Looking for canoe recommendation

[bababoris]

We are looking at doing some canoeing in Lacamas Lake this summer. Wife and I are in our 50s. Dont see us doing any extreme or aggressive canoeing. Just something that is easy to load and unload, easy to get into, steer, etc. Would appreciate any input or recommendation at which brands / models to consider. This will be our first-time purchasing cones so any and all feedback is welcomed. TIA!

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[Hop Sing]

In general, it's usually a good idea to buy an inexpensive canoe for your first go around until you learn what type of canoeing you really like doing. The reason for this is that really efficient canoes for long distance paddling will handle entirely differently than canoes made for smaller rivers or streams, and white water canoes are totally different than anything else.

You will find that canoes are made from various materials, such as wood, aluminum, roto-molded plastic, royalex, fiberglass, etc. Each has advantage and drawbacks such as noise or weight.

Unless you are going to trailer the canoe, it is important to buy something that you and your wife can load easily - canoes that are heavy tend to not get used very much.

Avoid aluminum or plastic paddles. In short, they suck. More or less a paddle should pretty much a chin length when you are standing but that may change depending on your paddling style and whether you paddle kneeling or sitting.

One last thing is make sure you like the seats. One hour on a seat that is uncomfortable, too hot, or hurts your back seems to last forever.

Anymore questions just ask away. I have put on a lot of miles in canoes so probably have seen the best and worst out there.

 

[RicInOR]

Do you already do this?


If not, rent and ensure you won't be killed by her for not paddling correctly. It is an accepted defense in all jurisdictions ;-)


Of course canoes are tippy. So make your peace with loosing all your FA this way.

 

[Hop Sing]

Do you already do this?


If not, rent and ensure you won't be killed by her for not paddling correctly. It is an accepted defense in all jurisdictions ;-)


Of course canoes are tippy. So make your peace with loosing all your FA this way.

Never has there been a more accurate post!

 

[bababoris]

We have canoed together. Once. And we are still married. The plan is definitely for each of us to have our own vessel