Entry Level WW Canoe - Bell Prodigy X; Mohawk XL 13, etc

[martinm]

I'm interested in getting into WW canoes. I've participated as a newbie in the WW school in 2007, paddling a kayak (Riot Magnum). I've been canoeing the Buffalo and similar rivers for about 35 years or so. But... having been bitten by the "get another boat" bug, I'm considering a WW canoe in the 13 foot range. Any suggestions between the Prodigy X or Mohawk XL 13, or something else?

I've got a Bell Alaskan, and out of all the canoes I've owned over the years, it is definitely the best for an all around, well built cargo boat for Class I type rivers, so I'm partial to Bells.

Martin

[Steve S]

The Shepherd family owns both a Bell Prodigy and a Mohawk XL13. The Bell Prodigy X is basically a slightly larger Prodigy for paddlers over 175 lbs.

The XL13 is excellent for learning how to handle an open boat in whitewater. It is slightly wider than the Prodigy X and has slightly less rocker. The XL13 is approximately 5 lbs heavier because it has a marginally thicker hull.

So if you are going to paddle an open boat 6 to 8 times a year in whitewater, the XL13 would be a good choice. If you are really going to get into it (10+ times a year), consider the Bell Prodigy X. You may take a few more swims early on, but you may not be looking for your next open boat quite as soon.

If cost is a consideration, you can get a fully outfitted XL13 from the factory in Ft. Smith for a great deal less than a Prodigy X.

[Randy Dodson]

Martin, are you the guy that was paddlin the Bell Alaskan on Govt. Day? If so, I think you'd have more fun in the Prodigy X or even a Prodigy.

Another boat you might be interested in trying is the Esquif Vertige. A hotter design in the 13' category would be the Esquif Blast. Arthur Bowie has one and will probably have it at Rendezvous if you want to try it out.

[martinm]

Thanks ya'll. I'm right at 175 to 180 so the X should work. I can get a pretty good deal on one at present, for about the same as the XL 13 if I drive to FS.

Yes, I was the fellow in the Alaskan, that is one reason I'm leaning towards a Bell.

Thanks again for the info

Martin

[Jim Krueger]

Martin also has a secret desire for another Overflow X Kayak if you guys find one in good shape laying around somewhere

Best Regards
Jim Moose

[Steve S]

Here is a great shot of a Prodigy X in action.

http://www.paddling.net/photography/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;