Two outboards vs one outboard

[Bill Von Holdt]

I am going to buy a fishing boat for use on Lake Michigan and want to know the pros and cons to purchasing two outboard 50hp as opposed to one 90hp. The boat I am going to purchase recommends 90hp. With the two 50hp<br />4 stroke I believe I could skip having to purchase a trolling motor.<br />Any comments appreciated

 

[JB]

Re: Two outboards vs one outboard

You are talking a lot of bux, Bill. Put a EFI 90 4 stroke on her, then, for trolling or safety, add a 8 to 15hp 4 stroke kicker. The justifications for twin engines are: Too much boat for 1 OB, safety for FAAAAAR offshore operation.<br /><br />I find the 4 strokes troll wonderfully without loading up or moving the fuel guage. When I went to 4 stroke, I gave my kicker/troller away.<br /><br />Red sky at night.<br />JB

 

[12Footer]

Re: Two outboards vs one outboard

Agreed. Two is allways better than one, when you can't see the shoreline. BUT at the price you'll have to pay, the extra wieght considerations, fuel consumption, you would be well advised to go with JB's recommendations.

 

[Pro23]

Re: Two outboards vs one outboard

I go into the gulf 25-30 miles. Have done so for 12 years. The engine troubles I have had allowed me to limp home. For the cost and maintenance trouble, stay with one engine. A second kicker is nice. I have found the kicker sometimes will not push you boat in rough seas and current. A good radio and access to Sea-Tow is my back-up.