What size kicker do I need?

[pullthetrigger]

I am looking for a kicker motor to mount on a G3 Angler 170. It's not a very high sided boat and not a really deep V. How big of a kicker would be optimal for this size craft and how small would be the "don't go any less than that" motor? Money is an object and one I have precious little of. The motor will have to be a four stroke and a long shaft.
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[line_dangler]

Your boat aint that big (not to say it is a bad boat). You will be fine with a bow-mount trolling motor. I only recommend Minn Kota.

Minn Kota has a very large selection of different thrust trolling motors. They have many different shaft lengths and models to choose from. May I tell you that they come with a 3 year 100% warranty, which can be extended for another 2 years when it ends for around $60. When I get my fingers spread out and do the math, that is 5 years of full coverage. Aint no kicker gonna beat that.

You can link the Minn Kotas to your control console if you wish, they have auto pilot available on most models. There is no noise or gas smell, no oil changes and maintanence. The new Minn Kotas have what they call a 'Digital Maximizer' which keeps track of exactly how much power the motor needs, and draws no more.

I changed my old trolling motor (a Minn Kota) with a new Minn Kota Powerdrive V2. It has a heck of a lot more thust and my batteries last 3-4 times longer with it.

Chances are an electric Minn Kota trolling motor will outlast an outboard, and if it does not you can have it rebuilt so it is almost as good as new. Minn Kota basically changes everything in the motor head.

A couple of good deep cycle batteries will last 5-6 years at least if you maintain them properly with a good charger like ProMariner. I know Napa Autor parts sells good Stowaway Marine Batteries for around $70. They easily last 6-8 hours of fishing.

You get better speed control with electric trolling motors. And they also provide constant power. You dont have to worry about the low-idle outboard shutting off on you while you are pulling trolls that may get hooked up somewhere.

Think about it. You will find a Minn Kota for you for around $500-$550. A 55-70 lbs. thrust model will serve you good.
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[TrophyTaker]

6 hp should be plenty. I use to have a 21' Trophy with a 6hp Merc and it did just fine in fact 99% of time I didn't need go over 1/4 throttle. I know another BFT'er that has a 16' boat and uses a 4 hp but I don't know what his power situation is. The problem if you go to small and have to run the motor at max full throttle all the time you will increase the wear on the unit. My merc was very economical as well. I have however since purchased a new boat and run a Yamaha 8hp. Though I don't think you need that big of motor, I have been very impressed with the Yamaha.
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