Had an interesting experience at the Delta Sunday. Nico and I went out with full gear, livewells empty. Took off in Franks with 1 foot chop and 68 deg water temp - running down wind. My boat has never run more than 69.9 with the Tempest prop I have on it and 2 guys in the boat.
We were half way across Franks and I looked at my GPS which read 71.4. Later in the day it hit 71.9 on calmer water with little wind.
My thought is that water temp and being at sea level caused the boat to run faster but I don't know? It was surprising to see a 2mph difference in speed. I'm still a total noob on boat performance and curious what your experiences have been.
#3775, "RE: Random boat performance factors?" In response to Reply # 0
Did you notice any RPM change? I also ran the fastest when I am on the Delta. Elevation, cool air temp and moisture in the air (humidity) all help make more horsepower. Slight chop also loosen up the haul, allowing it to lift more. It also helped when I was running with a strong current and with the wind at my back.
#3776, "RE: Random boat performance factors?" In response to Reply # 2
My boat also seems to work pretty well at the delta. Seems like the wind and a slight chop will allow your boat to lift better casuing a bit more speed as harry mentioned. Although I've been keeping mine around 4500 rpm to extend the life of the motor and save on gas.
Hey let that Bass go I wanna catch her some day http://www.calfishing.com/gallery/v/members/tmcustoms/