Horsepower Requirements

[t0172ls]

I'm setting up a duck boat rig for next season. Probably an 18-20 foot modified "V" jon boat. Is 25hp sufficient or should I go for 30-40hp. I'm going to need to move 2-3 hunters and a lab retriever. I'm guessing all the gear will be 1000 lbs. not counting the boat.

 

[JB]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

Howdy.<br /><br />Welcome to iboats. <br /><br />I suggest 70% or more of the boats rated max HP. You need to start with the boat's rating.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[Major Woods]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

I have a 20' duckboat and the min hp requirement for my boat is a 90hp, max 115hp.<br />My previous boat was a 17' that had a 40hp motor. The 40 was adaquate, anything less I believe would not have been able to plane the boat out.<br /><br />For a 18' boat I would suggest at least a 50hp.<br />For a 20' boat I would suggest at least a 75hp.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

I would say go for the most HP you can afford and the boat will handle.You seldom hear a boater say "Boy I wish I had less hp".I have a bare bones 18 ft Crestliner utility with a 88 50 Erude it literally will fly with one person and the right wave.And it will plane the maximum load easily.I seldom run more than 3/4 speed and it gets better mileage than the old 61 25 hp Gale.When selecting your boat try for a good big footprint you may be surprised at the difference in demensions boat to boat.

 

[JB]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

Well, I have to agree with SteelSpike. I never heard a boater wish he had less power.<br /><br />But, I have heard many, including right here, who wish they could go farther on a tank of fuel.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

I agree a bigger motor will use more fuel.But if driven carefully a 50 will be economical for its rating and have that reserve power that is just not there with a 25 or 30.And under many conditions it can loaf along when a smaller motor will be running at or near WOT.

 

[JB]

Re: Horsepower Requirements

What is a 18-20' Jon rated for? My guess would be around 70-90hp.<br /><br />If my guess is correct I would recommend 50-60hp, in which case Steelspike and I still agree. <br /><br />(259)