advice on outboards - retooling

[dtalbot]

I own a 19ft Seark Roustabout. Heavy, welded aluminum tri-hull. I use it mainly for cold, deep water fishing. I put a used 40HP outboard on it the year I bought it. Great for trolling small lakes, period. I'm gonna be fishing bigger waters so I need more power Scotty! I still want to be able to troll. I heard the new 4 cycles can troll down low, even bigguns'. I also heard to "put 2 smaller trolling motors, and only use 1 when you troll". I heard "put a big one and a troller, too". I'm confused. I have all winter to think and retool. Advice, how many, what size? Pros and cons? Thanks for your help, this is a great forum.

 

[Fouled Plug]

Re: advice on outboards - retooling

If you're going for a repower, I would suggest a main engine within 70% or better of the max rated HP of the hull. (rated for 100hp, use 70hp min) And a second 'kicker' for trolling and emergency use. The second engine should have an independant fuel supply from the main, just in case. You could run a larger motor for main power, and a small 4 or 2 stroke for trolling. It's a combo that works well here on inland coastal waters. An 'EZ-steer' rod can connect the two engines for steering from the helm. It is possible to run one large 4 stroke for both purposes, or even a 2 stroke for that matter. But for bigger waters or offshore use, the added insurance of a second powerplant is hard to beat. Just my 2 cents!