www.iFourWinns.com

Again, check with the DNR to be sure, but it's possible that electric or gas under a certain size doesn't need to be registered. Depending on conditions you can get away with a small motor. But if there's any chop you'd definitely need at least a 4 or 5hp for that size dinghy and more than 2 people along for the ride. Otherwise you're just slogging through a very wet ride. If you were just on a lake you don't need much but the Bay gets more wave action. I've got a 6hp on a 9'4" and it's just barely enough when there are four people aboard. It's fine for something like two people taking dogs to shore works. I did that for a buddy last season and it was fine hauling all the way across Selby Bay off the South River against some 1' chop.

_________________
-Bill Kearney, 2005 348 Vista

Bill -- Again, thanks for the info. we are going to be doing just that...getting two people and a dog ashore and the kids like to explore the creeks we stay in... if there is something more than a 1' chop... we are not doing much running around in the dingy.

_________________
__________________________________________

2004 268 Vista "Satisfy My Sol"

Then you'd probably be good to go with a 3hp. That and they're easier to store. One that's got it's own gas tank built-in would be even easier. I've not heard of anyone using electric. The hassle being keeping the battery charged, not to mention them being pretty darned expensive. Keep an eye out for 2nd-hand 2-strokes. I got my 6hp Johnson for $300 and it's run like a champ these past 3 seasons. Granted, I've only used it maybe a dozen times total. So before you go shelling out 'real' money, shop around.

_________________
-Bill Kearney, 2005 348 Vista