Deciding which canoe

[Canoewiia]

Hi everyone. I am looking to buy a kevlar/carbon canoe for fishing and easy paddling on ponds and small lakes. No stream/river or large lake use. I estimate it will be used 90% solo but may have an occasional person. I'm not new to canoes as I had a 16'6" BlueWater kevlar canoe for many years. I am new, however, to the concept of using a double-blade paddle rather than a single one, should that be the course I take. I prefer a canoe no longer than 14' and the weight less than 30lbs.

I'm open to a recommendation of any company although Slipstream and Hornbeck immediately come to mind as they are located in my region. I've never paddled from a position low in a canoe so that concept has been a challenge in determining which canoe is right or wrong. My back isn't what it used to be so I'm thinking of an elevated seating position of some degree.

I've also see some companies that use vacuum infusion either in all their models or as an add-on feature. It comes as a cost of $400-$600+ which is either built-in or added on the total cost. Not sure if there is a tangible benefit to me other than a slight reduction in weight. If not, I likely wouldn't choose one that used the VIP.

Any words of wisdom and direction would be greatly appreciated. I am a clean slate and willing to look at any company and model although I'm looking for a really-nice Toyota rather than a Formula One Ferrari.

 

[dutchlennart]

hi Canoewiia,
A lot depends on youur size and your companion. if hormbeck is closeby , I would go there for a testpaddle. they like sitting low and doubleblading. over here the waters are to big and windy to enjoy most of their boats. I doulbeblade in a kayak or surfski on big open waters/sea. I singleblade in most other environments.
lookingforwrd in reading what others will advise and what you will choose. and of course tripreports with the new canoe.