Trolling prop?

[MittenFishin]

I'd like to be able to get my speed down to troll at idle, and wondered if it can be done/helped by prop selection?

I have a 1984 19' Rinker bow rider, with 3.8 OMC 4 barrel @ 150 horse. OMC Stringer 800.
About 3000# loaded for normal fishing. 4800 max WOT rating. Nauticus Smart Tabs are going to be installed soon. I will not be installing a seperate trolling motor, but will look at drift/drag bags IF it comes to it.

Currently propped with a 3 blade aluminum. 14.25" with a 21 pitch. That prop is a little under ideal, because it's easy to over rev on the top end, but it's pretty good all-around and for tubing. get's me up to the mid 40s. Changing props on this rig is barely a 5 minute job, so I'm happy to have more than one for different applications. I'm still shopping for a 3 blade 23p or maybe a 4 blade 21 or 23p to get my WOT rpms down a bit, but that's a different conversation.

I have the oppourtunity to buy a 15" x 15 pitch OMC prop that's in good condition for cheap.
On the prop recomendation charts a 15x15p is about the "lowest" recomended for this set up for "cruising", loaded, work, ect. Beyond fishing, yes I will be doing some loaded parade laps on holidays and sunsets.

Anyone have any experience with a similar setup? Dumb idea or over looked magic option for getting slow?


Thanks in advance for reading and any advise.
-Mark

 

[MittenFishin]

Re: Trolling prop?

Well... no replies, but I will update regardless.

Being that the 15x15p I mentioned above was only $55 and in near new condition, I pulled the trigger and picked it up.

Haven't tested it yet, so this isn't the most helpful post. I know.

I hope to get it on and tried out in the next few days. by the end of the weekend for sure. I will update for the knowledge bank when tested.
-Mark

 

[steelespike]

Re: Trolling prop?

You really can't solve trolling speed with a prop.You need a trolling plate or a "drift sock"Not sure what they call it but you drag it to slow the boat.

 

[MittenFishin]

Re: Trolling prop?

Yeah. I knew that wasn't likely to be a golden ticket. I needed some kind of spare any way.
...so took it out solo today cause I was excited to do the testing and take GPS of both props I have.
... after 30 minutes of idling around watching the fish finder I decided it was time to open her up and take speed readings on the old prop before I changed.
...up to plane....and cut out cold. Wouldn't crank over after ether.
Nothing obvious.
Towed to the launch, and now enjoying a beverage while thinking it over.
The joys of cheap old boats!