Description
Classic 1238 Aluminum Jon Boat Plans – Flat Bottom
A compact, lightweight and practical flat-bottom aluminum jon boat designed for simplicity and efficiency.
The Classic 1238 Aluminum Jon Boat is an easy-to-build design ideal for solo use or light two-person operation. Its flat-bottom hull (0.0° deadrise) delivers excellent stability in calm waters, making it perfect for fishing, small lakes, rivers, ponds, and sheltered inshore areas.
This boat is designed with straightforward construction in mind, allowing both beginners and experienced builders to complete the project efficiently. The moderate hull depth and wide chine provide a stable working platform while maintaining low draft and easy handling. With support for small outboard engines up to 10 HP, the Classic 1238 offers reliable performance with minimal fuel consumption.
The plans are supplied in both Imperial and Metric versions, including clear cutting layouts and detailed construction drawings. The design allows flexibility in material selection, with options for aluminum or plywood flooring depending on your preferred build method.
Key Specifications
- Hull length: 11′ 10″ (3.6 m)
- Hull width: 50″ (1.27 m)
- Chine width: 38″ (0.97 m)
- Side depth: 17″ (43 cm)
- Cockpit depth: 15 1/2″ (39 cm)
- Fuel capacity: Portable tank
- Deadrise: 0.0° (flat bottom)
- Dry hull weight: 308 lbs (140 kg)
- Maximum persons: 1–2
- Design category: D
- Transom inclination angle: 12°
- Transom height: 15″ (38.1 cm) – Short shaft (S)
- Recommended outboard engine: 5–10 HP
This Jon Boat Is Built With
Imperial Version
- Bottom, sides and seats: 1/8″ or 5/32″ aluminum
- Floor: 1/8″ aluminum or 3/8″ plywood
Metric Version
- Bottom, sides and seats: 3 mm or 4 mm aluminum
- Floor: 3 mm aluminum or 9 mm plywood







