Kicker on 16ft Starcraft??

[tcampbell011]

So I'm pretty new to this whole boating thing. I'm loving it so far.. My first boat was an alum 12ft with a 5.5 Johnson. I just upgraded to a 16ft Starcraft with a 25hp Merc. I was planning on putting the 5.5 on my new boat as a trolling motor/kicker (not sure if theres a difference) I put it on the transom and it fits but its pretty far in the corner and turns about 70 precent each way. Is this okay? I probably won't make any sharp turns while trolling anyway. What do you guys think? Thanks!

 

[Rick.]

Re: Kicker on 16ft Starcraft??

Sounds OK but you do have some options. I have a similar set up (4hp kicker on a 16 foot aluminum). I bolted an adjustable kicker bracket on the port side of my transom. The kicker can be lowered into the water when needed and pulled out and tipped horizontal when not needed. Then later I bought a kicker steering arm that connects the big motor steering to the kicker by means of a very removable, spring coupled connecting rod and two tiny trailer balls (one for each motor). I really like this set up and I can turn the kicker with the wheel rather than having to be near the back all the time. Both motors are always turned the same direction when trolling. This year I also added a Minn Kota bow mount and I find it so very worth while. Wonder how I ever got by without it. Best of luck. Rick.

 

[fucawi]

Re: Kicker on 16ft Starcraft??

upgrade the main motor to about 90 HP and then you will enjoy it a lot lot more ...