Sometimes you just need to get out on the water…alone. And while most people think kayaks are the only one person sports boat, canoes work great as well, especially if you’re looking to go out onto the water with your dog.
How to Choose a Canoe
Canoes are typically split into three specific styles of canoe. So, you’ll want to consider whether you’re looking for a recreational canoe, sporting canoe, or an expedition canoe. Recreational being cheapest and expedition being the most expensive on average.
You should also know that a number of different things can affect the quality of your next canoe. You’ll want to consider the shape, size, and design of the canoe. This may sound like a lot but we’re going to break it down for you because each of these features affects the overall performance of the canoe.
Length
First, let’s talk about the length of the canoe, the longer the canoe, the faster it can move on average. Also, longer canoes have better tracking and greater potential for carrying capacity, so if you need storage space for hunting or fishing supplies and a cooler you should take this into consideration. Comparatively, shorter canoes are typically more maneuverable and lighter in weight. This is great if you’re looking to buy a canoe for one person.
Depth
You’ll also want to consider the depth of the canoe. The depth affects the stability of the canoe and how hard it is to paddle. A canoe with a larger depth means that you will have a higher carrying capacity and better water‐shedding ability. However, deep canoes can be harder to handle in windy conditions and are also a little heavier on average. For a solo canoe, you should look for a design that blends together and is very lightweight. Remember, the shape of the bottom of the canoe and how it blends with the sides will influence its performance as well.
Straight vs Bent Canoe
Additionally, when considering the shape, you’ll want to consider whether the canoe bottom is straight or bent. If you’re a beginner canoeist you’ll want to get a bent-shaft. This is because “a bent‐shaft paddle is designed to relieve stress on the forearms and wrists by placing your wrists in a more natural position,” according to the Boy Scouts of America Canoeing Merit Badge Manual. While this is typically more comfortable and great for beginners, the professionals tend to like a canoe with a straight-shaft design. This is because users find that the straighter bend allows for wind compensation and makes it a little easier to maneuver in more intense weather or if you’re going to be using the canoe in the ocean rather than a lake.
Materials
But that’s not all. If you’re looking to become a professional, or just want to get the best solo canoe on the market, you’ll also want to consider what the canoe is made out of. Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to each material. The four most common materials are aluminum, polyethylene, composite and wood. According to the Boy Scouts of America, “Poly, or plastic, canoes are very popular with recreational users.” Aluminum tends to be a little heavier and wood canoes tend to be a little more expensive.
Our Top Picks
While there are a number of great canoes on the market, finding a solo canoe is a little more difficult. These are our top 3 canoe options for the solo canoeist.
Old Town Guide 147 Recreational Canoe
When it comes to solo canoes, Old Town is our top pick as far as brands go. They have taken over this niche in the market and do a great job making canoes that are easy to use alone. The Old Town Guide 147 Recreational Canoe is 14 feet 7 inches long and made of polyethylene. This boat also comes with backrests for additional support and comfort. It comes in at only 82 pounds and has a 900 pound capacity for you and your equipment. So, if you’re looking to carry loads of equipment this will be the best canoe for you. Although great for the solo canoeist, this canoe can also comfortably fit two people.
Pros
- Fair price
- Extremely durable
Cons
- On the heavy side as far as solo canoes go
- The short length makes it more difficult to turn
Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe
The Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman Canoe is great for someone looking for a speedy paddle boat. It comes in at 11 feet 9 inches and weighs 57 pounds. This makes it extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver with only one person. Because of its sleek design, this boat is considered a hybrid between a kayak and a canoe. If you’re a fisher or a hunter this is definitely the canoe for you. The boat is equipped with rod holders, fish finders, gun holders and anchor kits. In this canoe, you will enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. The boat is extremely roomy so you’ll have enough space for whatever you need. Just like the option above, this Old Town canoe also comes with a comfortable backrest.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Comes with fishing rod holders
Cons
- Some people dislike how wide the canoe is
- Not for long-distance canoeing
Sea Eagle TC16 Inflatable Travel Canoe
The Sea Eagle TC16 Inflatable Travel Canoe can easily fit right in your trunk! This inflatable canoe has the ability to deflate into a small bag that is 40 inches by 24 inches by 16 inches in size. It’s great for solo canoeing because it’s easy to carry and there’s no need to secure it to the top of your car. It’s extremely convenient and only takes 7-9 minutes to inflate. When inflated, the canoe turns out to be 16 feet long. Although this is an inflatable canoe, it is extremely durable for the design. Also, because it weighs less, it is easier for you to gain speed on the water. It comes with two chair seats with backrests that can move around the canoe, switching it from a one-person to two-person canoe in minutes. We also think this product is great because the walls are low, allowing for more comfortable paddling. Plus, this product comes with a repair kit just in case it gets a hole or scratch.
Pros
- Compact design
- Comes with carrying case and repair kit
Cons
- Will need to buy a separate electric pump
Conclusion
When it comes to solo canoes is all about the design, size, and weight. If you’re looking for something for one person you definitely want to make sure it’s lightweight and that you are able to transport the boat to and from the water by yourself. Also, make sure you get yourself a boat that has a seat with a back-rest because this will make your paddling experience significantly more comfortable and enjoyable.