Motor vs boat question - new at boating

[Donnie]

My wife and I have been wanting a Pontoon boat for a number of years. It seems like there is a possibility that we might be able to do this, this year.

We are looking at the Crest Angler 18 foot. However, our budget is very limited and I am afraid that we can only afford a 50 HP or a 40 HP motor.

Sadly to say as I have read the post in here, there is no way we can compete with the larger motors like 90's 150's, etc. We simply do not have that type of cash flow to put into that type of equipment.

My concern is this: Is there anything wrong with the Suzuki 40 ro 50 hp on that 18 foot Crest Angler? Yes, i wish that we could go larger, but I simply do not see how we can do any more $$$ wise that is.

Our main motive is fishing and crusing around. I was wondering about how many MPH is that going to get us. Most all the time, it will only be her and I on the boat.

Thanks
Donnie

[mike]

Hi Donnie, welcomd to the forum!

I dont think there is anything wrong with that size motor, you just wont be going very fast... As long as you dont want to do any waterski'ing or the like you will be fine!

One thing that you can count on, you will always wish you had more motor....

I have a 115 on my 21' tripple toon and I wish it was a 200Hp!

I think that is just the nature of the beast...

Just get it and enjoy it!

[rjminn]

I have a 50 hp 4 stroke Yamaha on my 20 ft Bennington pontoon
and it does just fine for me. I guess I'm getting to the age that
speed isn't that important anymore. I go out on the lake to relax and
let the fishing get me excited now.
But if you plan on sking or tubing like Mike said you better go bigger
now because it will be boring with anything under a 90. IMO.

Hope this helps and have fun with your new boat when you get it.

RJ

[SC.Crab]

If all you are going to do is cruise around the lake a 50 is fine like everyone said no speed or power to pull skies but just being out on a toon makes for a great time

[fishmor]

Check out the test here. Different brand but most engines will have similiar results.

http://www.yamaha-motor.com/outboard/pr ... fbull.aspx

[fishmor]

Donnie have you considered used? My step sister has bought two at very low prices, of course looking in the off season will give better results.