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I have searched and can't seem to come to a conclusion on how to improve the performance I am trying to achieve.
2000 Outrage 18, 225 Optimax with the Mirage Plus 15.5 x 17 prop with solid plugs in the ventilation holes. I installed trim tabs and had (have) an aluminum Whale Tail XL stabilizer installed. My top RPM is about 5600 and max speed (depending on loading) is about 48mph. The 225 is more power than needed and if I jam the throttle, it practically jumps out of the water so plaining time or hole shot is a non-issue. Going fast at times is fun but I could care less if I lose a little top end speed.
The prop and performance in mid to calm conditions is excellent. I have had this boat for 8 years and do a lot of fishing on Lake Erie where conditions are often quite snotty. When the chop really picks up, I have to keep searching for "just on plane" speed which is about 18-20mph but when I get over the hump, the boat wants to go to the sweet spot at about 27+ mph which is often just too damn fast for conditions. I have to keep tweaking the throttle and then end up dropping off plane having to start all over again. The rpm seems to "surge" depending on how much forward pressure I am getting from waves. Motor is an excellent running motor and I believe this is all prop related. I do trim the motor and trim tabs to enhance the ride for the conditions as needed (always).
Here's my question. Would switching to a 15 x 15 4 blade prop give me more stability and lift with the ability to keep speed more consistent (I'm shooting for about 20-22mph)? I am looking at the 15x15 Hustler 4 blade and think this might be a good option. I can always put the Mirage plus on when in smaller lakes if I choose to. I also think I should be able to get rid of the Whale Tail without loss of plaining or control since I did install trim tabs. Motor is mounted 2nd hole from the bottom so motor height has been optimized.
