Wanting a new/used canoe.

[Bojib]

A couple years ago I got rid of my old Coleman 17 footer. I had picked it up several years ago at a yard sale dirt cheap, and used it for quite a while, but not too regularly.

It was heavy, hard to maneuver around, hard to load on the vehicle, all that fun stuff.

I would have gone out more, but it was tough to load on my on, and only occasionally could I find a friend to go along with me. Since I had such a hard time loading it and unloading it alone, it limited my use of it.

I really miss it though, and would like to get a new Canoe.

I'm hoping some of you can help me in my decision.

I mostly just stick to small lakes, and slow moving rivers when I'm out and about. I'll probably be going alone about 50% of the time, probably more. So, it needs to be something easy to load on a SUV, and easy to move maneuver around the water. I guess, it should be fairly light too, but I know that probably increases the costs quite a bit.

I can remember seeing models at one time a few years ago that had some small cooler storage, and fishing pole rests. If those are still available I'd still be interested in that.

As far as price, I'd like to stay less than $700 or so if possible, if not no more than double that.

Do any of you have any recommendations in brands or models that would be good for the type of canoeing I would be doing? Also, what are some good accessories that are must haves? I have a hitch on my Jeep GC, so I am thinking a hitch rack to assist in loading would be good, and maybe some type of wheel system to help move it about, but I'm not too sure whats good and what isn't there.

I think I actually have a back rest in a closet somewhere too, that I bought and never used, the type that attaches to the canoe seat.

Anyway, I would appreciate any opinions, thoughts, ideas. As you can tell, I kind of know what I'm looking for, I just don't know whats out there.

Canoeing isn't a big thing around here, so I don't have anyone local to ask and learn from.

[Lucy]

Honestly, you might consider trying a kayak. I have canoed and kayaked and all the problems you listed above are avoided with a kayak. Rent one if you can and give it a try.

[Bojib]

I've never tried a Kayak. Always wanted to, but never had the chance to.

I don't think there is anywhere local I can try one either, maybe I can find one this spring on a weekend trip.

[Newanderthal]

Old Town (oldtowncanoe.com) has some great canoes and kayaks and they have some priced for recreational paddlers.

For a canoe, either get the Guide 147 or the Pack. The Old Town Pack is a one man canoe that weighs 33 lbs. Great for you and your dog. The guide is a 2 seater. I have one and it's awesome.

If you want a kayak, check out the Vapor and the Heron. Both designed for fishing but work great for flat water lakes and gentle rivers and streams.

[EddieK47]

If your looking for something lite and very stable for fun and fishing look into a Sportspal canoe.I have a 14ft that weighs around 80 lbs.At 64 I have no trouble loading it on top of a car.They don't glide like a narrow canoe but the stability more than makes up for it. I have had people come up to me when I pulled into shore because they were amazed at how I could move around in it.

[Bojib]

Thanks for the suggestions. I've been checking on all of them.

I think I've decided to just stick with a canoe, and probably a two person one. Just in case there is a time that someone actually wants to go with me.

It's nice to have the winter season to make a decision, I have plenty of time to research and look.

[OldSole]

Yeah, a canoe would probably be better for what you need it for. I don't have one but I do have a john boat. I fish with it most often. I have a friend with a larger motor boat but we don't go out in it a lot. With the time I have available, it's just easier to grab the john boat and go.

[ppine]

Bojib,

A canoe is the gateway to peace and utter freedom (Col. Townsend Whelen). Now that you have had some experience with cheap canoes, do not buy another one. There are lots of used canoes around in good shape that will be much better than a new cheap canoe. Kayaks are popular because they are light, forgiving and most of all cheap. They are slow and don't maneuver well. Even for solo padding a 16 foot canoe is not too big. Then will have room for a friend, and camping equipment if you want to go over night. The longer the hull the greater the speed, and ability to deal with waves.

I like Bell, Wenona, Sawyer, Equip, and many other makers. Get the annual issue of Canoe and Kayak magazine that lists all of the current makers. I own a Bell Northwind 16 in Royalex, and an Old Town Guide 18 in red cedar and canvas.