Advice For A Fishing Canoe

[BadKarma]

I'm thinking of getting a canoe just to float fish these Ozarks streams and creeks.

This will be solo and must be comfortable. And I am talking flyfishing also.

Thanks

Karma

[soggyfeet]

If you will be solo all the time you might want to look at kayaks. They are easy to manuver and now I think they have models that are stable enough to stand on. I'm thinking of getting a sit on top model. I have a 17' whitewater canoe but I dont think I would try it by myself its just to much work.

[Gavin]

I have a Wenonah Vagabond solo that I like a lot. Its to wobbly to stand and fly cast out of, but its been great for park & wade fishing on most ozark streams. Its almost as fast as a kayak, lighter, and holds more gear..Less stable though and probably not a boat for a big guy...Works for me, but I'm only 5'11" 175. Used to have an OT Pack Solo...glad I got rid of for the Vagabond. Cheers.

[superfly]

Check Out Nucanoe.com or stop by the marine repair center in springfield they are a dealer. Great fishing boat!

[Wayne SW/MO]

The Vagabond would be a good choice. I have a 13' Mohawk Solo that I would also recommend. The Pack has its followers and I'm told can be improved by lowering the seats. Kayaks are cheaper and easy to fish out of, but they can be a bear to get out of or to protect long rods and not my choice for fly fishing.

You might also look at the Arkansas built Buffalo, they had a solo at one time, a net search would help you.

[BadKarma]

Thanks everyone for the replies.

Wayne, I really like the looks of that Buffalo 10'. Gonna contact them for pricing.

I've decided that I want to stay away from the kayaks. because of the cargo aspect and because I'm prone to tipping!!!!

Thanks again

Lee

[ness]

I'd agree with your logic on canoe v. kayak. Each have their benefits, but from what you're saying canoe fits right.

One thing to consider: If you're sure you'll always be solo - be sure consider a solo canoe rather than a tandem. Sitting in the middle means it's balanced better, handles much better and you have the opportunity to stow stuff both in front and behind you, which makes more things more accessible.

I've got a We-no-nah Solo Plus, which is a 16-1/2 foot model that has three seats and works as a solo or tandem. Like many things that are all-in-one, neither one works as good as the specialized version does. It is a very good (though long) solo, but loses stability with two people. And I just wouldn't put anybody in front over about 175.

[Wayne SW/MO]

Be sure and ask them about a second. Buffalo is close enough to pick up and save any shipping.

[Zack Hoyt]

How about a pontoon?? I know a fella or two who have killer deals on them. I have been a kayaker for years, but am really warming up to my pontoon. Just a thought. Feel free to pm me or give me a ring if you have any questions.

[Wayne SW/MO]

I would question the use of a pontoon on Ozark flows. I've had them from 8' to 16' and they have their place, but I don't think the Ozarks is the place for them, not if you explore.

I might add that the 10' Buffalo is probably a poor choice for upstream travel. My 13' has no keel and some rocker and it walks a lot when paddling upstream. The other side is its quicker than a cat in a rock garden.