Need Help w/ Jon Boat Title

[AstroAg]

Howdy folks,

We found a little jon boat on our property and I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with the process of getting one registered. Especially if it was found abandoned. I have the form that I'm supposed to fill out for TPWD but it seems like an extensive process.

Best I can tell, it was last registered in 1993 so I don't think anyone is missing it.

Does anyone know how painful it is/have any advice to make it smoother?

I'm hoping to do a little DIY on how to do a custom jon boat build over in the DIY section as soon as I can! Just don't want to spend the money until I know I can get a title.

Thanks in advance!

[Razorback01]

I’ve heard that getting a boat (and engine) titled is next to impossible. May want to visit local TPWD office and get it straight from the horses mouth. One recent thread said to register in a less restrictive state, then transfer to Texas.

[Jackal]

Way easier to just use it for private ponds. Non titled boats in TX are a big headache to get registered

[kurt68]

Its a private pond boat, for the money and headache i would buy a new one. lol

[Old Bald Guy]

It takes a little time but can be done but if you are planning on doing a nice build I would highly recommend starting with a welded hull. Riveted boats develop leaks and are hard to get your money back out of.

[Drycreek3189]

I’ve done it, wasn’t much of a headache to me, just a little time consuming. TPWD can tell you all you need to know. The goober I bought it from wasn’t much help, but I got it done anyway.

[kevin nicholls]

I was told by TP&W to call Austin and get the paperwork for a bonded title. The guy in Austin kept telling me I didn't want to do this, it was difficult. I finally hung up on him.I believe on their website it has a section for a missing title and has downloadable forms. Good luck

[AstroAg]

Thanks everyone, it may well end up being our little pond boat. I'll give TDPW a call and see what they say. It's a shame they make it so difficult. If it wasn't for guys like us putting in a little elbow grease, these things would all just be scrap metal.