Rake is the degree that the blades slant forward or backwards in relation to the
hub. Rake can affect the flow of water through the propeller, and as implications
with respect to boat performance.
Aft Rake helps to trim the bow of the boat upwards, which often results in less
wetted surface area and therefore higher top end speed. Aft rake propellers also
typically “bite” better on ventilating type applications.
Forward, or negative rake, helps hold the bow of the boat down. This is more common
in workboat type applications.