Frogwatch wrote:
Took the Tolman to Lake Iamonia near Tallahassee yesterday just to
explore its miles of "paths" through the lilypads. Obviously other
boats follow these paths because they are generally clear of weeds.
However, it is not good territory for the Tolman even though the boat
is built for extreme small draft. Repeatedly bogged down the motor
with balls of weeds on the prop and overheating.
So, what is the technique in places like this? Is it just not a good
place for a 90 hp motor? Unfortunately, I had locked the 9.8 kicker
in the "up" position and had forgotten to take its key so I could not
use it.
I really wanted to explore but was afraid of getting stuck and the
motor failing. Swimming or walking back is out of the question as
this place is gator paradise. Passed numerous gator wallows and saw
several gators from a distance.
So, are places like this only for john boats with tiny motors (OK,
airboats too)?

Minn Kota electric troller with weedless wedge prop. Don't go in the
weeds unprepared.
Air-cooled kicker with weed cutter prop is another option.
But they're noisy s hell, and disturb swamp serenity.
Your other option for the 90 hp is get a similar weed cutter prop for it
and rig a weed strainer for the cooling water inlet ports. That's a big
job and would only be done on a motor used primarily in the weeds at
slow speeds. Not practical otherwise.

Jim - Former swamper.