I've got a 1985 15 hp Evinrude Longshaft on my 16 ft Lavro. The motor pushes it along fine. Even in some faster current. I use an extension handle with a knuckle on it so I can turn the boat easier and I'm more forward in the boat so the bow doesn't ride so high. I talked to a dealer that told me a new 10 hp has as much torque as my older 15. If you live around the Everett area go launch at Sultan and you can kind of see how your motor works in that run. It's pretty easy. Hope that helps .