I have a 10' Pelican Bass boat that is rated for a 3.5hp outboard motor.  My question is, is it against the law to put a 5hp on the back or can the boat just not handle the weight and torque when the motor is on and running?

I put a 5hp on my 10 foot basshunter. It would get swamped over the front. I wouldn't put a 5hp on it. Even though nothing might happen, liability if God forbid something was to happen a Lawyer would eat you for breakfast.

So it is against the law to put a bigger motor on a boat if it isnt spec'd for it?

So it is against the law to put a bigger motor on a boat if it isnt spec'd for it?

No but TopDog was trying to give you sound advice. Are you smart enough to listen ?

So it is against the law to put a bigger motor on a boat if it isnt spec'd for it?

No but TopDog was trying to give you sound advice. Are you smart enough to listen ?

No need to get smart... I understand him saying a bigger motor will swamp the boat, and I also read where he said a lawyer would eat me for breakfast... Making me think i could get a ticket for it or something worse...

I will make a phone call to our DNR and find out for sure.

BWell, I have the same boat as you (pelican 10e) with a 3hp Gamefisher outboard.  Take it from the other guys and stick to the recommended power rating.  DNR will likely tell you the same thing.  3hp is slow as heck, but it gets me from A to B and back to A just fine.  Hope that helps you with your decision.

BWell, I have the same boat as you (pelican 10e) with a 3hp Gamefisher outboard. Take it from the other guys and stick to the recommended power rating. DNR will likely tell you the same thing. 3hp is slow as heck, but it gets me from A to B and back to A just fine. Hope that helps you with your decision.

Sure does, thank you sir.  Anything has to be faster than my minn kota 30lb thrust trolling motor lol.

I have used a 5 hp on my bass hunter. More than 1/4 throttle and it was pretty sketchy and I am sure the transom didn't care for it.  I wouldn't hesitate to use it again because that is what i have but would be real careful with speed. If I was buying one for the boat I would go with the 3hp that it is rated

In some states it might be. Look at your local laws or if you have a Marine Patrol or Sheriff's water patrol ask them. Too large a motor might nullify your insurance.