Mine is great in the water. Steers around without any problem in anything up to light chop.

Like with all small birds lighter is better. I use all micro stuff in mine and old style Norvel Big Mig .061 for power. AUW is 18.3 ounces. 25% to 30% nitro fuel.

Right now I have a Cox gray 6x3 but I don't think it's the best prop. Still trying different ones.

Hand launch is no problem, though it's more fun to ROW, ROS (snow) or ROWG (wet grass).

Check the 1/2A section for more on tips for this size bird and small engines.