Newbie here. 54 yo. Taking first trip to BWCA this September. Any recommendations for a decent bent shaft paddle that won’t break the bank?

Start with paddles from Bending Branches, then compare any others that you find. BB makes fine paddles for $100 or less. They also make paddles that cost quite a bit more. You just have to look at the options and make a buying decision.

What is the $ amount that would "break the bank" for you?

I agree that Bending Branches is a good place to start, although their cheapest bent shaft is just over $100. I have a BB straight that has served me well for many years. They make quality paddles at a fair price.

I also wondered about your price point. For about $200, you can get a ZRE carbon fiber Black Rec bent shaft in a second that will be about half the weight of the BB. I’ve used a second for 20 years and still haven’t found the blemish.

The other choice to save money is rent this year and then buy a used paddle from an outfitter. I got a nice carbon fiber/Kevlar Wenonah from Piragis for a really good deal. But they are out of stock until the 2021 season is over. Of course, by renting this year you lose some of the savings but get to try one out.

Another recommendation for Bending Branches.
I have the Java and the Cruiser Plus paddles. No regrets on the purchases.

Just a quick note here that oversize shipping charges for paddles can be rather high ($40 to $50). That may affect your decision whether to buy locally or online. Of course, if you are working with an outfitter, some of them carry paddles in their shops; you could call ahead and perhaps reserve a paddle for purchase. Piragis in Ely also carries paddles; perhaps your could buy one there and ask them to hold it for you to avoid shipping charges.

I've done BB paddles from REI during the 20% sales. Qualified for free shipping and discounted..

Remember to keep weight in mind and buy as light a paddle as you can afford. Your arms and shoulders will thank you. Carbon bentshaft paddles are generally lighter than wood and a joy to paddle.

spud: "I've done BB paddles from REI during the 20% sales. Qualified for free shipping and discounted.."

speak of the devil.. 20% off coupons arrived for next week :)

i started with a BB special, then a BB Java and a ZRE now.. the ZRE is a lot lighter but also more money(i know there are other options as well).. Since you are starting out, im not sure if you wanted to invest right away in a $300 paddle, but it does seem worth it at some point along the way..

It's not clear (to me) if you're new to BWCA/Q or new to paddling. If the latter, and if you haven't used any of the excellent bent paddles available, why not rent one or two from an outfitter?

TZ