The right size motor to troll with

[George68]

Hi Guys
I just bought a 16' Discovery Voyager aluminium boat with a 40hp Johnson.
I had a trolling plate on my last boat and I really don't want to go that way again.
I would like to get a 4 stroke outboard for trolling in the great lakes but I'm not sure what the best size would be ??

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: The right size motor to troll with

Welcome to the forums.

If portability with punch is a must have : Tohatsu 9.8 HP, 37 Kg and 210 CC for the 4 stroker and 26 Kg and 170 CC for the 2 stroker. Unique in it's class. Ideal between 8 and 9.9/10 HP engines.

Happy Boating

 

[George68]

Re: The right size motor to troll with

Thanks Sea Rider !
I'm just wondering if I can get away with something smaller like a 2 hp to 4hp ?

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: The right size motor to troll with

Generally 2.5 and 3.5 share same CC block. 4, 5, 6 same. 8 ,9.8 same, all models are carb restriceted with exactly same weight between segments. To move boat adequately will depend entirely on your total load and expected trolling speed. A 2.5-3.5 has very basic push and will bore you soon.

If budget is not an issue go for the top 6 HP or 9.8 HP. As the saying goes : Better have more power...

Happy Boating

 

[greenbush future]

Re: The right size motor to troll with

Thanks Sea Rider !
I'm just wondering if I can get away with something smaller like a 2 hp to 4hp ?

I troll the great lakes with a 19 foot Spectrum and would never consider a kicker of that size. You will be running at very high rpms to acheive any form of troll speed. First big wave or wind, and you will tangle. Not to mention that this will become your back up power too. I'd hate to be 5 miles out with a 2-3 hp outboard as my power source to safty. Get the 9.9 and know you can do as you please.

 

[JimS123]

Re: The right size motor to troll with

6 HP would be perfect for that size boat. I speak from experience.