Powering a 17 Ft Suncat

[Captain Rob]

I am an occasional sailor and an occasional fisherman. Last year I acquired a 17 Ft Suncat. My goal was to go out sailing when the wind is gentle and go out fishing the rest of the time. Since I am sailing in Palm Beach county where the gulfstream can come close to shore I have always been puzzeld about how much HP I needed to go against adverse conditions: wind , 6 knots current and 2 fishing buddies on board. I know you cannot exceed hull speed etc.. but I have not found yet a clear answer on how much HP I needed. Can someone help me with that.

Thanks