Performance mods for a 97 225 carb

I'm a rookie when it comes to performance mods. That said I just purchased a 97 225 hp, carb, 3.0L Merc and was wondering what could be done to get more power out of it without sacrificing too much reliability. I'm not looking to race, just want the most bang for the buck on the back of my Champion bass boat ( I know it's not a performance hull but it's what I've got to work with lol ). It is an offshore model, but I plan to replace the midsection, driveshaft and shift linkage to 20".

33cc heads will do the trick.

Again I know just enough about this stuff to be dangerous lol. Are those store bought, or do I have them milled to that? Thanks for the advice.

Give me a call I may have what u need.
504 494 1688
Marty

Some people I've talked to have suggested a performance exhaust tuner, power reeds, and milling the heads. Also is a high performance lower unit worth the expense?

I will thanks.