Prop question

[Local46er]

I just bought a little fishing boat. It has a 2005 merc 50 ELPTO 2 stroke. Max rpm 5500 aluminum 3 blade
10 3/8 x 13, it's a little beat up. I don't know how the boat handles still ice here nor do the guy I bought it off. Inherited It. Just want a prop to give me more speed. Any advice will be appreciated.
Thanks in advanced.

 

[alldodge]

A non-damaged prop does much better then a damaged one.

Need to find out what speed and rpm your turning before we can advise if any changes are needed. It could be you have the best one for the boat, just may need to be cleaned up by a shop.

I don't know how the boat handles

 

[Sea Rider]

Is max wot 5500 rpm for that 50 HP engine. Before playing with props, need to go for a wot spin while lightly loaded on flat calm no wind water cond, check max wot rpm achieved, then will know if in need going for a prop maximization. That beated prop should be your starter, it's only some minutes test.

Happy Boating

 

[steelespike]

Once the water gets a little softer your wot rpm and gps speed will tell a lot.
Repairing your prop may be more cost effective.
Selecting a prop is like selecting a single gear on your car to do everything.
It sounds counter intuitive but a prop for speed will have less power for acceleration and load carrying.
A single prop for everything will be a compromise. Some get 2 or more props to have those ideal for each
purpose.