How to Paint a Fiberglass Jon Boat

Flat-bottomed boats used on slow-moving bodies of water, such as lakes or streams, are commonly known as jon boats. These boats, generally used for fishing, have typically been made of aluminum, and sometimes wood, but only recently have fiberglass jon boats been seen on the water, due to their durability. As with other fiberglass boats, painting a fiberglass jon boat is a process that takes up to a week to complete due to the time it takes for the various product applications to dry.

Things You'll Need

  • Commercial-grade wax remover
  • Rags
  • Epoxy putty
  • Putty knife
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
  • Eye goggles
  • Sanding mask
  • Primer paint
  • Long-handled roller paintbrush
  • Acrylic urethane paint
  • Paint sprayer or foam paintbrush
  • Chemical respirator mask
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the top layer of wax coating on the fiberglass of your jon boat using a commercial-grade wax removal product. Apply the wax remover with rags using circular motions. Replace the rags as they become dirty. Make two applications of wax remover to ensure that all of the wax has been taken off.

    • 2

      Use an epoxy putty to smooth any surface blemishes on the fiberglass, such as cuts, dings or indentations. Apply using a putty knife and allow to harden. Smooth the surface of the putty using fine-grit sandpaper -- at least 100 grit. Wear eye goggles and a sanding mask for protection when sanding.

    • 3

      Apply a single coat of primer paint in a light layer of the surface of your jon boat that you wish to paint, to allow the final paint coat to adhere to the fiberglass surface. Use a roller paintbrush with a long handle to make the work less back-breaking. Allow the primer to dry overnight.

    • 4

      Choose an acrylic-based urethane paint to apply to the fiberglass surface of your jon boat. Apply the paint using a paint sprayer or with a roller paintbrush. Use a small paintbrush, such as a foam brush, to smooth the edges of the paint to make it apply more evenly. Apply the paint in a well-ventilated area. Wear a chemical respirator mask and eye goggles to avoid the toxic fumes produced by the paint. Let the paint dry for at least 48 hours before applying a second coat, if desired, or putting the boat into the water.