Re: how shallow can I get
Running on plane when I had the old Merc V6 on the back, near WOT and about 50 mph, trimmed all the way up to the point of ventilation, I have run through known 16 inches of salt water in the Salt River with my 20' Seafari. Likewise, trying the same stunt half an hour later, when the river was lower by 2-3 inches saw me chip my skeg on that very same rock shelf.
At rest or idle, my hull currently draws a measured 14" in fresh water and 13" in salt water. So I figure I need 18" minimum depth.
(Remember that idling with the motor trimmed up produces downward thrust at the transom at the same time it produces forward thrust to the boat)
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Common Sense is learning from your mistakes. Wisdom is learning from the other guy's mistakes.
Fr. Frank says:
Jesus liked fishing, too. He even walked on water to get to the boat!
Currently without a SeaCraft 
(2) Pompano 12' fishing kayaks
'73 Cobia 18' prototype "Casting Skiff", 70hp Mercury
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