Kicker on 180 Sportsman

[Dream Weaver]

Hey guys,

I’m thinking about adding a 9.9 kicker to my 180 sportsman as a safety net, since I only fish the ocean.

I bought a really nice fixed mount bracket that I know will hold the motor very securely in place; however, one concern I have is that the boat is going to be too stern heavy and the kicker will get swamped with waves. Wondering what your thoughts are before I drill into the transom to mount the bracket.

Thanks!

 

[drbatts]

If the only reason for getting a kicker is for safety, you are better off getting a sea tow membership. Why add extra weight to the back of the boat that you may never need. Modern outboards are very reliable. Just my thoughts.

 

[glacierbaze]

Doesn't sound like you have the motor yet. I would certainly not drill holes until I had that in hand. And make sure there is room inside the transom for the backing plate. The higher the drier, so at least a 25" motor. I would have wanted those top 3 mounting holes on the bracket to be as high as possible, with all that leverage. That mounting surface is only 8 inches tall.

 

[DennisG01]

SeaTow is a good idea.

You could always mount an adjustable OB mount to the transom OB mount thing you just bought. That would hold the kicker higher and then you would lower it into the water when needed. Actually, you probably ONLY need the adjustable mount.

 

[Dream Weaver]

Thanks for the advice guys! I ended up bagging the idea and going with the sea tow membership.

 

[glacierbaze]

You saved a bunch, I would rather have a good trolling motor with spot lock.