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Ultralight boats!
Choosing The Right Canoe - Recreational Hulls
Following up on my last article, this month I would like to discuss
in more detail what I consider "Recreational Canoes." These
designs are very user friendly and were created for casual paddling, with
the sportsman in mind. Their main purpose is to provide a stable platform
to work from, whether it be fishing, hunting, or simply taking in the
sights. The wide, relatively flat bottom profile common to most of them
offers great initial stability and a shallow draft. (I have seen them
as wide as 40") They require only a few inches of water to float.
This gives the occupants a sense of security similar to that of a row
boat while still maintaining the ambience of a canoe.
It does not take a great deal of skill to paddle one. When you combine
the stability with a relatively short length and a few inches of rocker
you have a very maneuverable craft.(lengths range from 12' - 15')
Considering they are most often paddled on calm, protected waters, it
is not surprising that even the most novice paddlers will feel comfortable
in one. The hull configuration is symmetrical. This puts a limit on its
high end performance but on the other hand gives it a classic shape and
allows it to be paddled efficiently in either direction.
These canoes can be made from a variety of materials. However most often
you will see them in either low end fiberglass, aluminum, or polyethylene.
These are all rugged, low cost materials. They tend to be heavy, but weight
is not normally a major concern as most of the paddling is done where
you can drive right to the put in. If you wish to have an ultra-light
model, they can be had, just be prepared to pay at least double the cost
of the standard lay-up.
If your style is casual paddling at a relaxed pace, maybe you even prefer
to drift, then consider a recreational design. If you want more performance
than this from your canoe then tune in next month when we will look at
touring canoes.
Until next time Happy Paddling.
Have a question? I'm happy to answer it - just email me at hpcanoes@gmail.com
hpcanoes@gmail.com
603.667.5112
We specialize in ultralight solutions and offer expertise in canoes and Wee Lassie boats, as well as all the related equipment. Our favorites are Wenonah canoes and Wee Lassie boats. Although we will work with any material we like to get folks set up with lightweight canoes so you can dedicate your time to the joy of being out on the lakes and rivers instead of struggling to move your boat between car and water.
Scott Edwards, "Hemlock Pete" himself, offers you decades of paddling expertise. He is friendly, down-to-earth, and provides superior customer service. You won't find a better, or more pleasant, deal elsewhere.