Outboard HP recommendation

[waltmoe]

Greetings:
I am new to this site and forum, looks like a great resource. I have this same post on the freshwater forum.

I need advice on HP recommendation. I am purchasing a Gregor or Klamath 15-16 foot aluminum boat, tiller outboard control and steering. I am looking at 20, 25 or 30 hp Honda outboard. I want to troll (freshwater lake) fishing and want the ability to troll for many hours without the engine getting fouled and not too much idle power where I cannot throttle it down to a good trolling speed.

So if I'm making sense are there anyone out there with the same type of boat and motor I am looking at and can recommend what HP outboard to get.

Thanks

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

Typically you want 3/4 to full max on the boat's capacity tag. You might need a device to slow you down unless you also get a small kicker. That's why you see a lot of fishing boats with them. The big motor to get you there and the small motor to troll.

Sea Anchor

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

max HP!!!

 

[crstliner]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

it depends on hoiw big the lake u want to troll on is

 

[gss036]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

I use a Honda 15 hp for trolling w/my 23WA. It has been on there since about 1993.
If that is to be your main motor also and you are not to worried about speed, go w/20hp. If you need some speed go bigger (maybe 30 HP) and and maybe use a trolling plate to slow down if need be. As long as you have a good working thermostat in the Honda you don't have to worry about fouling plugs.
The biggest problem is having enough HP to control the boat in winds.

 

[Skinnywater]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

Here is a few other considerations.
The 20hp is a two cylinder (350cc)and weighs in at just over 100 pounds.
The 25 and 30 HP are essentially the same engine, 3 cylinder (552cc) and weigh in at just under 200 pounds.

I like max HP and I like the 3 cylinder Honda's, however I'd bet the 20hp is substantially less money, uses less fuel and is lower maintenance.

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: Outboard HP recommendation

Beware the Gregor...You may have to move the transom support mounts of the boat in order to accomodate a 25 hp as they are at the wrong location. At least, that is what I was informed of by a gentleman yesterday.