I’m going to be picking up a new 4hp outboard for my canoe for river trapping next spring. I’ve narrowed it down between the Honda & a Yamaha. Any one have any experience with either of these two? They’re pretty much identical but not too many people run outboards that small so I’m having trouble finding reviews .

Anything honda is well built and they stand behind it.

either one is a good choice

I would go with whichever on is lighter

At 15 to 20hp I’ve had both but prefer Yamaha. Both are good though.

Had a 4hp yamaha on a 12 ft pram for many years.....very reliable motor. I have a 30 honda on a small Lund....good luck with that one also. For a canoe, I think White17 hit the nail when he said look at the weight. Either brand is reliable

The Yamaha is the lighter one of the two and has more parts made out of stainless steel than the Honda. Not that it matters much, but the Yamaha is a little better on gas as well and parts are cheaper. Impellers and such its also easier to work on.

Black friday 100$ and expanded warranty
I have used an old 3 hp and that was perfect , looks like the 2.5 is close
haggle them if it is already in their show room and get the shipping cost taken off. another - 165$

Of the many outboards I have had, I am a Yamaha fan, more than any other make. I had a 4hp longshaft as a backup, and trolling motor on a 17' Crestliner. It was always first pull, even in zero degree weather. Extremely reliable, great on gas, easy maintenance.

I would choose the Yamaha over the Honda, all day, every day.