Hello all, for those who own 1448 jon boats, how do they handle with trolling motors only? I'm curious if this size boat would be overkill or if I should just get it because of the better stability.

My 1448 will run 4.3 mph and handles great with my 80 lb Terrova. I have 3 group 31's, floor, casting deck, and a 25 hp on it so it's not light weight. Stability wise the decked 1448 is about the same as my 1436 with the lower seating(no deck). Big wide open windy lakes I take the 1448 and smaller protected lakes I take the 1436 with the 55 lb Terrova. 

20 hours ago, GreenPig said:

My 1448 will run 4.3 mph and handles great with my 80 lb Terrova. I have 3 group 31's, floor, casting deck, and a 25 hp on it so it's not light weight. Stability wise the decked 1448 is about the same as my 1436 with the lower seating(no deck). Big wide open windy lakes I take the 1448 and smaller protected lakes I take the 1436 with the 55 lb Terrova. 

Thank you for the response! This is excellent information. This is going to be my first jon boat purchase, so I'm trying to get it right. It sounds like if I dont deck the 1436, it could be pretty stable still. How is it with 2 people?

It fishes great with two people. Just mind your side & back cast.

I have a 1448 Jon and it is the smallest I would consider with regards to stability. There are times I wish it was a little wider.