Arkansas Canoe Club Forums

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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