Does anyone solo with a standard alumacraft? I have been wanting to solo for a while but I don't have a solo canoe. I was thinking about getting a knee pad and just use a standard canoe. I have a 15 and 17 foot alumacraft.

My 1st couple solo's I used a 17' alumacraft, I took the brace behind the front seat out and sat in it backwards, then added my packs in the front, when windy it was a little bit of a challenge to keep the front straight.

Go for it. Use the 15'.

If the thwart allows you to do so, sit backwards in the bow seat (ie paddle it backwards). If not, put all your gear as forward as possible and paddle from the stern.

I never would have thought of paddling it backwards. I am pretty sure that I can take the brace out. I figured wind would be a problem and I was planning on traveling early in the morning to avoid that.

I would use a kayak paddle, that would help me in the wind.

Go for it. Did several in a 16' alumacraft. Paddle backwards and get enough weight in the front to keep it trimmed up. A yak paddle really helps when it is windy.

Got it, a kayak paddle and go in reverse

I use a 17' Alumacraft and paddle backwards. I remove the brace (2 bolts). Pack is in front (actually the stern) and when the wind becomes an issue I scoot up and kneel in the middle for better control.

It's not ideal but it really is not that bad either. Like you mentioned, I try to get on the water early and paddle till 1-2pm if the wind is picking up. Someday, when I'm rich and famous, I'll get a solo but for now this works for me just fine.