How to Identify Small Outboard Power Boat Designs

There are many styles of smaller outboard motor boats.

Small outboard boats come in many different styles. These design differences are easily identified with a little knowledge. The key indicator of an outboard boat is a large motor off the back of the boat with a shaft and prop extending down into the water. Smaller outboard boats typically have a steering rod extending out from the motor itself versus having a steering wheel or cabin.

Instructions

1. Look to see if the boat has two inflatable pontoons with a rubber bottom. This style of outboard boat is a personal pontoon style outboard. Do not confuse this with a Zodiac style small outboard. Zodiac style outboards have inflatable sides but have a hardened hull bottom versus soft rubber.

2. Check the material for the boat hull and deck. Many small outboard boats use aluminum and have hard metal thwart benches. These little outboard boats are known as run-abouts or fishing boats.

3. Look at the bow and see if the boat has a captain's chair on a swivel. This style of fishing boat is referred to as a "Jon" boat. Jon boats are popular choices with bass fishermen.

4. Look at the hull design for a large flair going up the side. Sea dory style boats have pronounced hull sides and use small outboard motors.

References

• NOAA: Small Boat Program
• NOAA: Small Boat Safety