Well, I wouldn't run the way you're planning without a "Bob's".
Outboards are awfully expensive, and even a brief period of improper
cooling might turn your new motor into slag. Don't forget to change your
impeller once a season, too. Running in those shallows means you'll be
sucking up sand.

Agreed - I had them install a water pressure gauge just for that
reason. I always changed the impeller, plugs and wheel bearings once a
year - even when only fishing offshore.