Do I really need a kicker for musky fishing?

Not required, but highly recommended for serious trolling. A kicker gives precise low speeds, saves main motor hours, and is more fuel efficient during extended trolling sessions.

What about running rivers for musky?

Rivers require adequate power to handle current. We recommend at least 115HP for the Trent system. More power provides safety margin when water is high.

Tiller or remote for musky fishing?

Most serious musky anglers prefer remote. Boats are larger, and helm position gives better visibility for spotting fish. Kicker can be tiller for trolling control.

How important is Command Thrust for musky?

Less critical than for walleye. Musky areas typically have adequate depth. Standard lower unit works well. That said, Command Thrust doesn't hurt.

Best Motors for Musky Fishing in the Kawarthas: Local Expert Guide

Last reviewed: 2026-05-07 > Quick answer: For musky in the Kawarthas, most anglers run a Mercury 90-150 FourStroke main with a 9.9 ProKicker for slow trolling big baits. Boat-control beats top speed on Stoney, Buckhorn, and Pigeon. Stay inside the capacity plate. We package...

Mercury Platinum Dealer·Family-owned since 1947·Mercury dealer since 1965·Gores Landing, ON·Quote builder available

Last reviewed: 2026-05-07

Quick answer: For musky in the Kawarthas, most anglers run a Mercury 90-150 FourStroke main with a 9.9 ProKicker for slow trolling big baits. Boat-control beats top speed on Stoney, Buckhorn, and Pigeon. Stay inside the capacity plate. We package main-plus-kicker setups regularly, quote at mercuryrepower.ca.

Musky Fishing in the Kawarthas: Motor Selection Guide

Chasing muskies demands a capable boat and the right motor. Here's what Kawartha musky hunters need.

Musky Boat Requirements

Typical Musky Boat:

18-21 feet
Deep-V hull
Stable casting platform
Rod storage
Net storage
Serious trolling capability

Power Recommendations

18ft Musky Boats:

Mercury 115-150HP FourStroke
Handles Kawartha conditions well
Adequate for trolling and running

19-21ft Musky Boats:

Mercury 150-200HP FourStroke
Better rough water capability
Power for long runs

Dedicated Musky Rigs (21ft+):

Mercury 200-250HP
Often run bow trolling motor
May add kicker

Why Power Matters for Musky

Long Runs: Musky spots are scattered. Adequate power means:

Cover more water
Reach distant spots efficiently
Work through river systems

Rough Conditions: Fall musky = rough water:

Need power to handle waves
Safety margin in weather
Confidence when conditions deteriorate

Trolling Demands: Big baits require:

Precise speed control
Ability to adjust for current
Long hours of motor operation

The Kicker Question

You can build a live CAD quote for your repower online at Mercury Repower Centre.

Many musky anglers add a kicker motor:

Benefits:

Precise trolling speeds
Saves main motor hours
Better fuel efficiency trolling
Quiet approach

Popular Kickers:

Mercury 9.9HP Pro Kicker
Mercury 15HP
Mercury 20HP

Musky fishing guide for the Kawarthas

Trolling Motor Integration

Bow-mounted electric trolling motors:

Spot Lock for positioning
Quiet approach to structure
Hands-free operation while fishing

Pair with main motor for complete musky setup.

Our Kawartha Musky Setup Recommendation

Boat: 19-20ft Deep-V Main Motor: Mercury 150HP FourStroke Kicker: Mercury 9.9HP Pro Kicker Trolling Motor: Bow-mount with Spot Lock

This covers all musky fishing scenarios in the Kawarthas.

Build Your Musky Motor Setup

Related guides

Best Mercury Outboard for Rice Lake, Ontario (in the Kawarthas) Fishing: Local Expert's Guide, best Mercury for Rice Lake fishing
Best Mercury Outboard for Lake Simcoe Walleye Fishing. Lake Simcoe walleye picks
Best Mercury Outboard for Lake Ontario Salmon & Trout Fishing. Lake Ontario salmon and trout setups
The Secret Weapon Rice Lake Anglers Swear By: Mercury ProKicker Guide. Pro Kicker on Rice Lake

Ready to price it out? Build a live CAD quote for your repower online at the Mercury Repower Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a kicker for musky fishing?: Not required, but highly recommended for serious trolling. A kicker gives precise low speeds, saves main motor hours, and is more fuel efficient during extended trolling sessions.
What about running rivers for musky?: Rivers require adequate power to handle current. We recommend at least 115HP for the Trent system. More power provides safety margin when water is high.
Tiller or remote for musky fishing?: Most serious musky anglers prefer remote. Boats are larger, and helm position gives better visibility for spotting fish. Kicker can be tiller for trolling control.
How important is Command Thrust for musky?: Less critical than for walleye. Musky areas typically have adequate depth. Standard lower unit works well. That said, Command Thrust doesn't hurt.

Harris Boat Works · 5369 Harris Boat Works Rd, Gores Landing, ON · (905) 342-2153

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