Will a 22hp long tail be enough motor for 16x54 flat bottom 14 to 15 inch transom? Just don't want to spend the money if it's not enough. Usually have three guys and gear. If anyone has any thoughts that would be great. I tried posting once and didn't see it go through.

Bryce is right. that isn't enough motor to step that kind of load. I would either go with a big block or downsize your boat and tell the least favorite of your hunting crew to get his own rig haha

what about a 1648 and the old riveted style thinner grade aluminum? If not I'll say screw it until I can afford a big one. Thanks for your input I'm new to mud motors and want to get a handle on them. Thanks again

It will get you there, gonna be slow though. I have a 1648 riveted MV, with a 16hp GDLT. I get around 11mph with 3 guys frog gigging. Sometimes in the short run it makes sense to buy something that's not ideal to get you back on the water, but if you wait and save up more you'll get something that lasts longer and will suit your needs better.

You mentioned that you are new to MMs, they (especially LTs) don't compare HP wise with outboards. Generally speaking you should aim for the biggest HP you can afford, that's still safe on your hull. If you buy used, make sure the kill switch is functional.

Keep in mind that the mud motor market doesn't have very much depreciation. Atleast on here it doesnt You can get a rig and sell it for near what you bought it.

It's simple. get a mud motor. shoot ducks in the face.