Kicker size question

[john from md]

I am thinking of putting one of the Merc 2.5hp 4 strokes on my 16ft Bayliner as an emergency back up. I am planning on using one of those mounts that fold out and down.

Does this idea sound feasable? I know 2.5 is not much but I fish by myself and the boat is not too loaded down.

I fish the Chesapeake Bay mostly and my engine is a 1985 85hp. While it runs great, it is still long in the tooth and may go someday when I am in the middle of the bay!

Thanks for your assistance,

John

 

[steelespike]

Re: Kicker size question

Well it probably could push it but I would wonder about any winds or tides.
I think I would lean toward the evinrude/Johnson 5, 5.5 or 6.Enough power and you wouldn't have to carry 2 types of gas.Probably wouldn't weigh much more than the 2.5 4 stroke.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Kicker size question

My 3 hp kicker on my 13 foot whaler barely pushes it more than a good walking speed. Your boat is quite a bit larger, so I'd go for a larger kicker than a 2.5.

 

[john from md]

Re: Kicker size question

Duhhh, I never thought about the two types of gas for some reason.

The reason that I was leaning towards the smaller motor was that I have a bad back and the 2.5 only weighed 38 pounds. I agree, the boat is a bit big for it. You guys have validated what I was thinking all along.

What two strokes are out there in the 4 to 6 HP?

Thanks,

John

 

[dingbat]

Re: Kicker size question

Towing insurance is cheaper and easier on the back.

Don't leave the dock without it

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Kicker size question

Located at Davidsonville, you will be fishing mostly around Annapolis, the Severn, and the bay itself, correct? 2.5 is going to do nothing for you on a 16 footer, and with the weekend chop on the inlet to the Severn, it might even be dangerous. If you really want something that small, buy a pair of oars; they'll go just as fast for way less money.

You want at least an 8 HP engine. They are still very light in that size; they are meant to be taken off the boat. Find a used 2 cycle for a couple of hundred.

 

[john from md]

Re: Kicker size question

Hi Frank,

I actually fish the bay to Pax River. I just put it in at different places.

I'll take your advise and look for a two stroke with more guts.

Regards,

John

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Kicker size question

i agree with seatow, or towboat, with that, the 2.5 may keep you into the wind, long enough for them to get there, and anchor would do the same thing, thou.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Kicker size question

Agree that 2.5 hp is not enough. Seatow is a great idea as is a 6hp plus kicker.
Just my opinion though.