When Mercury introduced the Pro XS series of outboard motors to the market they were in instant hit. Already, it is the best-selling tournament fishing outboard in the world. I have been running the Mercury Pro XS 115 hp motor this season on the Bob Feil Boats and Motors Smokercraft 202, and am very pleased with its performance. This 2.1 liter engine is the lightest model available at only 363 pounds. I get up on plane quickly and easily and it cruises at over 30 miles mph with a boat full of people and a full tank of gas. The eight-valve, in-line four cylinder power plant is very fuel efficient, too, due to its computer controlled, multi-port electronic fuel injection. It runs on regular unleaded 87 octane fuel just fine. There are two features that are exclusive to the Pro XS 115. One is the option of two shaft lengths: 20 inches or 25 inches. Also, the Command Thrust model, compatible with Mercury’s larger-diameter propellers, helps quickly lift heavy boats onto plane and hold them there at lower speeds. Another feature I particularly appreciate is the Idle Charge. It monitors your battery’s voltage state, and will increase the engine rpm in order to provide up to 48 percent more battery charging at idle. This is important in our region when we are constantly running downriggers up and down to depths of over a hundred feet all day. The other very attractive feature of this motor is the price point. In many cases those who power their boat with the Pro XS 115 save enough to add a kicker motor. You can learn more about the Pro XS series by logging onto www.mercurymotors.com and you can find them locally at Bob Feil Boats and Motors in East Wenatchee.