Different canoes for different jobs. A big heavy wide beam for the lakes.
Something narrower and lighter for the rivers. My uncle and I had a blast
many years ago with a refinished wood/glass Oldtown that we strip,
reglassed, and blue printed. Yes, that right. After we were down we fine
finished the hull with fill and removal of material to get a perfect hull.
Without much effort we had the fastest canoe on some of the popular canoeing
rivers, but it was narrower than I would want to use anyplace where wind can
makes some waves.

I have a Sears wide beam now that my Dad gave me. 16' square back (profile
of an 18'+ canoe) that does ok on lakes, but its way to cumbersome for any
kind of semi serious river running. Even then I managed to dump myself out
of it once.

One thing to bear in mind is how much real world help the kids will be in
handling the canoe. Mine like to paddle, but they don't really do anything.
When using paddles I pretty much plan on having to correct for whatever they
are doing, and control the canoe. Of course on long straight runs I let
them both paddle to their hearts content while I sit in t he back and use my
paddle as a rudder.

I'ld personally be more inclined to look for a nice stable row boat or jon
boat if allowed at all or a drift boat for the rivers.

Bob La Londe
www.YumaBassMan.com



wrote in message
ups.com...
My kids are finally old enough and are showing an interest in fishing.
We have a bunch of canoe only lakes around and the fox and illinois
river are accessible. What type of canoe would people recommend? It
has to be lite enough to allow me to go out by myself. It will also see
duty with possibly 3 guys 200lbs-230lbs (if we fit), 2 adults and 2
kids {the kids are under 8 years old). I would have to value
stability, do not want to be dunkin the kids. At some point in the
future will probably opt to get an electronic trolling motor. Well
what do you use or recommend?