I downsized to the “deep” version of the 14’ Silverstreak open boat and went with max rating 30hp. A deeper and heavier boat than the Smokercraft but it certainly isn’t overpowered when two big guys, riggers, cannonballs, cooler and gear are loaded up. It would probably be fine on small to medium lakes with as little as 20hp on it, but not for the big lakes like Shu and Adams or the salt. With the 30, and care and attention to load/weight distribution, no problems getting on step and have a 2-person/fully loaded WOT pushing 30mph (I can get bit over if “bare bones” and flat water).
I think one of the the key considerations with these smaller, open boats is ability to get on plane reasonably quickly and the ability to stay on plane w/o too much throttle. My father is a VERY large man who had a 14’ Lund SSV w/ 20hp he used almost daily on Sheridan Lake for years. With his 300++ lbs at the stern getting on step was a chore for that engine until he put hydrofoils on the leg. After that, he had no probs getting on step and staying there w/ 20hp. Anyway, something to consider if you want to stay below max hp.
Cheers!
Ukee