Re; 2001 Johnson 175 model# J175VLSI

Took my Cajun bass boat out for first time this year a couple of weeks ago. Motor runs great but throttle handle was very difficult to push down to get her going. Very stiff. Had to put a lot of effort into getting the throttle handle to go down and accelerate the boat. Tried her agian with same result. Do I need to get a new throttle cable? Or, does it just need some type of lubrication? Thanks!