Buying a 14ft Jon boat soon, I'm new to boats only ever been on a few. I plan on using the Jon boat to catfish out of.

What are some must haves for the boat? How to utilize storage? Rod holders, live well, lights, etc? Anything of the sort that can help me make the most out of my boat. Post some pictures of yalls setup if y'all have any so I can get an idea of what to do.

And how big of a motor should I put on it?

Thanks in advance!

A telescoping boat hook, they come in handy for all sorts of things, and are especially handy when chasing jug lines or running trot lines

9.9-20 Hp for a 14ft jon boat is the range I see [depending on weight of boat + occupant(s) + equipment]

click on link for Oklahoma boating equipment requirements
Oklahoma boating requirements


click on link for TPWD requirements
TPWD requirements

Besides the required safety gear.........A roll of TP protected by no less than two ziplock baggies. If space is a premium, throw a roll of electrical tape and bottle of Ibuprofen in there and call that your first aid kit as well.

Flashlight, knife, 11-in-1 screwdriver, crescent wrench, channel lock pliers, needle nose pliers, scissors, landing net or lipper, anchor, dry bag/container for personal items (keys, cell phone, wallet, etc).

Many other trip specific items for me, but those are largely personal preference.

Large roll of gorilla tape, several bungee cords, para cord and let us not forget some basic tools and set of spark plugs for the motor. First aid kit is a must.

Throw in zip ties and starter fluid as well.

Trolling motor and battery. I suggest a separate battery for your trolling motor so you don't run your cranking battery down. I also suggest rigging up a way to secure your batteries to keep them from sliding around in rough water or when the boat is in tow.

If you plan on any night fishing at all be sure you have lights rigged. They make clamp on battery powered lights for front and rear. If you go this route be sure you have extra batteries on board (captain obvious here). Get yourself a good headlight too.

Coolers are pretty much water proof and a good method to store things in. A 24 can or so cooler is a good size to hold all your stuff. If you go into a store or leave your boat for any reason put the cooler in the cab so your stuff don't get stolen.

A bucket with a lid makes for a good container for your range cubes. They come in a bag and you don't want them to get wet until you use them.

I'm thinking if you are catfishing you won't need a live well. If you want one for a bait tank use a small cooler with a portable aerator with battery clips (Academy). Otherwise a cooler to throw your catch in.

Good luck with your project. Jon Boats are fun. Be safe out there and plan your trips on big lakes around the wind.