i say go for a 9.9hp. The extra power is always nice for getting to your spots quicker and if a storm or something rolls in you can get out of there in a hurry and be back on safe ground in no time. i have a 1999 evinrude 9.9hp and i love it. trolls wonderfully, very few problems(the problems i had were my own fault haha!) i picked mine up 2 years ago for $600 and it was spotless (cant say the same now being bounced around in the back of trucks and in boats) motors like to keep their value and its very hard to find a good deal on a newer motor but they are out there if your patient and keep your eyes peeled. i wouldnt go older then mid 80s either.