I had a very similar issue with my 75hp Merc where it would run fine, then you shut down for a while and fish, and then it won't start again.

And then it will and you'll think everything is fine again.

Rinse and repeat.

Turned out to be a bad stator. BUT...this was on a 1996 motor. Probably failed due to age. Just another thing to think about. But I'd trust the guts of the previous guys before listening to me.

Oh and...Hogster's a helluva guy, even though he don't post no more!!