Me and a buddy are looking into buying a duck hunting rig that will get us back into some shallow stuff on the marsh and possible down some rivers. Open to suggestions but im thinking we are gonna go with a 1648 flat bottom jon boat. It will mostly be just 2 people and gear but would like to be able to carry a third person occasionally. So my questions are, would a 1648 be the right size for what we are looking to do and if so, what size long tail motor do we need to get us moving. Not looking to win any races as most of our trips wont be far but would like to be able to ride nice with two people and gear over a little open water. Oh and just like everyone else these days the budget is a little tight with college and everything so recommendations on cheapest motor actually worth the money would be appreciated also. Thanks in advance

As usual..Long tail is cheaper, slower and more effort but for shorter distances, a good rig.
Surface drive: faster, more $$$, easier to drive.

I would not go less than a 25 on that

Ten-four. I've had a 1648 jon with a 27 HP LT since 2004. Two hunters no problem, three hunters real slow but it will get you there and back, use common sense, don't overload, watch the turns, wear your kill switch lanyard. Check out BackH20's product line!

A 1648 flat bottom rivited with 3 people and hunting gear will run 17/18 mph depending on size of guys with a 25 godevil longtail. I had this setup for years and it is a great combo. I currently run a 23 godevil and I like that much better because it is lighter and has a pull start and can also run without a battery, a feature that has saved a couple hunts this season alone. I suggest not buying an mv jon boat to run a longtail on, you will need at least a 27 for acceptable performance. Most are welded and much heavier. Make sure you will not be making contact with stumps, logs, pipes, etc. If that is the case keep saving and get a longtail boat like the godevil or gatortrax.
Good luck.