Best Jon Boat Layout for Two Anglers

Best Jon Boat Layout for Two Anglers

The best jon boat layout for two anglers gives both people room to cast, move, store rods, reach tackle, operate the trolling motor, net fish, and stay safe without constantly stepping over each other.

For many fishing partners, the best all-around setup is an 18-foot side-console jon boat because it keeps the center of the boat open while still offering steering comfort, storage, livewell space, and enough room for two anglers to fish different areas of the boat. In the G3 Gator Tough lineup, the G3 18 SC is a strong example of that balance because it gives shoppers an 18-foot-class side-console layout with fishing, hunting, utility, storage, and livewell capability.

That said, the best layout depends on how you fish. Two bass anglers casting banks may prefer a center-console setup. Two crappie anglers with long rods may prefer a side-console or open Loose Jon. Two catfish anglers may want maximum open floor space and rod-holder flexibility. Two river anglers may need a Jet Jon or Tunnel Jon for shallow-water access.

For shoppers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and nearby areas, MotoMember can help compare G3 side-console, center-console, Loose Jon, Package Jon, Tunnel Jon, and Jet Jon options before you choose.

Quick Answer: Best Two-Angler Jon Boat Layout

For most two-person fishing trips, choose a layout that keeps one angler comfortable at the bow and the other comfortable at the stern or rear deck.

The goal is simple: each angler should have a clear fishing position, safe footing, reachable storage, and enough room to work a fish without blocking the other person.

Why Two-Angler Layout Matters

A jon boat that feels roomy for one person can feel crowded with two.

Add a second angler and the boat now needs room for twice the rods, tackle, drinks, rain gear, life jackets, and movement. If both anglers stand on the same side, reach for the same net, or cast from the same deck area, the layout can quickly become frustrating.

A good two-angler layout separates the fishing zones. One angler can work the bow while the other works the stern. One can control the trolling motor while the other manages rods, net, bait, or electronics. That separation keeps the boat organized.

The best layout is not always the biggest layout. It is the layout that gives two people useful space without adding more boat than you want to tow, launch, store, and maintain.

Best Overall Layout: 18-Foot Side Console

An 18-foot side-console jon boat is the easiest recommendation for many two-angler teams.

The side console keeps the helm to one side instead of placing it in the middle of the boat. That leaves more open center space for tackle bags, coolers, rods, anchor gear, batteries, and movement between fishing positions.

The G3 18 SC fits this category well because it is built as a versatile side-console Gator Tough model with under-seat storage, tackle tray storage, bow storage, livewell utility, and fishing/hunting/utility flexibility.

For two anglers, this layout works because it does not divide the boat as much as a center console can. One person can fish forward, one can fish aft, and both can move without constantly squeezing around the helm.

Choose this layout if you fish bass, crappie, panfish, catfish, small lakes, protected rivers, coves, docks, brush piles, and mixed freshwater water.

Best Casting Layout: Center Console

A center-console jon boat can be excellent for two anglers who cast often.

The center console gives the operator a central command position and allows movement around both sides of the helm. That can be helpful when two people fish different angles, net fish on either side, or move around the boat during active casting.

The G3 18 CC is a strong center-console example. G3 highlights its Yamaha-powered setup, 14-gallon under-seat console livewell, side rod storage, space for optional electronics, and long-day fishing utility.

The G3 17 CC is another good choice for buyers who want a smaller two-angler center-console layout. G3 describes it with wide open deck space, Yamaha controls, room for optional electronics, a front console seat, and a livewell tucked underneath.

Choose a center console if both anglers cast frequently, want walkaround movement, and prefer a more balanced helm position.

Best Maximum-Room Layout: 20-Foot Side Console

A 20-foot side-console jon boat makes sense when two anglers carry serious gear.

This may include multiple rods, tackle trays, electronics, trolling motor batteries, coolers, bait, anchors, landing nets, rain gear, and safety equipment. It can also make sense when the two anglers are fishing different techniques at the same time.

The G3 20 SC is one of the strongest two-angler layouts in the Gator Tough lineup because G3 describes it with wide open areas for casting and movement, under-seat storage, side rod holders, bow storage, a livewell, and side-console utility.

This layout is especially useful for crappie anglers who use long rods, catfish anglers who need rod holders and anchor space, or two anglers who want room to move without crowding each other.

Choose the 20 SC if storage and deck room matter more than compact towing and storage.

Best Two-Angler Center Console: 20 CC

The G3 20 CC is the roomier center-console choice for two anglers who want more fishing structure.

G3 describes the 20 CC center console as designed for clear visibility, easy steering, electronics mounting space, and accessible controls. It also includes upright rod holders for six rods, a 14-gallon livewell under the console seat, and a 31-gallon divided bow livewell with side storage.

For two anglers, that setup is useful because it provides organized rod storage, livewell flexibility, and enough room for one angler to fish forward while the other works from the rear or side.

Choose the 20 CC if you want a serious fishing jon boat for two people and prefer center-console control over the open feel of a side console.

Best Smaller Two-Angler Layout: 17 SC or 17 CC

A 17-foot jon boat can be enough for two anglers if you keep the gear load reasonable.

The advantage is easy ownership. A 17-foot boat is generally easier to tow, launch, store, clean, and handle at smaller ramps than a larger 20-foot model. For anglers who fish local ponds, creeks, small lakes, or protected coves, 17 feet may be plenty.

The G3 17 CC gives two anglers a manageable center-console setup with open deck space, optional electronics space, Yamaha controls, passenger seating, and livewell utility.

Choose a 17-foot layout if you usually fish with one partner, carry moderate gear, and want a boat that does not feel oversized for quick trips.

Best Custom Two-Angler Layout: G3 Loose Jon

A G3 Loose Jon is a strong choice if you want to build a two-angler layout your own way.

G3 says Loose Jons are available in riveted or welded versions, and shoppers can work with a dealer on customization options such as consoles, floor inserts, storage boxes, and more.

This can be ideal if you know exactly how you want to fish. You can plan rod holders, seating, trolling motor placement, electronics, battery storage, anchor storage, flooring, and removable accessories around two people instead of working around a fixed package layout.

A Loose Jon may be best for pond fishing, electric-only waters, creek fishing, custom crappie setups, simple catfish layouts, or mixed fishing and hunting use.

Choose a Loose Jon if you value flexibility more than a ready-made console package.

Best Shallow-River Layout: Tunnel or Jet Jon

If two anglers fish shallow rocky rivers, the best layout may be a G3 Tunnel Jon or Jet Jon.

G3’s Tunnel/Jet Jon Series includes center-console boat, motor, and trailer packages in 17- to 20-foot lengths for fishing and hunting.

For two anglers, these boats can make sense when access is the biggest challenge. A standard jon boat may be fine for lakes and moderate-depth rivers, but shallow rocks, riffles, shoals, gravel bars, and changing water levels can call for a more specialized setup.

Choose a Jet Jon if rocky river access is central to how you fish. Choose a standard side-console or center-console Package Jon if you do not need that shallow-water specialization.

Bow and Stern Fishing Positions

The best two-angler layout usually creates two clear stations.

The bow angler often controls the trolling motor, casts forward, works structure, watches bow electronics, or manages long rods. The stern angler casts behind, manages bait, watches rods, handles the net, or fishes a different angle.

This works well because both anglers are not competing for the same space. It also improves balance because weight is spread more evenly through the boat.

Before choosing a layout, stand in the boat and picture both people fishing at the same time. Ask where rods will be staged, where the net will sit, where tackle will go, and how each angler moves when a fish is hooked.

Side Console vs Center Console for Two Anglers

A side-console layout usually feels more open for two anglers.

It keeps the middle of the boat cleaner, which helps with long rods, coolers, tackle bags, anchor rope, and passenger movement. This is why side-console layouts are popular for crappie, catfish, and mixed-use fishing.

A center-console layout gives better walkaround control and can feel more balanced when both anglers are casting. It also creates a natural place for electronics, switches, rod holders, and helm organization.

Neither layout is automatically better. Side console is better for open space. Center console is better for balanced command and walkaround control.

Best Layout for Bass Fishing With Two Anglers

Two bass anglers need casting room, rod access, trolling motor control, and clean decks.

A G3 18 CC or 20 CC can be a strong fit because center-console layouts let both anglers cast from different positions and move around both sides of the helm. The 20 CC’s upright rod holders, livewell setup, electronics space, and bow deck make it especially useful for anglers who carry multiple rods.

A side-console model can also work well if you want more open center space. The key is keeping rods organized so neither angler is stepping on tips, tackle, or line.

Best Layout for Crappie Fishing With Two Anglers

Two crappie anglers often need more open layout than bass anglers.

Long rods, spider-rigging, vertical jigging, bait buckets, rod holders, and electronics can take over a boat fast. A side-console layout usually makes the most sense because it leaves more usable cockpit space.

The G3 18 SC is a strong all-around crappie-friendly choice, while the 20 SC is better for anglers who troll, spider-rig, or carry more rods. G3 highlights storage, tackle organization, side rod holders, bow storage, livewell utility, and wide open areas on these side-console models.

For crappie fishing, deck flow may matter more than horsepower.

Best Layout for Catfishing With Two Anglers

Two catfish anglers need rod-holder space, anchor organization, cooler placement, bait storage, lighting, and room to fight fish.

A side-console layout or open custom Loose Jon often works best because catfishing usually involves gear spread across the sides or stern. A center console can work, but it may interrupt rod-holder layout depending on how you fish.

The G3 20 SC is a strong catfish-friendly choice because its open areas, under-seat storage, side rod holders, bow storage, livewell, and side-console layout help keep gear organized while leaving room to move.

For catfishing, think about where both anglers stand when a big fish loads up a rod. The layout should make that moment easier, not more crowded.

Best Layout for Fishing and Hunting

If two people use the boat for both fishing and hunting, keep the layout flexible.

Permanent rod holders, tackle trays, and electronics are useful during fishing season, but duck season may require room for decoys, dog gear, waders, blind bags, anchors, lights, and cold-weather clothing.

A side-console jon boat or Loose Jon often works best for mixed use because it preserves open space. G3’s Gator Tough lineup also includes duck boat options within the Package Jon family, giving shoppers hunting-focused layouts to compare.

Choose removable accessories whenever possible if the boat needs to serve multiple seasons.

How Much Boat Do Two Anglers Need?

For most two-angler teams, the sweet spot is 17 to 20 feet.

A 17-foot boat is easier to own and works well for moderate gear. An 18-foot boat is often the best all-around choice because it adds room without getting too large. A 20-foot boat is the better choice for anglers who carry more gear, fish longer days, or want more deck space.

Two anglers should not choose by length alone. Beam, layout, storage, livewell position, console placement, and trailer size all matter.

A roomy 18-foot side-console boat may fish better than a poorly organized 20-foot layout.

Trolling Motor and Electronics Placement

For two anglers, the trolling motor and electronics should support the person fishing from the bow.

The bow angler often controls boat position, so the trolling motor pedal or remote needs to be easy to reach without creating a tripping hazard. Bow electronics should be visible from the fishing position. Console electronics should be visible while running or idling.

G3’s 18 SC and 20 SC list Minn Kota trolling motor options and Humminbird console and bow electronics options, which makes them useful layouts for anglers planning a complete two-person fishing setup.

Plan power and wiring before mounting screens, chargers, rod holders, or storage boxes.

Storage for Two Anglers

Two anglers need more storage than one.

At a minimum, plan storage for rods, tackle, PFDs, throwable device if required, batteries, electronics, anchor gear, cooler, rain gear, tools, and personal items. If both anglers bring their own tackle bags, the deck can get cluttered quickly.

A good two-angler layout keeps shared gear central and personal gear out of the walkway. Rods should be staged safely. Tackle should be reachable but not loose. Safety gear should never be buried.

G3 models like the 20 SC and 20 CC stand out because they combine open fishing space with rod storage, bow storage, livewell placement, and console organization.

Seating for Two Anglers

Seating should support fishing, not block it.

Two fixed seats may feel comfortable at the dock, but they can get in the way once rods, tackle, coolers, and electronics are onboard. Many anglers prefer one main helm seat, one removable fishing seat, and open space for standing.

For crappie or catfishing, seated fishing positions may matter more. For bass fishing, casting space may matter more.

Before choosing a layout, picture both anglers sitting, standing, casting, netting, and moving around each other.

MotoMember Expert Tip

Before choosing a two-angler jon boat layout, stand in the boat with your fishing partner if possible.

Pretend one of you is casting from the bow while the other reaches for tackle, grabs the net, opens the livewell, or fights a fish from the stern. Then ask: Are we moving naturally, or are we working around the boat?

Many shoppers compare boats by length first. Two-angler shoppers should compare deck flow first.

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

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

For anglers in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and nearby areas, local water should guide the layout.

Small lakes, ponds, and protected coves may only need a 17- or 18-foot layout. Crappie and catfish anglers who carry more gear may prefer an 18 SC or 20 SC. Bass anglers may like the 18 CC or 20 CC. River anglers may need a Tunnel or Jet Jon if shallow-water access is central to the trip.

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

Current availability can vary by season, location, model year, motor package, trailer setup, color, electronics, trolling motor options, and accessories, so check MotoMember inventory or contact the team before planning around one exact G3 configuration.

Safety Considerations for Two Anglers

Two anglers mean more movement, more gear, and more chances for clutter.

Keep life jackets accessible, not buried under tackle or coolers. The U.S. Coast Guard says federal law generally requires a Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket in good condition and proper size for each person onboard, and boats greater than 16 feet must carry a Coast Guard-approved throwable device except canoes and kayaks.

Pennsylvania’s Fish and Boat Commission states that all boats must have a serviceable USCG-approved life jacket for each person, and boats 16 feet and over must have an immediately available USCG-approved throwable device onboard. Virginia DWR states that operators of motorboats with a 10 hp or greater engine need to take a boating safety course.

Before launching, check weather, battery charge, navigation lights, anchor storage, rod placement, and whether both anglers have enough safe footing.

Call to Action

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Explore current G3 availability, compare two-angler jon boat layouts, and talk with the MotoMember team about Yamaha power, trailers, side-console and center-console options, trolling motors, electronics, livewells, rod storage, fishing accessories, financing, trade-ins, service, towing, and storage.

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Conclusion

The best jon boat layout for two anglers is the one that gives both people clear fishing positions, safe movement, organized storage, and enough room to cast, net fish, and reach gear without crowding each other.

For many buyers, an 18-foot side-console jon boat is the best all-around layout because it balances open floor space, storage, console comfort, and manageable ownership. A center-console layout is better for anglers who want walkaround casting space and a more central helm. A 20-foot layout makes sense for serious gear loads. A Loose Jon works best for custom builds. A Tunnel or Jet Jon is the right direction when shallow river access is the main priority.

For shoppers in VA, PA, MD, WV, and nearby areas, MotoMember can help compare G3 Gator Tough models and choose a two-angler setup that fits your water, gear, trailer, storage space, and season.

FAQ

What is the best jon boat size for two anglers?

For most two-angler teams, a 17- to 20-foot jon boat works well. A 17-foot boat is easier to own, an 18-foot boat is the best all-around balance, and a 20-foot boat gives more room for gear, rods, electronics, and longer trips.

Is a side-console or center-console jon boat better for two anglers?

A side-console jon boat usually provides more open floor space, which is great for crappie, catfish, and mixed-use fishing. A center-console jon boat gives better walkaround movement and a more central helm, which can be great for casting and active fishing.

Is the G3 18 SC good for two anglers?

Yes. The G3 18 SC is a strong two-angler layout because it combines side-console control, open interior space, storage, tackle organization, bow storage, and livewell utility in a manageable 18-foot-class package.

Is the G3 20 CC too big for two anglers?

Not if you carry more gear, fish longer days, use electronics, bring multiple rods, or want more space. The G3 20 CC offers center-console control, upright rod holders, a console livewell, and a divided bow livewell with side storage.

How do I compare two-angler G3 jon boats at MotoMember?

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