Farmgirl
I have a open style moocher I use on the straits that is 14.5 ft long with 25hp &4.5 kicker. It is a touch small at times, so I have to watch the weather carefully. It is a awsome boat for close in fishing and the lakes. I see some real nice boats that are around 16 ft that still fish real nice for motor mooching.
When you start to get bigger than that the wind will push the boat and the size will make it less manuverable. Now if your a troller this is a mute point. Here is a link to my site that lists boats for sale. Lots to choose from. When hauling 4 people you will want at least a 50 hp or you will have trouble getting out of the hole. So my advise is to find a boat you can use a kicker on so gas isn't a big deal...And the big motor for getting you out of trouble if need be. Also be sure to look at the trailer....that can be a quick way to spend 1000 bucks if it is shot.
http://www.steelheader.net/boats/trader.htm

Tight Lines
Marty

------------------
Marty
www.steelheader.net
marty@steelheader.net