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Permalink Reply by Mike Dearing on May 4, 2009 at 8:23pm

Al,

I think all driftboats require a long shaft kicker unless you have a cut out or drop "Rogue" style transom. Kickers are pretty common on the backs of driftboats nowadays, most guys use them for going back to the top of a drift so they can drift through again. I've also seen guides use them to flip there boats and passengers around backwards to hold the boat in heavier water that you could not hold in with only oars. Pretty slick idea if you don't mind the noise. I think the most common size kicker for driftboats out here is the 8hp, but I'm starting to see more 10hp two strokes too. If all your going to be using is a 4hp I'm pretty sure your transom is more then up to the task. Just don't expect to be able to run back up swifter water with that small a motor.

Mike

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Permalink Reply by Randy Dersham on May 5, 2009 at 9:00am

The Tatman boats are US Coast Guard approved for up to a 10 hp motor.

That is a pretty heavy motor and I prefer an 8hp for the ease of moving it around and less weight on the back of the boat.. The 4hp will easily push the boat but not a heavy boat against a lot of current so make your choice based on weight of the motor, weight of your loaded boat, and speed of the water you will be in most often.

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Permalink Reply by Al on May 5, 2009 at 5:19pm

Thanks for all of the input. It's much appreciated.

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