit different boat sizes. Its 15.7 inch pneumatic tires provide smooth movement over grass, sand, and pavement. A widened wheelbase enhances stability on inclines, making it a practical option for moving jon boats in tight yards or garages. Best for: Lightweight towing tasks and repeated off-vehicle maneuvering. Why selected: Flexible length and capable tires improve handling in varied terrains. Limitation: It’s a dolly, not a full trailer, so it doesn’t support launching or direct water transport without another trailer frame.
vidaXL Boat Trailer
The vidaXL trailer emphasizes easy assembly and durable construction with rust resistance for various weather conditions. It features large wheels and a handle for straightforward transport, making it a practical choice for jon boat owners who want a robust, affordable trailer that’s simple to set up and store. Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing a sturdy towing solution. Why selected: Easy assembly and corrosion resistance. Caution: Specific payload and dimensions should match your jon boat specifications to avoid improper fit.
Ultra-Tow Jet Ski Trailer Kit
This Jet Ski Trailer Kit merges a 610-lb load capacity with an 800-lb GVWR, offering strong support for small personal watercraft and compact jon boats. Adjustable bunks help accommodate varying hull shapes, aligning with the need for a snug fit. Best for: Small to mid-size jon boats and PWC-like trailers. Why selected: Solid load capacity and adaptable bunks. Caution: Designed for lighter, compact hulls; verify bunk dimensions suit your boat’s keel and hull shape before purchase.
Pelican Intruder 12 Jon Boat
The Pelican Intruder 12 is a dedicated jon boat with a RAM-X hull known for high-impact resistance and stability. It offers a generous 420 lb maximum capacity, sufficient for a small crew and gear. The hull and build are designed to maintain balance during casting and reeling, meeting ABYC standards for flotation. Best for: Jon boat owners needing a ready-to-use watercraft that’s built for stability. Why selected: Robust hull material and ample interior space. Caution: This is a complete boat, not a trailer; ensure you pair with an appropriate trailer for transport and launch needs.
Buying Guide
What trailer type fits a jon boat best?
For most jon boats, bunk-style trailers offer straightforward loading and a stable ride. If you only need to move the boat across your yard or a driveway, a boat trailer dolly can be a convenient helper. When launching is a priority, select a trailer with appropriate bunks, support brackets, and a compliant lighting kit.
Key features to compare
- Load capacity: Match the trailer’s rated capacity to your boat’s weight and gear.
- Materials: Galvanized steel resists rust; aluminum trailers are lighter but can be pricier.
- Wheel size and tires: Larger wheels handle uneven terrain; check for flat-resistance tires if you’ll launch from soft ground.
- Bunk design and adjustability: Adjustable bunks help accommodate different hull shapes and sizes.
- Lighting and safety: Submersible LEDs and DOT-approved lights improve visibility and legal compliance on roads.
Trailer vs. dolly: when to choose each?
Use a trailer when you need to transport the jon boat on roads and launch ramps. A trailer dolly is ideal for moving a boat across a yard or into storage if a full trailer isn’t necessary or available.
Additional considerations
- Storage space: Consider a trailer with a compact frame if space is limited.
- Truck compatibility: Ensure hitch type and towing capacity match your vehicle.
- Maintenance: Look for galvanization and sealed bearings for long-term durability.
FAQ
- What size trailer do I need for a jon boat?
- Most jon boats under 14 feet fit standard bunk trailers sized for small watercraft; always verify the boat’s weight and hull width.
- Is a trailer dolly enough to move a jon boat?
- A dolly helps move the boat on level ground but is not a substitute for a full trailer when launching or road transport is required.
- Do I need LED lights on a boat trailer?
- Yes. DOT-approved lighting improves road safety and legal compliance for towing on public roads.
- What maintenance helps trailers last longer?
- Regularly inspect tires and bearings, keep galvanizing intact, and clean the trailer after exposing it to saltwater or mud.