We will be renting from Sawbill this year. In the past we have always rented Souris River canoes. Sawbill does not list Souris River as an option.

Northstar Seliga or Wenonah Minnesota II. I am 6'-1", 220#, my brother is 5'-10", 160#. Which would you choose, and why?

What do you intend to do? Are you going for distance for a week or slow and fishing? If you are in no hurry I like the Seliga for it's stability, predictability, and classic lines. If you have miles to make, I would choose the MN ll for it's sharp stem and asymetrical haul design would make it more efficient.

The MNII front seat’s leg room is limited. I am 5’ 10” with relatively short legs and found it very cramped.

Northstar because we would be fishing. I haven’t done a Seliga, but I find the Northwind similar to a Souris River.

As noted above the Northstar Seliga is probably the better choice, given the limited leg room for the bow paddler in the MNII.

Who will be sitting in front? And how fast do you want to go?

If the smaller person is up front and you want to go fast, get the MNII

If either of those is not true, go elsewhere (or rent from Sawtooth in Tofte)

Thanks for the feedback. We are not racing anywhere, so I guess we'll get the Northstar.

I would try the Seliga too. I own a Mn. II and it doesn't impress me, especially maneuvering in rough waters.

I'd choose Northstar, formerly bell over Wenonah or Souris River every time.

Sawtooth in Tofte (on your way to Sawbill) has Northstar Northwinds for rent. I think a better all-around hull than the ones you listed.

cyclones30: "Sawtooth in Tofte (on your way to Sawbill) has Northstar Northwinds for rent. I think a better all-around hull than the ones you listed. "

I have rented NW20 and NW17 canoes from Sawtooth. Great experiences both times!

I have a Seliga and I love it. It's an efficient canoe, with more stability than speed, but handles well in wind and waves (happened to buy it from Sawbill). Also no shortage of space. I haven't spent much time in a MN2, but my experience is that it's for making miles if covering ground is your top priority.