[McGillicuddy]

I think Fr. Frank and Bushwacker are steering you right with a DFI 2 stroke. The E-tec 90 is about 335 lbs in the 25" shaft. That will be the lightest, most reliable, quietest option out there. I'm seeing new old stock for about $6500 w/3yr warranty. As far as fuel economy it is probably second only to Fr. Franks Optimax 90 but 40 or 50 lbs lighter. Since you are re-doing the transom, definitely raise it and go with the 25" shaft. I have an old 115 Merc on my Seafari and am pleased with the performance, but desire more economy.

In my mind the ideal motor is a 115 - 130 hp E-tec or Opti that weighs 50 lbs less than they actually do.

You will still get wet feet when you stand in a corner pulling on a fish but plugs or the "vortex" will solve that.

Scrap the kicker - you won't need it with the E-tec. They'll idle at 500 rpm and probably get 7-8 mpg at that operation.

Unless you opt for a much heavier motor, scrap the bracket idea. I don't think it benefits you in your stated application.

If you're really set on a 4-stoke, the Mercury 115 4-stroke is only 400lbs but I think It will leave you wanting on the holeshot and not really have any advantages over the dfis.
just my .02

Good luck with your decision.