HookLess

Guys- I found a used mid 90's (not sure of the year) Bass Tracker "Panfish 16" stick-steer with a 25hp Merc 2-stroke for $2500. Everything on the boat works; bilge pump, trolling motor, etc. While it doesn't look new, everything seems sound. Without pictures or more details I'm not sure if you guys can offer much advice but all are welcome. I've got two very young children so the boat will mainly be for me, alone, for the next 4 years or so. This will be my first boat so I'm not real sure what to look for on a used boat- that advice would be helpful too. Thanks a bunch, Sean

I had no idea that a 10hp motor could push a 14' jon that fast! As long as the motor can plane a 14' jon with me, the wife (300lbs combinded) plus our gear, I'm happy. I guess a 10hp motor could do that? ...Would I have to run it wide open to plane with the both of us in it?

Hello Boys, I'm in the market for a 9.9 to 15hp outboard (and a 14ft jon). If I run across a really good used rig, it'll probably be a 2-stroke, I guess. If, however, I can't find a good used one at a price I'm happy with, I'll need to decide between a new 2 or 4 stroke motor. As I understand it; the 2-strokes are lighter and a fuzz cheaper to buy, the 4-strokes are smoother, quieter and cheaper on gas. But how much smoother, quieter and easier on gas are they? Since the 2006 EPA standards are so strict- if I wait until spring for a new outboard will my only choice be 4-strokes? Thanks,