i just got a new jon boat, its 12' long and i plan on taking out myself, and 2 friends so the cobined weight is around 425lbs. what lb thrust motor would work good?

There are a lot of variables involved to supply a good response but you would probably be ok with something in the 30 lb neighorhood....................Al

You would be able to get by with just about anything 30lb or over.

I would reccommend getting the biggest 12 volt that you can afford (50lb+ would be ideal).  You won't regret it later.

ok thanks...Walmart is sellin a "MotorGuide" 30lb thrust motor for 95$..is this a good deal? its just below my price range (100-115$)

i personally dont recommend motorguide they seem to have more problems but thats just me and if you and 2 friends are going out on it i would say that you might need something bigger than 30lb....50 is ideal but with your price range you'd need to look for used one because they can cost quite a bit, but i guess if its on a large pond or a smalll lake then you might be able to get by but if your thinking of going on a medium sized lake you should go for the big guns....just my opinion

-timmy

Not to change the thought process here , but if you are going to have three people , battery and all your fishing gear onboard your boat , be careful because you have definately over loaded your 12 footer. Just my 2 cents worth.