Looking for an outboard and need opinions

[FIJI]

I have a 50 yr old Evinrude Lightwin 3 hp that I no longer have a boat for. Still......every few years I pull the rope and she fires right up. Wont win any races but pushes small boats through weeds and "gets ya there". Sips gas too

The 3hp is nice and light to carry or take on/off.

[Mr. 16 gauge]

I have an old Evinrude 9.9 hp that I got with my 13 ft boat when I bought it (used) about 12-13 years ago.....it's circa late 70's. Only issue I've had with it (so far) is a cracked gasket.....easy enough to fix if you know what your doing (I don't). I have had some issues with spark plug fouling, but I change them every couple of years, and I have no problem.
I also have a 15 hp outboard for my 16 ft Johnboat.....it's a Sears Gamefisher. Worked fine for the first few years (bought it new in 90), and then I started having issues with it (starter rope wouldn't "catch").....I've taken it to several outboard repair shops, and none of them want to look at it, let alone repair it. I've since replaced the damaged part (they are still available), as well as a cracked primer bulb. I intend to sell it this spring.....I already bought it's replacement (Johnson 15 hp) three years ago.

That's all I know, but I will say this.....I don't know how big of bodies of water you plan on fishing, but having a bigger motor to get you OFF the water when a summer storm suddenly pops up is a nice plus!!!!

Good luck in your quest!

[dovehunter]

Based on my experience you can't go wrong with either a Johnson or Evinrude. I have an old Clinton 5-hp air-cooled from back in the 60's. It still runs (believe it or not) on those rare occasion that I use it any more. Just shoot a little raw gas in the spark plug hole, pull the crank a few times, and she fires right up. Most of the places I fish any more are small farm ponds and my Minkota electric trolling motor works fine for that. It's easier to fool with and lighter weight.