Recent content by stevet

Canoedad, I actually began learning FreeStyle in a Curtis Nomad…a touring hull. It was comfortable at the rail and that heel was necessary to free the stern. As far as a “favorite” for heeling I don’t really have one. Most hulls can be heeled enough to make turning easier, which is the purpose...

The boat that will give you the most solid feel when at the rail is one that is constantly flared from the keel up to the rail a midships. Doesn’t seem like there’s a lot of those around these days. (Lotus Dandy and Egret/Cygnet are great examples of that) The next would be something like a...

For me, you bet😆

Always enjoy your posts. Even though I have no skill as a builder, I am a lover of wooden canvas canoes (owned a couple) and I’m very appreciative of the restorations you have done all along to keep some beauties floating. Paddle on in whatever way you choose even if it’s a rocking chair….never...

Once you’re comfortable with prying and on side side slips, try combining them to slip one direction and then slip the other direction before your momentum dies completely. It requires a fair amount of forward speed, but it’s lots of fun and visually interesting for observers.

My fave kind of water for paddling! Thanks.

I am loathe to try to change people’s personal preferences but consider using a kneeling pad before gluing anything in. It allows for easy positional change which can help with both comfort and technique performance….and you can sit on it during lunch stops 🙂

Great first solo…comfortable. Treat all wood on a boat. Enjoy!

Best compliment I can give is to say that it makes me want to go. Except for the portages.😄

14 series and later iPhones can use satellite connectivity when cell is not available. Don’t know about Android. https://support.apple.com/en-us/105097

Well said Marc

Eric made stunningly beautiful bent shaft S blades. Sold mine for a song to CEW years ago and even though I didn’t use it much have regrets… would love it if anyone has one, and would post a picture.

After many iterations over many years, I finally realized it’s best not to glue in the foam. There are several reasons you may need to replace it and it’s a lot easier to simply lift it out at the end of the day than to try to remove it once it’s glued down. There are several kinds of kneepads...

Looks like fun!

Even in summer the water is extremely cold and it’s a good idea to wear protection. But the beauty of the shoreline and Michigan UP is worth a trip.