I'm looking for a used prop, or a suggestion of who might be able to help. My boat is a 21' Skeeter Baypro with a 200 Mariner. Prop is a 4 blade 25" Trophy, and is running 5200 rpms WOT @ 58-60mph gps, full load. It runs at a decent speed for a bay boat, but trolling is a pain. I can't really get it below 4mph unless I'm heading into the wind, and/or bumping the motor in and out of gear (which I do, but probably isn't good for the motor). I'd like to find someone that either has a prop they'd like to get rid of, or someone that sells reconditioned ones. What props are you guys running on similiar rigs? I've got to get the trolling speed down. I'm thinking a 23" 3 blade might be the trick. Anyone every use one of the "High Five" props by Mercury? I was told that prop provides good lift for summer tubing and skiing, but not sure it would do the trolling thing.

I had a similar problem. I didn't change my prop though. I trimmed my motor up as far as it was safe to do so. I also put my trim tabs all the way down and it takes me down about 1.5 mph per the gps to a troll speed of 2.4. Good luck.

Bass Pro over off I-85 had some Mercury SS 3-blade props for cheap a couple of weeks ago during their Bass Madness Sale. They were discontinued and you could tell they had been on the shelf for quite awhile, though they were still brand new. It would be worth a check as they were all Mercury Props and were priced at less than $100 I beleive it was.

Decreasing the prop pitch will also decrease the mph per rpm; if you go down in both diameter and pitch you wil see a difference-- but your speed at WOT will also take a big hit. ebay is a good source for used props.

Another way to drop your speed is to use a drift sock. some mechanics recommend this rather than using a 200hp motor for trolling, since these engines are not made for extended use at low rpm, and engine lugging can cause engine fouling.

I like to tear up props, so I get mine fixed or buy used ones at georgia precision propeller. They are in buford. I have purchased a couple of props for about $85. These rebuilt props tear up just as good as a brand new one!!! you can also use a drift sock to slow you down.

Chris, I have a 23 pitch 4 blade SS prop for a Merc if you want to try it and see what it would do for you. I'll probably be fishing out of Balus Friday. Shoot me an email if you want to try it. edchad@mindspring.com

I have a 23" x 3 blade stainless prop for Merc in great condition that I need to get rid of before my wife beats me over the head with it. Give me a call at 404-886-9693 if interested.