Max engine on fishing boat

[nightvision]

Hi all,<br />Just bought a small fiberglass fishing boat. <br />length = 13.4 feet<br />Width = 5 feet<br />The boat has no information on how many occupants can be on board and what max engine I can have. The boat came with an older 7.5 ted williams air cool motor. <br /><br />How many occupant will be safe on this boat. I was considering me, wife, and little son. Also, what max engine I can have. I was thinking of upgrading to a 15 hp.Thanks.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

With no name or brand boat can not give you any specific data. However older 14 foot aluminum car topper boats were about the same length and width. One I have is 14 foot measured around the gunnels but about 13 and 1/2 for the center line. It is rated at 18 HP and 4 150 lb people. The people count requires everyone to have a seat or bench to sit on. <br /><br />I do not think 15 HP will be too much for that size Fiberglass. Take it to a good local dealer and ask their opinion. If they think you may buy a motor from them most will give you a good Idea of max HP.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

I think you could go larger, perhaps 25hp, but Boatist gives the best advice here.<br />Have an "expert", or two, take a look at it. <br />Its really hard to tell without looking at it.<br /><br />A friend of mine has an old 14' glass trihull open fishing boat, rated for 25.<br /><br />Sounds like a wide and (stable ?) boat. Should have no problem with 3 normal sized people in it.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

One of my tiddlers is an 11' fibre, 4'6" max beam, and low freeboard.<br /><br />I fish in the coastal waters, inshore, and don't like to take more than three persons. It would take four, but could soon swamp if caught unawares.<br /><br />I've run a 25 hp on it, but it's happier with a 15.<br /><br />Dunno if that helps. Every boat is different. A friend has a Whaler 13, and often takes six in it. Rather him than me!

 

[Solittle]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

If that 13.4' length is centerline length you should be alright with your family in quiet water - small lakes & calm rivers. I would not take a boat that small out in rough water or with much wind. I have read to many stories with tragic endings where folks were out in water they had no business in. A 15-20 hp should be just fine.

 

[NathanY]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

USCG formula says that according to the measurements you provided, the max hp for that boat is 20 hp..

 

[shep70057]

Re: Max engine on fishing boat

Try getting a hold of your local game and fish department. They should have information in how to obtain a capacity rating and that should help in deciding the motor size.