Kayak vs. Canoe

[CrnCnn]

So I was sportsmans today and was checking out the Kayaks and canoes and wonder, really what’s the difference besides the obvious. I am interested in getting into it but not sure if my wife would be as well so I would probly look at a Kayak. On the other hand if she is only interested in the occasional trip with me how hard is a canoe to deal with all on your own.

Anyone into these activities want to give some opinions? I know its kind of a dumb question but I can’t just buy a 300-1200 dollar recreational device and not like it. I may have the chance to take out Bart’s canoe this spring and see what I think.

[tomdietrying]

I've got both. I guess I've had both about 15 years. I can honestly say the last couple of years I've taken my canoe out twice and my kayak once. With that said if I didn't already own them, it may be better if I just rented them. I could try different styles and brands, and I wouldn't be out initial cost for them.

My daughter is 9 now, so hopefully we can start and get more use out of them in the near future.

Peace.
Tom
012009

[cyronman]

I've been interested in one or the other recently also and the way I figure for myself is:

kayak if for the ocean just to paddle around, ride some waves and what not.

Canoe if for rivers or lakes--calm fishing sessions or whatever or if you need to take a small amount of gear with you.

[rowhard]

Kind of depends what you want to do. Want to be like the frontier's men of past, exploring the nook and crannies of the local river, go for a canoe. Want to join the local brigade and drive around with a kayak that never see any water but looks cool sitting on top of your VX or what ever, then get a kayak. Want something that give you a real workout, something you can do indoors in the winter with a ergometer. Something that will give you a real workout that is non impact, then try a rowing shell, either scull or sweep. But I guess you can tell by my user name where my Sentiment lies.

[CrnCnn]

But I guess you can tell by my user name where my Sentiment lies.

I never looked at your name that way til now....HELLO

[CrnCnn]

So I should aim for a canoe it sounds like then. I was talking with the Reno crew tonight about it tonight and it sounds like that is the way to go. Less wet arse at least.

So how easy is it to handle a canoe alone?