What size for trolling?

[Flyin1500]

Howdy,

Is there any guidelines on how big of a trolling motor to use? I have a 17' open bow runabout with a mercruiser 120 i/o. NADA says the boat weighs in at about 1785lbs. So round up I guess to around 2200 for other stuff and poeple, etc. I'm looking for something I can salmon fish with out in Puget Sound. What is a good place to start? Maybe 10hp? Does 2 stroke make a big difference between 4 stroke (besides having to mix oil in the gas)? Thanks!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: What size for trolling?

4 strokes are much heavier, and a 2 stroke proper tuned will idle all day..being in puget, as a troller/aux engine, 10 would be minimum, rather see 15 hp. it can get nasty there, and a main engine failure you need the 15 to limp home, or just stay bow to the weather. also have separate sources of fuel is good. contaminated fuel is one of the major cause for main engine failure.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: What size for trolling?

I'd say 15 hp minimum. Since you say you are out on Puget Sound, it's less important about the trolling than being able to make good way if the weather kicks up and your main engine is out of commission.

You need a good source of alternative power and one that will keep your boat on whatever heading you set, even in weather. Don't skimp.

 

[Flyin1500]

Re: What size for trolling?

Thanks for the info! I was leaning toward 2 stroke anyhow.....just love that blue smoke!

 

[Solittle]

Re: What size for trolling?

A 9.9 will work quite nicely on a 17'er.

 

[Rancherlee]

Re: What size for trolling?

in your case I would rather run a 4 stroke, the 10-15# difference in weight really isn't an issue with your size boat. I agree on atleast a 9.9 for your situation. And with having an I/O you can run a 4 stroke off your main fuel tank since you don't have to mix the gas for it.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: What size for trolling?

I've fished that area for 40 years and 6s, 8s, 9.9s and 15s all work well. In rough water a long shaft works much better because the prop will stay in the water and a larger motor result in better control, but they all work OK.
If your budget allows a 4S then get one, but either will work, a high thrust prop will also give better boat control.

The best liked trolling motor here now is the T8 Yamaha, these work on boats from 16' to 26' very well.