Larrys Fishing Adventures

The more things change the more they stay the same. Or so they say.

My very first time in a canoe was in a 12 foot Sportspal .

We had that canoe for about 8 years or so. From the time I was about 12 years old until I was 20 it was the only canoe . It leaked and 'oil canned' badly but it weighed only 35 lbs and could be rowed or paddled and was the perfect canoe to start me off exploring the lakes in and around South River near entrance # 3 to Algonquin Park. I rowed that canoe by myself into Lost Dog lake several times.

Once , the wind and waves were so bad on Kawawaymog ( Round lake by the locals) that there were about 20 canoes piled up at amable du fond waiting for the wind to subside before daring to venture forth onto the lake. A very few experienced paddlers were making the attempt against 2-3 foot swells .

And then here comes a lone paddler in a 12 foot sportspal calmly surfing the waves across the lake using both paddles in the oarlocks as rudders. Wasnt a problem at all for me and got a big kick out of the incredulous looks I got from the paddlers who were making very little headway against the wind.

Fast forward 30 years .....

So after watching my kevlar canoe slowly getting beaten up by the rocky shores in Temagami....I have sold it and ordered a new custom Sportspal .

A lot of improvements from 25 years ago. 14 foot square stern so I can put my Honda 2 horse easily on the back and at 44 lbs with an 850 lb payload this canoe should fit the bill perfectly for my particular needs.

First trip will be in August of this year. Just me and my wolf-dog , 'Gordy'. Watch for pictures and a trip log.

Larry.