shark. I would think 8hp would be more than enough. But if you plan on going with a bigger boat in the future think about the 9.9.
"Also what can anyone tell me about the Tohatsu motors? I know they are nissans with different stickers."
Not to be byas in any way but they are an excellent engine. In the early 80's when they first intuduced them in the states we sold a lot of them on the coast. I was one of the 1st dealers at that time. You have it a bit backwards. Tohatsu is the manufacturer. Nisson buys from them, as well as the smaller Mercs, and other major engine companies just different colors and decals.
If you can get a good deal. I wouldn't be afraid of them. A good share of the smaller engines as well as the kickers you guys run are made by Tohatsu with others paint and stickers on them.