Thread: Canoe stability

You could put homemade outriggers on to keep more stable

Depends on the model. But a general comparison between solo canoe vs solo kayak---kayaks tend to be more stable, as you are sitting closer to the water, however canoes are much drier. But it again it depends on the specific model. Width and waterline length play a role but so does any curvature of the bottom (tumblehome or skegs)

I paddled and fished out of canoes for 20 years before buying my first kayak and I will not go back. The stability has a lot to do with the hull design. The rounded bottoms on most of the canoes I have paddled did not have the stability of the kayaks I like to paddle. My first kayak was a Wilderness Systems Ride 135 (bought on the recommendation of members of this forum). The 135 was very stable and fast a great kayak to fish out of. I also picked up a Nucanoe shortly after and it was a super stable and good fishing platform, both were more stable than the canoes I have paddled. The only problem with these kayaks was their weight. I now paddle a Native Ultimate which is a sit in very much like a canoe but with a pontoon shape hull and to me better stability than a canoe and much lighter than my other kayaks. The Native Ultimate was also recommended by a member here on the forum, he actually let me paddle his one day to see if I liked it. So my opinion is that the right kayak can be more comfortable and more stable than any canoe I have ever paddled.....and I think I have paddled some pretty good canoes. Good luck hope my opinion helps. Paddle everything you can and make up your own mind is always the best advice.

I currently have a Wilderness Ride 115 that I enjoy fishing from and don't plan on giving up fishing from this kayak. I also have a 16 foot crestline with a gas motor. Guess I just enjoy fishing. I have been looking at a Sports Pal canoe which has a flat bottom for stability and appears to be constructed very well. Maybe my question should have been directed just to the Sports Pal canoe.

Thanks, Pop

If you're looking for stability, check this out:



All it is, is a pool noodle slipped over bent conduit, screwed to the gunnel.



The below picture is from many many years ago. with this canoe I remember being able to get into the canoe from the water on the side very easy, it was so stable. This canoe had extra large noodles!



On the above, I did not screw anything to the canoe. I just wrapped bungee cords around the cross members, and the bent conduit. In this case I connected both sides together as you see pictured.

That’s easy and smart. I like it

That’s pretty awesome!

Pop,
I think you have an excellent kayak in the Ride 115, but it never hurts to have another kayak, canoe or boat. Best thing is find someone with a Sport Pal that they will let you paddle if possible.