Kicker motor sizing?

[rbeck]

I recently purchased a Wellcraft 22 WA I/O for fishing the Great Lakes and decided it may be a good idea to add a kicker motor to the boat.  What I'm looking for is advice on how to correctly size the outboard to the boat.  This motor would primarily be used for trolling and as emergency backup.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Blackhawk]

I would recommend at least a 9.9 HP.   They also come in 2 shaft lengths.  You will need the long shaft.  It is important that the anti-cavitation plate is at least 1" below the bottom when trimmed down.   

[Hockey390]

I have a 9.9 yamaha 4-stroke for my 21 WA and it works well. I think a 15 might do better though as there are some cases that I feel the 9.9 has to work too hard. I can slow to an absolute crawl if I need to which you would still get with the 15.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Great Lakes Fisherman Mobile App

[Tug Boat II]

I have the 23' WA and I have the 15 horse merc with the Panther hydraulic lift. Works GREAT!

[rbeck]

Thank you for the comments and information.  I thought the 9.9 might move the boat around on a claim day but with a little wind and wave action it might really have to work.  Any advice on motor preference and mounting?

[tgafish]

Like the guys have said a 9.9 will absolutely work.  A 15 will probably be nicer but also pricier.  Honda's are nice because of their high amp alternators.

[rbeck]

tgafish,

Thanks for the heads up on the current output.  How quiet is the Honda vs a four stroke Merc kicker...any experience?