will 5hp push it?

neckman

Cadet
Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
19
I have a 20' Grady-White that I use in Calif. delta slow trolling for striper & salmon. I had a 20hp merc for trolling but the theives got to it. I keep the boat at my dock, which I can't see from the house. I want a small motor which is light enough to hang over the stern and attach to bracket. I have been using an old 9.5 johnson, but it is a little hard on the back. How small of a motor can I get that will push this boat at a slow troll? I see some of the 3 & 4 hp that look very light, but I don't know if they would push me.
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: will 5hp push it?

Howdy, Neckman. For slow trolling, I think a 3 or 4hp would do the job. The previous owner of my 17 Montauk used a 2 hp for trolling.<br /><br />I don't think either would do as a backup to your main engine in winds or fast current, but they are both very portable.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB :)
 

redskin1

Cadet
Joined
Dec 29, 2001
Messages
8
Re: will 5hp push it?

I used to use a 5 hp evinrude to troll a 17.5 ft deep v aluminum total weight with main OB, gear and 2 people about 2200 lbs. At WOT I got about 4.4 mph on the GPS on a calm day. With waves or current (Lake Michigan), it was less. I think you may be able to use a small motor like that, but you won't have much reserve if you encounter strong currents or waves and want to maintain at 1.5 - 2.0 mph.... my .02, best of luck with your decision
 

hondon

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jun 11, 2001
Messages
1,922
Re: will 5hp push it?

If that 9.5 fit your needs,I would expect that a more modern 8 two stroke would be comparable and quite a bit lighter.Tides wind and current need to be considered on the delta and I am afraid that a 5 might let you down.
 

mercury16

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Feb 8, 2002
Messages
30
Re: will 5hp push it?

hi neckman, good qustion, ive had a little think about it and i think that you will want at least a 5hp to push that...if your not sure on what make i can suggest a yammaha 5, ive had one of these and it proved to be a really strong little engine.
 
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