Posted earlier...what happened?

[McGillicuddy]

Sounds like a pita to remove the bracket to go up to accommodate a 25" shaft but if you've got the gumption, do it. But I'm guessing that if you have a flotation bracket, you will lose that quality by raising it. I believe a 25" shaft will require a different bracket. If it's not a flotation bracket that's too bad but it gives you flexability. Your motor is nearly 200 pounds more than the boat was designed for. That being said, I think all of these will help somewhat:

Big sternlifting prop maybe a 4 blade, like Powertech MQS3 or MQS 4
Big broad trim tabs
Hydrofoil
Move batteries forward
Move baitwell forward
Move riders forward
Get a spray dodger

Drag... keep us posted