Single sided correction strokes - Does your paddle touch the hull?

[RickR]

I've gotten to know and become friends with some very experienced canoeists who have spent a lot of time in northern Canada with native people. They've told me that up there prying off of the gunnel is the norm. In terms of efficiency and conservation of energy it makes sense to me that this would be true. If you're living a subsistence life in the bush using skills passed down generation to generation, efficiency and conservation of energy would be paramount.

 

[memaquay]

If you guys haven't watched this yet, I urge you to do so. It is probably my favourite documentary, shot with a Cree group of families in the early 70's.
https://www.nfb.ca/film/cree_hunters/
If you just want to see the relevant canoe parts, they are at 11:53 and 16:45. These are people who grew up in canoes, their strokes are unique and efficient.