As a Michigan lakefront homeowner and avid fishing enthusiast, I've breathed in plenty of fumes from the older 2 stroke marine engines. Most of my youth was spent trolling for northern pike and lake trout. Many times I had to adjust my intended path because of fumes coming back into the boat. Sometimes, I simply sucked in the fumes trying not to breathe deeply.

When manufacturers finally started producing a cleaner burning 4 stroke engine, I was one of the first to change. Even then, fumes were noticeable at slow speeds. In April 2007, the Environmental Protection Agency issued its list of proposed changes to marine "spark engines" reducing pollution from these sources an additional 35 percent.

The use of an electric trolling motorwould also solve those issues for most boat owners. An electric motor allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the lake, while still making good headway thanks to the virtually silent electric motors. I'm currently between boats, and just starting my research after seeing an electric pontoon in action on my lake. The pontoon was large enough for 8 people, more than enough boat for most inland lakes. I'm also finding out that electric motors are bigger and more powerful than trolling motors. Some are permanently mounted through inboard shafts.

Solar recharging is an option for those either without power to their docks or wanting to save money on installation costs. Why, Costco now even has a 60 watt solar

Below is a list of electric boat manufacturers from hybrid electric/pedal kayaks to houseboats. There are even some hybrid manufacturers providing traditional engines as backup power. I am just starting my research into electric boats and do not recommend any specific manufacturer.

Bobcat Boats

Budsin Woodcraft Boats

Duffy Boats 

Electric Launch

Electra Craft 

Griffin Leisure Boats  (electric outboard motors) 

Nauticraft (electric/pedal hybrids) 

Solar Sailor  (Hybrid Houseboat) Australian made

Tamarack Lake Electric Boats 

Want to see more electric boats? Try visiting the Solar Splash Fayetteville AR  June 18-22 2008 

The Econogics website contains a list of small engines big polluters.

Please consider viewing the Laurence Technological University Solar Decathlon entry Open House September 21, 2007  More Information on 8 Day Open House

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