Best G3 Gator Tough Jon Boat for Bass Fishing

Best G3 Gator Tough Jon Boat for Bass Fishing

The best G3 Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing depends on where you fish most: ponds, creeks, small lakes, rocky rivers, shallow backwaters, or larger protected water.

For many anglers, the G3 18 CC is the best all-around Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing because it balances size, center-console control, rod storage, livewell space, trolling motor options, electronics options, and manageable towing. G3 lists the 2026 18 CC with an 18'1" boat length, 87" beam, 90 max horsepower, 5-person capacity, 19-gallon fuel system, and 14-gallon/31-gallon livewells.

That said, the 18 CC is not the only smart choice. A first-time bass angler may prefer the 17 CC. A gear-heavy angler may prefer the 20 CC. A river smallmouth angler may need the 18 CCJ or 20 CCJ. A custom-minded angler may want a G3 Loose Jon.

For shoppers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and nearby areas, MotoMember can help compare current G3 availability, Yamaha power, trailers, trolling motors, electronics, accessories, financing, trade-ins, service, and long-term ownership support.

Quick Answer: Best G3 Jon Boat for Bass Fishing

The G3 18 CC is the best overall G3 Gator Tough jon boat for many bass anglers because it gives you a serious fishing layout without stepping into the largest Gator Tough package.

Here is the practical breakdown:

The right choice depends on your water, gear load, fishing style, tow vehicle, storage space, and whether you want a complete boat/motor/trailer package or a more custom build.

Why G3 Gator Tough Jon Boats Work for Bass Fishing

Bass anglers often think first about traditional bass boats. Those are great for tournament-style lake fishing, but they are not always the best fit for shallow rivers, smaller lakes, creeks, ponds, backwaters, or mixed-use outdoor ownership.

G3 Gator Tough jon boats are built around practical aluminum utility. G3 organizes the lineup into Package Jon, Tunnel/Jet Jon, and Loose Jon categories. Package Jon models are boat, motor, and trailer packages in center-console or side-console layouts from 17 to 20 feet, while Tunnel and Jet models are shallow-water-focused center-console packages in 17- to 20-foot lengths. Loose Jons are available in riveted or welded versions and can be customized through a dealer.

That variety matters for bass fishing. A pond angler, river smallmouth angler, shallow-water largemouth angler, and gear-heavy weekend angler do not all need the same boat.

Best Overall: G3 18 CC

The G3 18 CC is the best overall pick for many bass anglers because it has the size and fishing equipment most shoppers want without becoming too large for everyday ownership.

G3 describes the 18 CC as paired with Yamaha power and built for long days on the water. Its center console includes a Yamaha throttle, switch panel, cupholder, space for optional electronics, battery storage underneath, and six upright rod holders. G3 also highlights side rod storage that keeps rods organized and helps maintain a clutter-free deck.

For bass anglers, that matters. Rods, tackle, batteries, electronics, trolling motor controls, landing nets, coolers, and safety gear can quickly clutter a boat. The 18 CC gives you enough structure to stay organized while still keeping the layout practical.

The official G3 build page lists the 18 CC with 0.100 hull gauge, 18'1" boat length, 22'1" package length, 87" beam, 950-pound dry weight, 1,730-pound package weight, 90 max horsepower, 1,300-pound max weight capacity, 5-person capacity, 19-gallon fuel capacity, two livewells, and available Minn Kota trolling motor and Humminbird electronics options.

For many bass anglers, that is the sweet spot.

Best Smaller Option: G3 17 CC

The G3 17 CC is a strong choice if you want a bass-friendly center-console jon boat that is easier to tow, store, and launch than larger models.

G3 describes the 17 CC as having wide open deck space for casting, moving around, and setting up gear. The center console includes a fuel gauge, Yamaha controls, and room for optional electronics, while the front console seat includes a livewell underneath.

The 17 CC is especially appealing for anglers who fish smaller lakes, ponds, creeks, coves, and protected river sections. It gives you a real console fishing layout without the larger package footprint of a 20-foot boat.

G3 lists the 2026 17 CC with a 17'2" boat length, 21'8" package length, 83" beam, 75 max horsepower, 1,000-pound max weight capacity, 4-person capacity, 19-gallon fuel capacity, and two livewells.

Choose the 17 CC if you usually fish alone or with one partner, carry moderate gear, and want a boat that still feels manageable at the ramp.

Best Maximum-Room Option: G3 20 CC

The G3 20 CC is the top choice if you want maximum room in a standard Gator Tough center-console bass fishing layout.

G3 describes the 20 CC as a rugged, versatile boat built for fishing, hunting, work, or exploring. It includes a center console with clear visibility, easy steering, electronics mounting space, upright rod holders for six rods, a 14-gallon livewell under the console seat, and a 31-gallon bow divided livewell with side storage. The bow also has a wide casting deck and room for an optional trolling motor.

That combination makes the 20 CC a strong choice for anglers who fish with more gear, bring multiple rods, carry more tackle, run electronics, or want more space for a partner or family member.

G3’s build information lists the 20 CC with a 19'10" boat length, 24'6" package length, 94" beam, 115 max horsepower, 1,550-pound max weight capacity, 6-person capacity, 19-gallon fuel capacity, and 14-gallon/31-gallon livewells.

Choose the 20 CC if you want the roomiest bass-capable Gator Tough Package Jon and have the storage, tow vehicle, and ramp confidence to match.

Best Side-Console Bass Option: G3 18 SC or 20 SC

Not every bass angler wants a center console. Some prefer a side-console jon boat because it keeps more of the interior open.

The G3 18 SC is a good fit if you want a side-console layout with easier towing and storage than a 20-foot model. It works well for bass fishing, mixed fishing, utility use, and hunting crossover.

The G3 20 SC is the better choice if you want more room. G3 describes the 20 SC as a spacious side-console platform with wide open areas for casting and movement, under-seat storage, side rod holders, bow storage, a livewell, tackle tray storage, and a console with windscreen, fuel gauge, and switch panel.

Side-console models are especially useful for anglers who carry tackle bags, coolers, rods, anchors, and other loose gear and want fewer obstacles in the center of the boat.

Choose a center console if you want a more balanced helm and walkaround feel. Choose a side console if open interior space matters more.

Best River Bass Option: G3 18 CCJ or 20 CCJ

If your bass fishing means rocky rivers, ledges, riffles, shallow runs, shoals, gravel bars, or changing water levels, a standard prop-driven jon boat may not be the right answer.

The G3 18 CCJ is a strong river smallmouth and shallow-water bass option. G3 describes it as built tough for skinny water and useful for fishing, hunting, or exploring waters that may be off-limits to traditional boats. It includes three port-side rod holders, an optional trolling motor path, and a double-wide helm seat that doubles as a livewell.

The 18 CCJ is listed with an 18'1" boat length, 23'2" package length, 6-person capacity, 14-gallon fuel capacity, and 115/80J max horsepower rating.

Choose the 18 CCJ if you want a more manageable Jet Jon for river bass fishing. Choose the 20 CCJ if you need more room, more fuel capacity, more beam, and more load capacity for serious river use.

Best Custom Bass Build: G3 Loose Jon

A G3 Loose Jon may be the better choice if you want to build your bass boat your way.

G3 says Loose Jons are available in riveted or welded versions and can be customized through a dealer with options such as consoles, floor inserts, storage boxes, and more.

That makes sense for anglers who want a simple bass fishing platform without paying for a fully finished console package. You can plan your own trolling motor, batteries, rod holders, deck space, anchor system, electronics, seating, and storage.

A Loose Jon can be a smart fit for pond anglers, creek anglers, small-lake anglers, and buyers who want to build in phases. It may not be the best option if you want a complete boat, motor, and trailer package from day one. In that case, compare a G3 Package Jon instead.

Center Console vs Side Console for Bass Fishing

For bass fishing, both layouts can work well.

A center console gives you a more central helm position, room to move around both sides, and a command-style feel. It is a strong fit for anglers who cast from multiple positions, fish with partners, net fish from different angles, or want electronics near the helm.

A side console keeps the helm along one side and leaves the interior feeling more open. It is a strong fit for anglers who carry bags, coolers, rods, anchors, and mixed-use gear.

Many shoppers start by asking which layout is better. The smarter question is: where do you stand, where do your rods go, and how do you move when a fish is on?

What Bass Anglers Should Prioritize

Before choosing a G3 Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing, focus on how you actually fish.

Think about casting space first. Bass anglers move constantly, and clutter can make fishing less enjoyable. Wide decks, open walkways, rod storage, and tackle organization all matter.

Next, think about trolling motor and electronics setup. G3 lists Minn Kota trolling motor options and Humminbird electronics options on the 18 CC build page, which gives buyers a useful starting point for bass fishing rigging.

Then think about livewell needs. If you fish casually, one livewell may be enough. If you fish longer days, keep bait, or want more flexibility, models with two livewells may be worth the upgrade.

Finally, think about your water. A bass angler on a calm private lake does not need the same boat as a river smallmouth angler running shallow rock.

Best G3 Gator Tough by Fishing Style

For pond and small-lake bass fishing, consider a G3 Loose Jon, 17 CC, or 17 SC.

For all-around bass fishing, the G3 18 CC is the easiest recommendation.

For bigger gear loads, compare the 20 CC and 20 SC.

For river smallmouth, compare the 18 CCJ and 20 CCJ.

For mixed bass fishing and duck hunting, compare the 18 SC, 20 SC, Loose Jon, or DK models depending on how much hunting gear you carry.

For first-time bass boat buyers, start with the 17 CC and 18 CC before jumping straight to the 20-foot models.

MotoMember Expert Tip

Do not choose your bass fishing jon boat by length alone.

Lay out your real fishing day: rods, tackle, cooler, net, anchor, life jackets, trolling motor battery, charger, fish finder, phone mount, rain gear, tools, fuel, and passengers. Then decide where each item goes.

Many bass anglers underestimate storage and deck flow. A boat that looks big when empty can feel crowded once you add rods, batteries, tackle bags, electronics, and a partner.

Our team can help you compare the G3 17 CC, 18 CC, 20 CC, 18 SC, 20 SC, Loose Jon, and Jet Jon options based on your real fishing style.

Regional Advice for VA, PA, MD, WV, and Nearby Areas

For bass anglers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and nearby areas, local water should shape the decision.

Small ponds, electric-only waters, creeks, and protected coves may point toward a Loose Jon or 17-foot Gator Tough. Larger protected lakes and wider rivers may justify the 18 CC, 18 SC, 20 CC, or 20 SC. Rocky river systems and shallow ledges may push you toward a Jet Jon.

MotoMember is a full-service powersports and marine dealership group with locations in Purcellville and Manassas, Virginia, and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. MotoMember represents major marine and powersports brands including G3, Yamaha, SunCatcher, Can-Am, Sea-Doo, Polaris, Kawasaki, Slingshot, and others.

MotoMember’s website also lists new marine inventory, outboard motors, trailers, pre-loved marine inventory, service, parts, accessories, and finance resources, which helps shoppers plan the full ownership picture.

Safety Considerations for Bass Anglers

Bass fishing often starts early, runs late, and happens in changing weather. That makes safety planning important.

The U.S. Coast Guard says recreational vessels must have a Coast Guard-approved wearable PFD for each person onboard. Pennsylvania’s Fish and Boat Commission states that boats 16 feet and over must also carry an immediately available USCG-approved throwable device. Virginia DWR states that operators of motorboats with a 10 hp or greater engine need to take a boating safety course.

Before launching, inspect life jackets, check navigation lights, watch weather and water levels, avoid overloading the boat, and keep safety gear reachable instead of buried under tackle.

Call to Action

Your G3 Gator Tough Headquarters starts at MotoMember.

Explore current G3 availability, compare the 17 CC, 18 CC, 20 CC, 18 SC, 20 SC, Loose Jon, and Jet Jon models, and talk with the MotoMember team about Yamaha power, trailers, trolling motors, electronics, fishing layouts, livewell needs, accessories, financing, trade-ins, service, towing, and storage.

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Stop dreaming. Start riding—and boating—with MotoMember.

Conclusion

The best G3 Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing is the one that matches your water and gear.

For many anglers, the G3 18 CC is the best overall choice because it offers center-console control, strong fishing features, rod storage, livewell capacity, trolling motor and electronics options, and manageable ownership size.

Choose the 17 CC if you want a smaller bass-friendly center console. Choose the 20 CC if you want maximum room. Choose the 18 SC or 20 SC if open side-console space matters most. Choose the 18 CCJ or 20 CCJ if shallow rocky river bass fishing is your main priority. Choose a Loose Jon if you want a custom bass build.

For shoppers in VA, PA, MD, WV, and nearby areas, MotoMember can help you compare G3 Gator Tough models and build a bass fishing setup that fits your season.

FAQ

What is the best G3 Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing?

For many anglers, the G3 18 CC is the best overall G3 Gator Tough jon boat for bass fishing because it balances size, center-console control, rod storage, livewell capacity, electronics options, trolling motor options, and manageable towing.

Is the G3 17 CC good for bass fishing?

Yes. The G3 17 CC is a strong bass fishing choice for anglers who want a smaller center-console jon boat with open deck space, Yamaha controls, room for optional electronics, and livewell storage.

Is the G3 20 CC too big for bass fishing?

Not if you regularly carry more gear, fish with multiple people, or want more deck room. The 20 CC offers a 94-inch beam, 115 max horsepower, 6-person capacity, and two livewells, making it a strong larger bass fishing platform.

Which G3 jon boat is best for river smallmouth bass?

The G3 18 CCJ or 20 CCJ is often the better fit for shallow rocky river bass fishing. G3 describes the 18 CCJ as built for skinny water and useful for fishing, hunting, or exploring water that may be off-limits to traditional boats.

How do I check current G3 bass fishing boat availability at MotoMember?

Check MotoMember inventory or contact the team directly. Availability, model year, motor package, trailer setup, color, accessories, pricing, and incoming units can change by season and location.