Is it the Fuel Filter?

Hello,

I took my boat out today and used the built-in Fuel tank for the first time (typically I used containers). It ran fine for about 2 minutes then the engine wouldn't turn over, I knew it was a gas issue because the engine sounded like it was out of gas, but the gas line was connected. I ended up using the containers to get going, and everything went fine.

Later while out in the water I hooked up the internal to the engine again... It ran great for about 15 minutes then did the same thing, as if the engine was out of gas. So I reconnected the containers for the rest of the trip.

I don't think the gas filter has been changed in ages, it's the one that was on when I bought the boat. Could this be the problem, and to change it do oyu simply screw (turn) it off and replace with new one, or does it involve taking the whole system down???

Thanks

V-20 200 Merc. (94)