Posted by Richard Simpson on 29/07/2021 10:27:24:
I was actually thinking of a cone shape along these lines. The curved plate you show will only direct water downwards, so you are getting limited effect and it will not help forwards flow in any way.
A cone will help water flow in both directions and will direct astern flow all around the prop.

I would try turning down a piece of broom handle to a cone, drill a hole through it of shaft diameter, remove the prop and slide it on. If it has the desired effect you can make it permanent.
Edited By Richard Simpson on 29/07/2021 10:31:59
Ok so i'd already taken the bull by the horns before i read this reply Richard(i'm self isolating so needed something to occupy my mind). I have stripped out the shafts and removed what was the rudder mounts. I've mocked up what i was considering .

and

The inspiration was taken from my baitboat mk 3 as below.

This worked really well on the mk3 with no issues going forwards or backwards. No issues with the MK4 going forwards.