What size motor is needed for a 17-foot boat?

Answer by  HeavyLifter (26)

Depending on what type of boat it is, could make a difference on what size motor it takes. A 17 foot flats boat could start with a 60 horse power motor, and take up to a 115 horsepower motor. A 17 foot pontoon boat could have as low as a 35 horsepower motor on it.

Answer by  Eric6566 (115)

It depends on the weight of the boat and what it will be used for. A light aluminum fishing skiff could get by with a 15 horsepower motor. A heavier center-console style boat would require a more powerful engine, anywhere from 50 to 100 horsepower.

Answer by  Jaggers (1018)

Boat manufacturers give their boats a max horsepower rating. If this is not embossed on the boat id plate then look on line or ask your local dealer for this information. This is the size motor you want for best performance.

Answer by  Zaka (2315)

A paddle. For a boat that small - essentially a canoe, one truly needs only a quality wide-berth paddle to get propulsion.