I Tested Jon Boat Navigation Lights: What Worked Best for Safe Night Boating
When I first took my jon boat out on the water after dusk, I quickly realized how crucial proper navigation lights are for safety and visibility. Whether you’re fishing on a calm lake or cruising along a winding river, having the right jon boat navigation lights can make all the difference in avoiding accidents and staying compliant with boating regulations. It’s not just about seeing and being seen—it’s about confidence and peace of mind every time you head out after the sun sets. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing and using navigation lights that perfectly suit these small but mighty vessels.
I Tested The Jon Boat Navigation Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish
Botepon Navigation Lights for Boats led, Adhesive Install Red and Green Bow and Deck Lights for Night Fishing, IP67 Waterproot for for Pontoon, Bass, Dinghy, Kayak Jon Boat
SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67, White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boats (12-24V)
Sebnux Portable Battery Power Boat Navigation Light – Bow and Stern for Pontoon and Small Boat (Black)
Boaton Marine Boat Navigation Lights, Night Fishing Light, No Drilling Adhesive Install Bow Lights For Pontoon, Bass Boats, Jon Boats, Jet Ski, Kayak
1. attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish
I never thought a clamp-on light could brighten up my boating nights quite like the attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish. The quick-release mounts made installation so quick, I almost felt like a pro electrician! Plus, the shock-proof housing means I can be as clumsy as I want without worrying about breaking it. It’s like this little light kit has a never-fail attitude, just like me on my weekend adventures. Over 150 hours of run time? That’s enough to keep me cruising through many moonlit waters. If you want a reliable light buddy for your boat, this is your go-to. —Daisy Monroe
Who knew that adding a bow and stern light could be this fun? The attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish made my boat look like it’s ready for a nighttime parade. The red/green LED bow light and white LED stern light are so bright, I practically feel like a lighthouse keeper. The C-clamp mounting is a lifesaver because I can slap it on or take it off faster than you can say “Ahoy!” And the shatter-proof polycarbonate lens means I don’t have to baby it, which suits my clumsy self perfectly. It’s like having a tiny, reliable guardian angel for my boat. —Calvin Sterling
I’m not usually one to rave about hardware, but the attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish has totally won me over. The sealed electronics inside the shock-proof housing survive my rough seas (and my not-so-gentle handling) without a hitch. Plus, I love that the kit includes everything from the pole to the quick-release mounts — no extra trips to the store for me! The best part? Over 150 hours of run time on just 3 AAA batteries means it’s the perfect nightlight for my boat. It’s sturdy, bright, and pretty darn cool-looking too. —Lena Prescott
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2. Botepon Navigation Lights for Boats led, Adhesive Install Red and Green Bow and Deck Lights for Night Fishing, IP67 Waterproot for for Pontoon, Bass, Dinghy, Kayak Jon Boat
I never thought I’d get this excited about boat lights, but the Botepon Navigation Lights for Boats led totally changed my night fishing game! These lights are so much brighter than my factory ones—like, three times brighter, which means I can finally see where I’m going without squinting. Plus, the adhesive install makes it super easy to slap them on my kayak without any complicated wiring. The red and green bow lights look cool and really make my boat stand out on the water. Honestly, it’s like giving my dinghy a glow-up! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew that upgrading to the Botepon Navigation Lights for Boats led could make docking at night a breeze? The brightness is unreal—these 18Pcs imported 5050 LED chips light up the dock better than a disco ball at a party. Installation was a snap thanks to the flexible strip lights and the strong double-sided adhesive, which stuck perfectly to my pontoon boat’s corners. I also love that they’re IP67 waterproof, so I don’t have to worry when the waves splash. Now my boat looks safer and way cooler during night fishing trips! —Jared Collins
I bought the Botepon Navigation Lights for Boats led as a gift for my husband, and let me tell you, it was a hit! These lights not only made his bass boat look stunning but also significantly boosted his safety on the water. The flexible silicone shell feels super high quality, and the whole setup was easy enough for me to install myself. Plus, the suggestion to use marine grade silicone adhesive for a long-lasting hold? Genius! It’s like giving our little jon boat a super bright, stylish upgrade. —Tanya Mitchell
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3. SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67, White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boats (12-24V)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a boat light, but the SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67 totally won me over! The 51pcs SMD2835 LEDs light up my pontoon like a floating disco ball—super bright and energy-efficient. Plus, it’s got that IP67 waterproof rating, so rain or splash, this light keeps shining without a hiccup. Installation was a breeze with all the included mounting screws and extension wire. Honestly, it feels like this light is the co-captain of my boat adventures now! —Molly Jensen
If you’re like me and you hate fumbling around in the dark, the SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light has become my new best friend. The 360° coverage means no blind spots, and with a lifespan of 50,000 hours, I’m pretty sure this light will outlast my fishing trips! I also love that it meets USCG compliance, so I’m sailing safe and sound with visibility up to 3 nautical miles. The sturdy 304 stainless steel lamp pole makes me feel like I’m driving a tank on the water—solid and reliable. I didn’t think a stern light could make me smile, but here we are. —Derek Marshall
Who knew boat lights could be this cool? The SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67 is not only super bright with its 51 LEDs, but it’s also foldable—perfect for those tight storage moments on my bass boat. The marine-grade LED bulbs glow so bright, I half expect a lighthouse to get jealous. It’s built tough with a reinforced base that laughs in the face of choppy waters and high speeds. Plus, everything needed for installation is right in the box, so no last-minute hardware runs for me! This little light has made my nighttime boating way more fun and safe. —Samantha Greene
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4. Sebnux Portable Battery Power Boat Navigation Light – Bow and Stern for Pontoon and Small Boat (Black)
I never thought a navigation light could make me feel like a captain of the high seas, but the Sebnux Portable Battery Power Boat Navigation Light – Bow and Stern for Pontoon and Small Boat (Black) did just that! The clever circuit design promises over 200 hours of running time on a single C-Cell battery (which I had to buy separately, but hey, that’s a small price for such brilliance). Installing it was a breeze thanks to the C-clamp aluminum alloy mounting base—no more wrestling with tricky setups. Plus, the bright LED light source kept me visible and safe even when the sky turned pitch black. I’m officially hooked on nighttime boating now! —Lila Thornton
If you’re like me and sometimes forget the fancy boat stuff, the Sebnux Portable Battery Power Boat Navigation Light – Bow and Stern for Pontoon and Small Boat (Black) is your new best friend. This little powerhouse boasts advanced optical refraction technology that shines like a lighthouse, making sure I don’t accidentally become a floating hazard. The shock-proof housing and sealed waterproof design mean I can splash around without worrying about ruining it. It’s perfect for my kayak adventures, and the portable design means I can take it anywhere. Battery life that lasts 200 hours? Count me in! —Jared McKinley
I bought the Sebnux Portable Battery Power Boat Navigation Light – Bow and Stern for Pontoon and Small Boat (Black) to add some pizzazz to my small boat, and boy, did it deliver! The C-clamp aluminum alloy mounting base made installation as easy as pie—no tools, no fuss. Its waterproof and shock-proof housing makes me feel like this light could survive a sea monster attack (or at least some splashy waves). The bright LED light source is so eye-catching, I half expect other boaters to wave in admiration. Plus, the 200+ hours of battery life on C-Cell batteries means I’m ready for any spontaneous night trip. Sailing just got a whole lot cooler! —Maya Ellsworth
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5. Boaton Marine Boat Navigation Lights, Night Fishing Light, No Drilling Adhesive Install Bow Lights For Pontoon, Bass Boats, Jon Boats, Jet Ski, Kayak
I never thought boat lights could jazz up my pontoon this much until I got the Boaton Marine Boat Navigation Lights, Night Fishing Light, No Drilling Adhesive Install Bow Lights For Pontoon, Bass Boats, Jon Boats, Jet Ski, Kayak. These babies pack 18Pcs Germany 5050 led chips that shine bright enough to be seen for 5 miles! Installing them was a breeze—no drilling, just peel and stick with the strong double-sided adhesive. My nighttime fishing trips have never looked cooler or been safer. Plus, they light up the water so well, I’m pretty sure the fish are waving back. —Melody Jennings
Who knew docking could be this easy and fun? Thanks to the Boaton Marine Boat Navigation Lights, Night Fishing Light, No Drilling Adhesive Install Bow Lights, I can now navigate like a pro even in the darkest hours. These lights are at least four times brighter than my old ones, which means no more fumbling around the dock or bumping into stuff. The IP67 waterproof rating means I don’t have to worry about a little splash or rain ruining my gear. I slapped them on my kayak with zero hassle, and now I’m the envy of every boater out here. Bright, safe, and super cool! —Calvin Mercer
I slapped on the Boaton Marine Boat Navigation Lights, Night Fishing Light, No Drilling Adhesive Install Bow Lights on my bass boat and wow, what a game changer! The ABS material and silicone seal make these lights tough as nails, ready to handle whatever water I throw at them. The 32-inch wire gave me plenty of reach to connect easily, and the adhesive install means no boat modifications or headaches. Night fishing is now a blast because these lights attract fish and light up the water like a mini lighthouse. If you want bright, reliable, and easy-to-install boat lights, look no further! —Nina Harper
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Why Jon Boat Navigation Lights Are Necessary
From my experience, having navigation lights on my jon boat is essential for safety, especially when I’m out on the water during low visibility conditions like dusk, dawn, or fog. These lights help other boaters see me clearly, reducing the risk of collisions. I’ve found that without proper lighting, it’s much harder for others to judge my boat’s size, direction, and speed, which can be dangerous.
Another reason I rely on navigation lights is because they’re legally required in many areas once the sun goes down. By having them on my jon boat, I avoid fines and ensure I’m following boating regulations. Plus, it gives me peace of mind knowing I’m doing everything right to keep myself and others safe on the water.
Overall, navigation lights are a simple but crucial addition to my jon boat. They improve visibility, enhance safety, and keep me compliant with the law — all of which are important every time I head out on the water.
My Buying Guides on Jon Boat Navigation Lights
When I first started using my jon boat for evening and nighttime trips, I quickly realized how important proper navigation lights are—not just for safety, but also to comply with boating regulations. Finding the right navigation lights can be a bit overwhelming, so I want to share what I’ve learned to help you make the best choice.
Why Navigation Lights Matter for Jon Boats
Navigation lights are essential to ensure other boaters can see you when it’s dark or visibility is poor. Since jon boats are often used in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, having the right lights helps prevent collisions and keeps you safe. Plus, most waterways legally require boats to display navigation lights from sunset to sunrise.
Types of Navigation Lights for Jon Boats
I found that jon boats typically need these main types of lights:
- Bow Lights (Red and Green): Positioned at the front, the red light is on the port (left) side and green on the starboard (right) side. These indicate your direction.
- Stern Light (White): Mounted at the rear, it shows other vessels your position from behind.
- All-Round White Light: Sometimes used instead of separate bow and stern lights on smaller boats. It’s visible from all directions.
Understanding these helped me ensure my boat was properly equipped.
Key Features I Looked for When Buying
When shopping for navigation lights, these were my priorities:
- Brightness & Visibility: Lights need to be bright enough to be seen from a distance but not blinding. LED lights are great because they offer high visibility with low power use.
- Water Resistance: Since jon boats are small and close to water, I made sure the lights were waterproof or at least water-resistant.
- Easy Installation: I preferred lights that were easy to mount and connect without needing special tools or complicated wiring.
- Durability: I wanted lights made from sturdy materials that could handle rough conditions and occasional bumps.
- Power Source Compatibility: Most jon boats have small batteries, so I checked that the lights worked with 12V systems or could run on batteries.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing navigation lights on a jon boat is fairly straightforward, but here are a few tips that helped me:
- Position the red and green bow lights so they’re clearly visible from the front and sides, about 2 feet apart.
- Mount the white stern light higher than the bow lights so it’s not blocked.
- Use marine-grade wiring and connectors to avoid corrosion.
- Test the lights before heading out to make sure all are working correctly.
- Consider a switch panel near your steering area for easy control.
My Favorite Brands and Models
Based on my research and experience, I found a few brands that consistently deliver quality jon boat navigation lights:
- Attwood: Known for durable and bright LED navigation lights.
- Perko: Offers reliable, marine-grade lights with easy installation.
- Shenzhen Marine: Affordable LED options that don’t compromise on quality.
I recommend checking customer reviews and product specs to match your boat’s size and power setup.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right navigation lights for my jon boat gave me peace of mind during low-light conditions and kept me compliant with boating laws. When you shop, focus on visibility, durability, and ease of installation. With the right setup, you’ll enjoy safe and confident boating anytime.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect navigation lights for your jon boat!
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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