Kicker Boat Motors: Your Complete Guide to Selection, Use, and Benefits

Picture this: You’re five miles offshore, the salmon are biting, and suddenly your main engine sputters and dies. Or perhaps you’re trying to maintain a precise trolling speed in a stiff wind, but your massive primary outboard simply can’t run slow enough without fouling plugs. These scenarios aren’t just frustrating—they can ruin a perfect fishing day or, worse, become dangerous situations.

This is where a kicker boat motor transforms from a luxury into an essential piece of marine equipment.

So, what exactly is a kicker motor? A kicker boat motor is a small, secondary outboard engine, typically ranging from 2.5 to 15 horsepower, mounted alongside your main outboard. Its primary purposes are for trolling at slow speeds, providing redundant backup power for safety, and offering precise maneuverability in tight spots.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend boater, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about kicker motors—from determining if you need one to selecting the perfect model and using it like a pro.

What Is a Kicker Motor and Why Do You Need One?

A kicker motor serves as your boat’s versatile workhorse, performing specialized tasks that your main engine either can’t do efficiently or shouldn’t be tasked with. While your primary outboard is designed for getting you from point A to point B quickly, the kicker motor handles the nuanced work that happens in between.

The Three Core Functions of a Kicker Motor

Precision Trolling
The most common reason anglers install kicker motors is for trolling. Main engines, especially larger ones, aren’t designed to operate efficiently at the slow speeds (1-3 mph) required for most fishing techniques. Running a 150+ HP engine at trolling speeds can lead to fouled spark plugs, carbon buildup, and inefficient fuel consumption. A kicker motor, by contrast, is specifically engineered to run smoothly and quietly at these low RPMs, allowing you to maintain the perfect speed for presenting lures to fish.

Essential Safety & Backup
Imagine being stranded miles from shore with a dead main engine. Your kicker motor becomes your get-home insurance policy. While it won’t get you home at planning speeds, a reliable 9.9 HP kicker can push even a substantial fishing boat at 4-6 knots—enough to safely return to port. This safety aspect alone makes a kicker motor worth considering for any boater who ventures beyond swimming distance from shore.

Enhanced Boat Control
The smaller size and lower power output of kicker motors make them ideal for fine maneuvering. When docking in tight spaces or navigating through crowded marinas, the kicker provides superior low-speed control compared to a powerful main engine. Many experienced boaters use their kickers exclusively for docking procedures, as the subtle throttle adjustments are easier to manage.

Who Benefits Most from a Kicker Motor?

While any boater can appreciate the safety benefits, certain users will find a kicker motor particularly valuable:

Serious Anglers: Salmon, walleye, trout, and steelhead fishermen who spend hours trolling will see immediate benefits in both fish-catching ability and fuel savings.
Offshore & Great Lakes Boaters: Those who venture into large bodies of water where a mechanical failure could be dangerous should consider a kicker essential safety equipment.
Boaters Prioritizing Safety: Even casual boaters who value redundancy and peace of mind will appreciate having a backup propulsion system.

Choosing the Right Kicker Motor: An Expert Buying Guide

Selecting the appropriate kicker motor involves considering several key factors. Making the right choice here will ensure years of reliable service and optimal performance.

Key Factor #1: Horsepower (HP) and Shaft Length

Horsepower Guidelines
Kicker motors typically range from 2.5 to 15 HP, with 9.9 HP being the most popular and versatile choice. Here’s a general guide:

2.5-5 HP: Suitable for small boats under 16 feet, primarily used as backup power
8-9.9 HP: The sweet spot for most fishing boats between 17-22 feet; adequate for trolling and get-home power
15 HP: Ideal for larger boats over 22 feet or those frequently operating in strong currents or rough conditions

Shaft Length Selection
Choosing the correct shaft length is critical for performance and safety. Measure from the top of the transom to the bottom of the hull (not including the keel). Standard lengths are:

15-inch: Short shaft for standard transoms
20-inch: Long shaft for higher transoms
25-inch: Extra-long shaft for euro-style transoms or bracket mounting

An improperly sized shaft will either cavitate (too short) or create excessive drag (too long).

Key Factor #2: Electric Start vs. Pull Start

Electric Start Advantages
– Convenience, especially when frequently starting and stopping while fishing
– Easier operation for those with physical limitations
– Typically includes alternator output for battery charging
– Remote start capability from helm position

Pull Start Considerations
– Lower initial cost
– Lighter weight
– Simpler system with fewer potential failure points
– Doesn’t drain battery if left in storage

For most boaters, especially those using the kicker frequently, electric start is worth the additional investment.

Key Factor #3: Power Tilt vs. Manual Tilt

Power Tilt Benefits
– Effortless raising and lowering, especially valuable in rough conditions
– Often includes separate trim settings for optimal running angle
– Integration with main engine controls possible
– Reduces physical strain

Manual Tilt Reality
– Significant cost savings
– Lighter weight
– Fewer electrical components to maintain
– Adequate for occasional use or smaller motors

For frequent users or those with physical limitations, power tilt is a worthwhile luxury. Weekend anglers with smaller boats may find manual tilt perfectly acceptable.

Key Factor #4: Brand Comparison & Reliability

When investing in a kicker motor, brand reputation and local service availability matter. Here’s a brief overview of major players:

Mercury: Excellent dealer network, reliable 4-stroke technology, often the preferred choice for integration with Mercury main engines
Yamaha: Renowned for reliability and smooth operation, strong saltwater corrosion resistance
Suzuki: Known for fuel efficiency and innovative features like lean-burn control
Tohatsu: Often manufactures engines for other brands, offering great value and reliability
Hidea: Emerging as a competitive option with feature-rich models at accessible price points, worth considering for budget-conscious boaters

When comparing brands, consider the warranty terms, availability of local service, and compatibility with your existing setup.

Installation and Setup: Pro Tips for Optimal Performance

Proper installation is crucial for getting the most from your kicker motor. While some aspects can be DIY projects, others are best left to professionals.

Mounting Options and Best Practices

Transom Mounts
Direct transom mounting is the most common installation method. Ensure your transom has adequate strength and thickness to support the additional weight and stress. Use marine-grade backing plates for all through-bolt installations to distribute load properly.

Bracket Mounts
Bracket mounting is ideal when transom space is limited or when the transom shape isn’t suitable. Brackets also position the motor further aft, which can improve performance in some hull designs. When selecting a bracket, ensure it’s rated for the weight of your specific motor.

Height and Alignment
The anti-ventilation plate (just above the propeller) should be approximately 1 inch below the hull bottom. Proper alignment with the main engine is crucial if you plan to use a steering link—the kicker should be mounted parallel to the main engine’s centerline.

The Crucial Link: Connecting to Your Main Engine

Expert Tip: Using an EZ-Steer or Panther tie-bar system for synchronized steering transforms the kicker motor experience. These simple mechanical links allow you to steer both engines from your main helm, eliminating the need for separate controls or constantly adjusting the kicker’s steering friction.

Benefits of Linked Steering:
– Control both engines from your primary steering station
– Maintain precise course control while trolling
– Simplified operation—no need to manage two steering systems
– Ability to use the kicker for docking maneuvers while at the helm

Independent Steering Considerations:
Some anglers prefer independent steering, particularly for techniques like backtrolling where frequent directional changes are necessary. This approach offers maximum flexibility but requires either a remote steering system or physically adjusting the motor while fishing.

Fuel System and Electrical Connections

Fuel Delivery Options
– Dedicated Fuel Line: The preferred method—a separate fuel line from its own tank or a dedicated pickup in the main tank prevents issues with fuel contamination affecting both engines
– T-Fitting: A more economical approach that taps into the main engine’s fuel line, but risks both engines being disabled by a single fuel system issue

Electrical Considerations
Most electric start kicker motors include a small alternator. While this can provide some battery charging, it’s insufficient as a primary charging source—don’t rely on it to replenish batteries drained by extensive electronics use. Always ensure proper fusing and use marine-grade wiring for all connections.

Real-World Use: Maximizing Your Kicker Motor on the Water

Once installed, mastering your kicker motor’s capabilities will significantly enhance your time on the water.

Trolling Speed Mastery

Controlling trolling speed involves more than just setting the throttle. Understanding how external factors affect your speed is key:

Wind Effect: A following wind will increase speed, while a headwind decreases it—adjust throttle accordingly
Current Influence: Speed Over Ground (SOG) vs. Speed Through Water—use your GPS speed for lure presentation, but understand that current affects both
Weight Distribution: Heavily loaded boats may troll differently—experiment with trim and weight distribution

Pro Tip: Use a GPS-based speedometer rather than your paddle wheel speed sensor for tilling speed accuracy. Current doesn’t affect GPS speed, giving you a true measure of how fast your lures are moving relative to the bottom.

Advanced Maneuvering Techniques

Back-Trolling
This walleye fishing technique involves using the kicker motor to slowly push the boat backward, allowing for precise speed control in wind or current. The kicker’s low power output makes it ideal for this application.

Position Holding
In moderate conditions, you can use the kicker to maintain position over a specific spot by occasionally bumping the motor into gear against wind or current. This is more fuel-efficient than using a bow-mounted trolling motor for extended periods.

Dock-Side Finesse
When approaching a dock, using the kicker instead of the main engine allows for more precise movements. The lower thrust output means smaller adjustments and less dramatic boat movement.

Maintenance Checklist for Longevity

Proper maintenance ensures your kicker motor remains reliable when you need it most:

After Each Saltwater Use: Flush with fresh water using earmuffs or a flushing port
Regular Lubrication: Grease all fittings, including steering pivot points and mounting bracket mechanisms
Fuel System Care: Use fuel stabilizer if the motor will sit for more than a month, and consider installing a water-separating fuel filter
Off-Season Storage: Fog the cylinders, change the lower unit oil, and disconnect the battery
Propeller Inspection: Regularly check for nicks or damage that can cause vibration and reduced efficiency

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Size Kicker Motor Do I Need for a 20-Foot Boat?

Typically a 9.9 HP motor is the standard and most versatile choice for a boat of this size. It provides adequate power for trolling in various conditions and sufficient get-home capability. For lighter 20-foot boats or those primarily used in calm inland waters, an 8 HP might suffice, while heavier boats or those used in strong currents might benefit from a 15 HP.

Can a Kicker Motor Charge My Boat’s Battery?

Many modern kicker motors with electric start have an alternator and can provide a small charge, but it should not be relied upon as a primary charging source. Most kicker motors output only 4-10 amps at trolling RPM—enough to offset the ignition system’s draw with a slight surplus, but insufficient to recharge significantly depleted batteries.

Is It Difficult to Install a Kicker Motor Myself?

While a transom mount can be a DIY project for a confident boater, tasks involving steering linkages and fuel systems are best left to a professional marine technician to ensure safety and reliability. Proper mounting requires careful measurement and understanding of transom strength, while fuel and electrical connections must meet marine safety standards.

What Is the Main Advantage of a 4-Stroke Kicker Over a 2-Stroke?

4-stroke engines are typically quieter, more fuel-efficient, and do not require you to mix oil with gasoline, making them the preferred choice for most boaters today. They also produce fewer emissions. While modern direct-injection 2-strokes have closed much of the efficiency gap, 4-strokes remain the dominant technology in the kicker motor market due to their smooth, quiet operation ideal for trolling.

Conclusion & Call to Action

A kicker boat motor represents one of the most valuable investments a serious boater or angler can make. Beyond the obvious fishing benefits of precise trolling control, the safety redundancy provides peace of mind that’s simply priceless when you’re miles from shore. The enhanced maneuverability and potential fuel savings when trolling are additional benefits that compound over time.

Whether you’re a tournament angler seeking every competitive advantage or a family boater who values safety above all else, a properly selected and installed kicker motor will deliver returns for years to come.

Ready to find the perfect kicker motor for your boat? Explore our recommended models and buyer’s checklist at https://hidea-outboardmotor.com/kicker-motor-buying-guide or consult with a marine expert at your local dealership to get your questions answered. Your future self—whether facing a dead main engine or a perfect trolling bite—will thank you for making the investment.