It's out there, just waiting for you, you own personal gold mine - only you may find it's made of aluminum. You guessed it, I'm talking about a second hand canoe... the greatest leisure investment you will ever make - if you know where to find one.
Now, a discussion on boating safety is in order and you'll want to do some reading or enlist the aide of a friend if canoing is new to you. Proper retail stores can outfit you for a reasonable fee but if you are already comfortable with the water and small water craft - do yourself a favor and start reading the classifieds... Canoes come up all the time, sometimes at give away prices... My favorite - an all aluminum Grumman canoe for $75.00 - it's one I've seen more than once.
There're no moving parts to a canoe and when they are made in plastic or aluminum they will basically last forever. Other materials can have their issues so do some research if you are so inclined. You should also make sure you have some boating areas handy - I prefer the relative calm of lakes or 'flat water'... Other than that it's just up to you to go have some safe responsible fun.
For my family of 3 (wife + dog), that will usually take the form of a day trip to one of Western North Carolinas mountain lakes with some food and our digital camera. We'll take it easy on the paddling distances and depending on the weather we might spend 3 hours or so on the water. Our own personal favorite? Family Float Time... Find a secluded cove, stretch out in the bottom of the boat, and drift and snooze while the breeze pushes you about. Not the best activity for a busy marina, but you'll know the spot when you find it and trust me, it really is pure gold.
So what are you waiting for? You've got some prospecting to do!
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