My grandfather had a 16' lyman with a 50HP Evinrude with a 5 hp back-up that I started going out with him and my dad when I was about 5 years old. We fished all the way out to West Sister many days. My grandfather can't swim and he is 95 years old currently, so we all made it back each and every time.

Having said that, I look back and wonder what he and my father were thinking taking a 5 year old out in a 16'er that far... But also it can be done if you are very cautious and watch the weather.

I would recommend that you only consider it though when the water temp is warm enough to survive in the water for at least overnight. Being out right now can be very lonely and deadly if something happens. Make sure that you have a radio and if you go out try to find other boats in view.

-Matt