Kicker speeds

Ok, here’s the deal. I’m kinda lookin for a new kicker, and really want a Yamaha more than anything. I have an 8hp Nissan right now, and it’s a great motor, but just not built for being on a walleye boat and taking the beating. Smooth running though, and gets me down to .9 mph at idle. That’s where the question lies; if I go to a T8 or T9.9 in a Yammy, will I still be able to get down that low? It’s a real asset for me to have that slow control. Thanks in advance for the info and thoughts.

Yep

Shouldn’t be an issue.

I suppose the size and type of boat plays a significant factor in everyone’s personal experience. Fishing the Mississippi River I can get my Lund to stay in one spot facing upstream with my kicker. It is 17′ 6″ in length. On lakes, I don’t think I have tried to fish that slow, but I know that 1.1 mph is no problem

2025 prov with 225 and t8. with big motor off and in gear so the prop don’t spin, my t8 gets down to .5, lower the bow mount and that causes a little more drag. 2- 5 gallon pales out the sides causes even more drag. very happy with the t8

Well well well, these are good replies indeed. I was deathly worried about going too fast, so this is easing my mind. It sure is fun catching wipers on cranks at 1.0 mph!

Also depends on the prop. The high thrust 4 blades are smooth and give the best low speed range on kickers.

I know you didn’t give this consideration, but I very much like my 8hp Honda..back trolls down to .4-.5, and in the down position forward trolling can go down to .7-.8 easy. Runs like a fine tuned sewing machine….

Funny you mention this Flat, but yes, I have considered a Honda. The problems, though, are that I know nothing about them and their build, they are far more scarce than the Yammys (especially around here it seems), and the longer tiller handle with the shift on the arm (which I believe is exclusive to Yamaha) is a real seller for me. I wish I could see a Honda somewhere, but I believe I’m driving 200+ miles to do so.