I'm looking for advice on a 1st time canoe purchase. I have only ever used aluminum and cheap, plastic (aka $150 Farm and Fleet specials) canoes. Most of the time it will be 2 people, but capacity for 3 people plus gear is ideal. I am in the process of planning a trip to the BW this summer, so the canoe will be used for that as well as exploring other lakes in northern WI, MN...maybe the occasional small river. I don't prefer the noise, weight of aluminum, and the carbon fiber options are way out of my price range. Durability is high on my list of priorities since I'd rather not have to baby the canoe (although I do take care of my gear). What are the best options in the sub-$1,000 category?

Googling resulted in way too many options. Any recommendations on brands, materials too look at would be appreciated!

Used royalex boats are typically sub $1000. They're not that heavy, durable, quiet when you're looking for wildlife or fishing and not as cold when it's cold or hot when it's hot. I've had good luck with watching the adds here on BWCAW.com and to a lesser extent Paddling.com and Craigslist. Something like a Bell Northwind, Bell Prospector, Wenonah Adirondack, Wenonah Spirit, Mad River Explorer, Nova Craft Prospector and Nova Craft Pal, and the Old Town Camper would be a few to look for.

The Craigslist in Madison and the Twin Cities usually have quite a few canoes. If possible, try a boat out before you buy. If you get a chance, places like Rutabaga in Madison have canoes to try out and may have a few used and/or discounted canoes too. Good luck!

Oh, forgot, here's some links. I also just noticed someone used one of MY PHOTOS on P.net in a "Looking for" add. If you post pics on websites, they're on the internet and fair game. I have had people use my photos as the canoe for sale and called the scammers out on it. On Craigslist only consider boats that have pics of the actual boat, ask the seller lots of questions and look at it in person.

BWCA Classifieds:
BWCA

Paddling.net:
P.net

Rutabaga:
Rutabaga

Madison Craigslist: Madison, WI

Twin Cities: Twin Cities

Great, thanks!

Consider renting what becomes your first choice for this summer's trip. If you like it, buy it when you see one for your price. If you do not like it, you just averted a mistake purchase.

I agree with the post suggesting a rental. You need to really test paddle a canoe to see if it fits you and your needs. There are so many options. Perhaps a used Kevlar Souris river 17 or Bell Northwind 17 would be a good bet, and if purchased from an outfitter you may find one for about $1500. Wenonah Spirit II’s are also good all around canoes. I also agree that royalex is a good hull material that if cared for can last a long time. Presently, I still have a MR Explorer in royalex I bought in 1992.

I was thinking the 16-18 ft range would be about the right size - big enough to carry people and gear while not being long and ungainly. Does that sound about right?

You will want to be 18 or 18+ if you will carry gear and three people. Longer is OK as it usually enhances straightness and glide (to a point). I tried four canoes before I made my purchase and ultimately bought a model that was not on my original list. Enjoy the process. I love my boat but there are many excellent models out there.

If you want to accommodate three people on occasion you will want to go with at least 18' of canoe if you are also planning on carrying any packs. I have an 18'6" Bell Northwoods canoe and it's a joy to paddle with two people and three packs, but we've also managed to carry a duffer and packs as well.

The Souris River Quetico 18 might be just right if you can get a used one at the end of the season. It’s not too long for a tandem but works well for three. I’ve used one for a ten day three person trip.