Canoe vs Kayak

It must be a hundred years old question, but as I m new to this., pls give ur opinion on this...., i will be mainly going solo, with frequent portages on lakes and rivers, most trips are 2-3 nights out., In you choice, what would u pick, ie canoe, length, make etc...

Hi,

I have a Swift Osprey that I love canoeing in (expedition kevlar - I've made some big hits without deep gouging) - tracks well and is also pretty manuverable for rivers. It is 14.x feet long - good enogh for yourself and some gear. There is not room for 2 on this boat. Boats that can do both are usually too susceptable to wind and lack of manuverabilty when solo.

If you want to do a bit of both worlds - I've heard many people bring along a collapsible kayak paddle with this model for long stretches of flatwater. I have never tried it, as I exclusively run rivers - but even rivers can have long flat streches, so I plan on giving it a shot.

perhaps you should rent both and see what you like better....but don't comprimise once you have made your decision - go out and get some high quality gear.

I've only been paddling for a year, and i mainly paddle with a bunch of kayakers, but i'd have to say that i love my kayak. I have a wilderness systems pungo 120. Dynamite, super stable boat.

I am personally into kayaks, but for the type of paddling you are talking about a canoe would be better suited. Canoe's are generally lighter therefore easier to portage, and can carry more gear. I do a lot of the type of paddling you describe with my touring kayak up in the Adirondaks of NY. I am thinking of getting a canoe for those trips.