The BEST fishing canoe
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- Опубликовано: 14 окт 2024
- Are you a shoreline fisherman looking to take that important step and get your first watercraft? Perhaps you have a full sized boat, but want something smaller and move maneuverable for accessing waters you are currently unable to. Whatever your reasons are the Sportspal canoe is an exemplary craft for fishing small to medium size bodies of water. In this video I highlight why I chose it over a jon boat, kayak, or other competing canoes. In a nutshell the Sportspal is the lightest, most stable, and most spacious small watercraft available. If you are looking for a superbly versatile small boat...you just found it!
Two years later this motor is going strong ruclips.net/user/postUgkxBZWgzfpS2Jj7JqIHyaSZjyVHNUgCKCBf Just uploaded a video of it after 2 years. We use it probably a dozen days each year on our small raft.-original review- We got this motor the other day and tested it out. I don't have anything to compare it to, but it seems good to me. It has all the features advertised - the motor housing is metal. We will see how it performs longer term and I will revise this review if needed. Some initial observations:- Good thrust, moves our boat around really well- It comes with a circuit breaker but no switch - so there's no way to kill the motor other than yanking the connection off the battery. I installed an inline switch.- The mount bracket is plastic and I worry it might break- There are a number of plastic parts that I worry about, but the most important ones are metal or some kind of composite
Even 6 years later when I found this video, still a great vid. Thank you!
This is what made me switch over to the dark side. I dropped my kayak and now roll this. And absolutely love it!
@@theparamedicyakker5539 Yeah, I'm thinking about selling my jon boat and getting something like this.
Thank for taking the time and thought energy to make this complete guide! I feel confident to start canoe adventuring now.
Your welcome Matt. Glad the video was beneficial for you. I have indirectly "sold" a lot of this canoe over the years and I have yet to hear back from anyone who wasn't ecstatic about the thing.
one thing you left out which is huge ,, you don't need a trailer like a jon boat ,,, you don't have to wait in line at a crowded dock ,, you can put in at the grassy area and avoid that crowd all together ,,, for me is huge ,, always a line in my area ,, love your videos btw
I have seen your video for years now and never thought I would get my hands on one of these beauties. I finally got one. It is a 14ft Sportspal, 1978 version with the removable foam seats. All original and garage kept. I thought of your video right away once I got it home. Thanks for making me look for this model canoe because everything you said was dead on. This is my favorite small water craft I have ever been on. Thanks.
I bought the Sportspal canoe cause of your awesome video because I love to fish! Live in Virginia and had to go up North to Butler,Pennsylvania to get it! Thanks for the informative video and can’t wait to use it!
Purchased one of these and have zero regrets on spending that money. This canoe is a well built product and easy to carry almost anywhere. My boy and myself are going to have a lot of fun hunting/fishing out of this canoe!!
You've given me the bug to get a Sportspal. Thanks for taking the time to make the video and share.
Love these sports pal canoes. My dad bought ours when he was about 15 and fishes out of it many of times, things wicked durable been dropped on the highway and still floats perfectly. Now he is 40 and I'm 18 and still fish out of the same canoe.
That's cool Nick. A real testament to their longevity and durability.
just picked up an 80's one in great condition, 300 bucks and it's original paint and decal are still clean! So excited to customize it
Just wanna say thank you for this video. Been eyeing one for over a year now. But life happened. But Finally got one today. 😬
Hey, your very welcome. I hope you find it as great a small craft as I do. Let me know what you think after having used it a bit. I know how much I love the thing, but I always ask those who have bought it based on the video what their thoughts are. Best of luck out there and tight lines!
@@KeepinItReelFishing I've watched this video at least 20 times so I'm sure I'll love it 😅
Hey nice canoe, I received mine ( a Sportspal) as a birthday gift in 1975 and I still have it. Been great all these years. Lightweight was a blessing since I kept dragging it around lakes. Great video.
Great watercraft, when light weight is a key factor.
I have a 14' full transom Sportspal. I put a 2.5 Suzuki outboard on it, I can go on ponds, rivers, small lakes with NO problems. Swapped the oared paddles for regular paddles and they work great, much better than trying to paddle in wind.
At 65 I can still put it up on top of my truck without too much straining. When paddling I appreciate the foam floor too, as I paddle with my knees plus along with the sponsons (outside the gunwales) it makes it pretty much unsinkable.
It has a 38" beam, 56 lbs with 850 lb capacity. Two guys and gear no problem. Just keep your passenger in the center not the bow. I built a simple hand winch system on my roof racks with loading arms for my 18' aluminum freighter canoe and now use that for effortless loading of all my watercraft.
Good luck with your adventures!
Great job! This has got to be the the most informative and comprehensive video out there on this type of canoe! I've been looking at various types of water crafts for lakes and I think you've solved my dilemma.
Just wanted to say you are right on! After watching your video I went out and bought this exact canoe, and my wife and I have enjoyed it so very much. I put a 45 lb thrust trolling motor on it and it gets us around very nicely. It has plenty of room for both of us and we have great success in our fishing so far. Thanks so much for making this video you really gave great insight into this canoe it is fantastic!
Update 7-11-2022 6 years later....
Took my wife out today and the Canoe is still going strong. Stability is as good as ever both the wife and the Canoe :) We have caught countless fish and made so many memories, probably one of the best purchases I have ever made, I am so happy you recommended it. If by some chance the Canoe ever has problems I would have no hesitation buying another :) Happy Canoeing!
My fiance and I want to do the same thing fish and add trolling motor. What kind of speed do you get up to? And how does it perform stability wise when your on a lake with wind and waves?
I had to laugh because I felt I could have done the exact same video for the same reasons you got this one and enjoy it. I even tried to tip it when I bought it to prove that it would not. Only difference I bought the Rqdisson 14 footer which is about 48 lbs. Yes indeed the aluminum is thinner and dents but that has been no problem even going down the Delaware river Bought a different brand roof rack and usually unload it from rear also using "my head" lol. BTW my front tie down is where cars typically have a covered hole bellow the grill where a bolt goes thru when they tie down cars for shipping. You pop out the plug covering and install the plug. I then remove the plug and replace the covering over the winter. In the rear area I have a rope attached to the underside of the rear of the car width wise so that it hangs down a bit and I can attach the rear tie down there. I do not use cable or wire for the hanging wire since if for some reason I snag something going over rough ground the rope would break and not the car lol. I also would recommend attaching a red piece of material to the stern of the canoe when it is on the rook rack. If you see a Radisson canoe ( I removed their logo from the sides) , and the canoe has a shark mouth on it and a star on the back of it that is me. I live in NNJ.
I bought one years ago, spring of 2015, based on Carl's video (see my earlier posts). I now live on an 1800 acre lake and I have several kayaks and I still, of course, have my Sportspal. What do I prefer to fish out of? The Sportspal . . . by a very wide margin. One kayak's drive bogs down in the lake vegetation, another is a paddler but it weighs 99 lbs. with its seat in place. What I'd likely do if I buy another one is downsize to an S-13 square stern. It'd be easier to load it in my truck with my bed extender. I like to paddle over pedal and prefer manual over power but that square stern on my S-15 is very handy for my trolling motor. I've been out the last 3 afternoons and I am like Carl: I stand the whole time just sitting to tie on a new lure. I even paddle standing using a 280 CM. two bladed paddle. I think my Sportspal is better in this regard that even the fishing SUPs (stand up paddle board) I have seen. I once had my trolling motor mounted, crossed a lake standing with a wind blowing at me from the side at around 20 mph. I never felt even the slightest out of balance. For anyone viewing Carl's video, the primary benefits as I see them: 1) Light weight means you will use your vessel much, much more; 2) Standing is much better with a wider array of fishing presentations and applications. Only a few kayaks are really easily standable; but, say, a Hobie PA 14 (one that is stable) weighs about 150 lbs. or so; 3) and, these canoes can carry much more gear (or other people!) for campers and others, too, but I take mine out sort of finesse most days: a paddle, one rod, a tackle bag and a stake out pole is a cool "add" to secure you when you need to stop in shallow water conditions. Brad
Hi,
What is the length and the widths of sports pal caneo
@@raghebsabry7699 12’ Pointed
12’ Pointed Special
Centre Length: 11’6” (3.51 m)
Beam: 38” (96.52 cm)
Centre Depth: 13” (33 cm)
Weight: 34 lbs. (15.42 kg)
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs. (226.8 kg)
Max. HP: 2
Foam Seats: Standard
Web Seats: Optional
Keels: 3
Persons: 2 www.bwmarineproducts.com/images/Sportspal%20Brochure%20-%20Englis
Great review, best I've seen yet! My friend and I just bought a used one today (Canadian version) and we're excited to try it out!
Ours came with the foam seats that just sit on the floor so I think the first thing we'll do is replace them with bench style seats.
I remember seeing these at our local sports show every spring and thought they were a joke. Times have changed I'm older and wiser and I'm thinking about getting one this spring. This is an excellent review.
Did enjoy canoeing but now I sail. Just to complement, this is a very well done demonstration on the use and transporting and good tips of this canoe
Beautiful set up brother thanks for taking the time.
Really great video, lots of information for someone like myself that was on the pedal kayak/canoe fence, Looks like a sportspal is in my future.
Thank you for this review. I bought this canoe because I saw your video. It s the perfect canoe for bass fishing in the small lakes in south jersey. Keep posting videos when you can, I enjoy them and obviously have benefited from your reviews etc.
Love it. The current kayak craze drives me nuts, so heavy with so little capacity, and you are wet the whole time. Love it man, thanks for the ideas!
Great Video. I currently live in an apartment/complex. I have been considering getting a boat for some time but I am limited when it comes to parking. I had been looking at kayaks but for relatively the same cost you get some much less out of them. This video has really opened my eyes to a great option for those looking for an affordable way to get on the water.
How do you not have 100k + subscribers? All of your vids are ridiculously informative
I don't VLOG :P
Glad to have found this video. Already decided on a Sportspal before the spring. Already ordered the Thule for my FIT. Was happy to see you putting it on your FIT. Very informative video.
Awesome. Glad the video helped you out....that's always the goal. Any questions you may have, feel free to ask.
Ordered a trailex SUT220 trailer with birch bark Sportspal S14. Will pick up the Minnesota Endura Max 45 from Cabela's today. Been looking for a lightweight, stable canoe and a lightweight, easily moveable trailer and a good quiet motor since I like to explore and don't like to paddle all day and now that I'm getting up in years the last thing I want to do is have to deal with capsizing. Been kayaking and canoeing all my life but still happens sometimes. I also like to fish small bodies of water a lot some of which you have to carry it a fair ways to the water. The idea of a very stable, virtually unsinkable small canoe with a quiet trolling motor sounds perfect. Will also be good for me and my wife when just wanting to explore small rivers and lakes here in North Texas. Watching your videos helped me decide what will work best for my needs. Thanks!
I’ve recently got a used scanoe 16’ and appreciate this video. I had a old town fishing kayak sitting down all that time just wasn’t for me. Very good setup here!
One of the best reviews ever I have seen. Thank you!
Im looking for canoe, this is higher priced by as much as double what I was concidering. But being 59, it would be my last canoe, so to spend twice as much and have eveything is ok by me. Some of the composit canoes can weigh up to 85lbs, and still not be as stable.
I dont know why anyone would do a thumbs down, this video was well made and covered all the angles. He lacked a dancing lady maybe, Kidding. This canoe is purfect for what I need.
Thank you, great video.
Great Video. Very informative. I recently bought a Canadian model Sportspal 12' square stern. It weighs in at an actual 45 lbs without the paddles in it so I can get in on and off the car by myself. I like the fact that these canoes are so stable. I'll be fly fishing from my Sportspal so stability is a must. I bought a 30 lb trolling motor + 100AH lithium battery and a 2.5 Suzuki that only weighs 29 lbs. to get my where I need to go. The Suzuki is the best motor for these canoes. It is the lightest and is also quietest compared to other outboards.
14' Michicraft Sportsman. 64lb.
Nearly identical except slightly less beam. Same bark paint job. Another sweet backwater vessel. Thanks for the great video!
I baught 2 Bass Pro Shop stadium seats to strap on the bench seats on my Sportspal. The seats are very comfortable for the long rides. I have the 14 foot Canadian version that weighs 41 pounds. Keep making videos.
Looks like a great boat and set up.
I just got a 15 & 1/2ft plastic canoe with molded plastic bolt-on seats (3). Don’t know what kind, it says model WQ156 on a label inside.
I’m going to install (my own design, when I can come up with one) outriggers with stabilizer floats so that I can make it a sailboat as well. I like Bermuda (main and jib) sail plans so I’ll probably go with that.
I’m in Oklahoma and we have Eufaula lake here and it’s very big. I’ve heard it’s one of the biggest man-made lakes in the world! So where I can use the wind rather than fuel or electricity I will.
I’m a sailor anyway (got a - somewhat derelict - Jason 35) so raising sails is always a thrill for me.
But yeah, your vessel and rig looks great, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the great review. I stumbled across your review while searching to see if the Sportspal brand was still around. I paddled 'em in the 1970's as a kid at summer camp. Each day each age group of kids got the promised 1 hour of canoeing and, well, there were more than a few collisions. The councilors didn't seem to mind (not much, anyway) and would simply hammer out the larger dents. The canoes did look a bit rumpled but they took their punishment day after day. Later, when I tried "real" canoes, I was very surprised how unstable they were. I've been thinking of canoeing again (relaxed-pace paddling and trolling only; nothing sporty) and immediately thought of Sportspal. Glad to hear its still around, doing well, and highly recommended.
I bought a 16' radisson 2 weeks ago and I love it so far. thanks for the review. oh and I got it for $600. the guy only took it out twice. great fishing canoe. thanks again!
We would love to see more videos about the canoe 🛶 very interested. Thank you so much for sharing and engaging our interest in the Sportspal Canoe.
I bought the sportspal s13. One end is flat for motor. Made for duck hunting.
But I've had mine on the Ohio river with barge traffic. Waves get 4ft high. Never once was worried about flipping or rolling .
Took it out solo many times also another person plus gear. Very stable comfortable canoe.
I've been in some canoes that were torturous to be in for any length of time. But sportspal is the Cadillac of the canoe world.
Aircraft aluminum wired it for lights and phone charging. Also have atv bluetooth speakers 8" subs. And always a cooler full of beers.
I've had one sitting here for 4years and I've yet to use it! Been kayaking. Looks like I'll be fixing this bad boy up and gettin after it!!
Thanks dude!!
Carl, I subscribed and watched this video several times during the past week - great job and thank you! I was so impressed with the canoe setup I went ahead and ordered an S-16, a 579XT Thule Canoe Carrier, Minnkota Endura C2 motor and battery power center. Got the dark olive finish too! I am very much looking forward to putting this on the water and reeling in a bunch of bass this year! Thank you again for a very informative video.
Hey Bob - sounds great! I'm really glad the video was able to help you decide and/or feel comfortable in making the purchase. That was the whole idea....to put this canoe and the set-up as a whole on people's radar as a fantastic small boat alternative. Let me know how it goes you first few times out, and good luck with all the fishing you'll be doing from it.
How is it 3 years later?
I'm with you man. Canoes are just about perfect. I'd say the last thing mine needs now after just hooking it up with a 45 lb thrust motor is a set of back rests. Not having to row long distances anymore takes a lot of stress off the lower back but long days on the water are rough without the rests being 6' 1" myself. My father is upgrading to a 17' bass tracker next weekend but for fishing alone in shallow water I'll take the canoe with a trolling motor all day.
TLan14 Hey TLan - your right. I have two stadium style strap-on seats. I don't use it too much, but they definitely help the back out. Thanks for watching and good luck out there!
Wow absolutely awesome video about an incredible canoe. I bought a 1982 14ft. Sportspal 2 years ago that was in real tough shape. I replaced all the foam and painted it ,banged out most of the dents and really love this canoe. It's hard to believe how stable they are. I just wanted to add that Meyers sells everything you would need to redo any of their canoes. You can also send them your beat up canoe and they will make it look new again. I'm with you that this is the best fishing canoe out there! Thanks for a great video.
I have the s13 now for a year, stored in the winter, I just ordered the motor mount, which I will have to drill holes and mount it. The reason got the mount, because it was awkward trying to steer, having twist around plus see forward. Now this may help. Love the canoe I to trailer it behind my pick up. Mine was a little over $1,300 delivered, got two oars, the attached seats.
After seeing this video more than once , I'm not cutting cost on purchasing my 1st canoe...., thanks!!!
SportsPal really gives you $$$ worth w/ accessories options - nice!
Good choice! I think you will really enjoy this craft. A number of people now have purchased it based on what I showed here in this review and they have all come back to me extremely pleased with the canoe.
Really loved this review!
I am thinking of swapping my plastic canoe for a Sportspal 16' with a transom (more stability and room).
You really convinced me!
Great video, thanks! I have a fishing boat, but don't always have the ability to take it with me. This looks like a great option
Excellent video. Locally, we have Radisson canoes. (Central Michigan) First time I've seen the Meyers version. You sold me over buying a jonboat. 👍🏻
You have the Sportspal Myers just like he has. There made in Adrian Michigan
Carl, I just recently subscribed to your channel here because of your tackle reviews, which are very well done. When I saw this video I was pleasantly surprised because I am considering some sort of craft to fish in here in Florida after fishing from shore for the 2 years since I relocated here from Chicago. I just wanted to say Thank You for the great work on your channel here on RUclips. Please keep up the great work. Thanks, again.
Hey Frank - and thank YOU for taking the time to comment and leave the kind words. I really appreciate it. I'm glad some of my content is helpful to you.
I can not say enough about how great this video is. Thank you for taking the time to be so thorough. I am in the same position that you were in that i have a small car, no truck, and am looking for my first stable watercraft that will allow me to get into all areas of a lake, pond, channels, etc. This seems like an excellent mix between a Jon boat and a kayak. They are not local to me so I will have to pay for shipping, but it definitely seems worth it and your video helped me see how it would fit in with my needs. Thanks again!
Hey Doyle - thanks for the comment and you are welcome! The whole point of this video was to try to show everyone all the in's and out's of this canoe and I'm glad you feel well informed now. Your right in that they are not common to find locally (although I have seen them on rare occasions), but with a thorough enough video my hope was to put people onto a craft that I think would be a great boat for a lot of folks. Just an FYI I got mine from molnaroutdoor.com. I just checked and they still offer the same package that I got when I got mine, which is a seat upgrade, free oars, life vests, etc. Check their site. I have no affiliation (although they are using my video), but it was the best overall deal I found years ago.
+KeepinItReelFishing Ordered one yesterday and now anxiously awaiting its arrival :)
Yeah, I have the foam blocks and while going down the highway one came off! Almost lost the canoe. It wasn’t the freeway but it was a fast wide boulevard.
We had to circle back around and get it, then re-fasten the canoe down and it was fine.
But yes, I agree, I need to get some specialty brackets for hauling a vessel on my 2001 Ford Expedition luggage rack.
I don’t want to pay for them so I I’ll probably just make my own (I’m a woodcraftsman and am used to building much of my own aftermarket products).
Carl since last we talked I think 3 months ago I purchased the same set up you have sportspal Meyers s-14 , 2 batteries and 30lb thrust trolling motor but for some reason I just keep coming back to watch this video lol thank for the ideas
Awesome! So...what are your thoughts? Do you like it?
KeepinItReelFishing to tell the truth its everything you would hope for and more like you already explained in your video has the capacity, has the stability, has the functionality, the mobility is 100% , the universal aspect of the canoe is everything , people just need to understand it's not a bass boat, it's not a ski boat , it's not heavy but it will give you everything those boats can pleasure cruising, fishing , hunting, bird watching, it doesn't have speed but it will get you there in time AND THE PRICE I can't even imagine the price differences it can't do it all but it will do more than half of what you think its limits are I LOVE IT for what its purpose it does it 110% if I can quote you "it's a dynamic craft"
I have the same canoe, but mine 12 ft. It's significantly older and has some leaks, but still and amazing little boat. I'm getting ready to buy a Rhino Liner kit to spray on the outside of mine. I've got a few other ideas it that I plan on doing this year. I'm planning a camping/fishing trip this summer and I want to make it a little more comfortable for what I want to do. I'll try to get some videos.
Good stuff CJ. I started with a used 12ft model that was like 25 years old when I got it. Just know this, the difference in balance between the 12ft and the 14ft is night and day. Standing in the 12ft was always sketchy to me....do-able, but not comfortable. The 14ft model is the exact opposite, I almost never sit its so stable and predictable. Just an FYI.
Really nice setup Carl, I really enjoyed the video. Everything you do is first class, well done my man! My other hobby besides fishing is bike riding and I have a Thule bike rack for my truck, great products!
Thanks James! I've been meaning to get a bike mount for this rack...I have a mountain bike I enjoy riding as well.
Thanks for this video! Very informative. That boat has changed all of my perceptions of canoe options. I have always loved canoes but they were always too awkward and heavy for me to load and carry. Plus they were not as stable as I want in a small fishing craft. I had decided to go with a new fishing kayak but now I see there is an alternative. And it even lighter!! Thanks again... :-)
Jeez, sorry Charlie! I don't seem to get notification of all the comments. Just wanted to follow up and say thank you for watching and I'm glad I was able to put something else on your radar. If you have since gotten one let me know how your doing with it.
I have to extend my thanks. I took your advice, and I have your complete setup here in the Estuaire area in Gabon (Libreville). I have the SportsPal canoe, Minn-Kota 45 (salt water) trolling motor, Lowrance fish finder, battery box, bait casting setup - The whole ball of wax! I built myself a small wooden console to pose over the battery box, and attached the fish finder on top. I fashioned a support for the transducer out of local wood, and mounted on top of the motor mount, but extending the transducer on the side opposite the motor. The area behind my house is a tidal ocean-fed system that has a 12 hour cycle. Watching the tide charts, I put the canoe in the water about an hour and a half before peak tide, and run up river with the tide, trolling, then bait casting to fish the structures and holes. Then I ride out and back home with the help of the tide about an hour or so after it peaks. Dynamite way to spend 3 or so hours! Catching some nice eating fish they call "rouge". Many, many thanks for your suggestions.
A ton of great info shared for a lot of people, thanks man. Your canoe is the shit, perfect... I want one.
I have a sit on top kayak which I purchased last year and outfitted with an optional trolling motor and a Lowrance Hook 4. When Harvey hit I pulled the trigger on a canoe by the same maker, Lifetime. Yesterday, I stopped by Cabela's in Fort Mill, SC and got a deal on a Hook 3 DSI for 60 bucks.. now the canoe can find fish, too! I got the canoe for the option of extra stowage, hitting the water with a couple of friends/fam... my only exposure to 'marine life' growing up was canoeing at camp.. knew someday I WOULD have a canoe.. haven't had it out yet, but tried. Too heavy for me to get on my van's ladder rack alone. Long story short, they are both so affordable I think owning both is justified. I can put a week's worth of gear in my canoe and tow it to an island/campsite with my kayak and have plenty of practical/recreational options... thanks for the great video!
Dude thanks so much for making this video. I didn't know these existed, now I can go fishing with my boys at a cheap price without breaking the bank or my back lol... Thanks again man keep doing your thing. My boys love your channel
Hey rslim....your very welcome! My purpose on creating this video was to show people who had been asking about the canoe what it was all about, but more so I really wanted to make the case for it as being an excellent choice. Like you said, not many people know of them and I hope some people can enjoy it just as much as I've been enjoying mine. Have fun with your boys!
KeepinItReelFishing ... str8 up is keeping it reel.. i have not seen another channel on youtube is that as reel as this guy..... i was thinking about buying a kayak but after watching this i am really considering a stable canoe.... man you are thorough
What a great video. Thanks. This might be just what I am looking for.
I have a 12' Raddison. It's all you say ! I love it.
You do some of the best reviews out there.
Thanks so much
You can strap wheels under the rear and cart it through the woods. load your gear over the wheels and you can go into some hard to reach places. Saves portaging especially when you have a battery and trolling motor on board too. I have numerous kayaks and use a trolling motor on two of them. I put the battery in the back when I am wheeling it to the water and then stuff it into the front hatch but as you said, it's a one person craft. The two yaks I use the motor on weigh 64 and 65#. I'm considering taking my oldest carbon kevlar kayak (perception shadow carbon) and rigging that for the trolling motor as it weighs 33# yet I'm looking at a 17' fiberglass sawyer that needs a small repair for nearly free...Hence I'm checking out your video as I've always known canoes to be tippy AF and now have a little bit of knowledge otherwise. Worst case, I'll make some outriggers right? Cheers!
Funny story ,I just watched your video on Friday and by accident i bought a canoe on Saturday , guess what brand it is !!!! so excited !!!
That's some "accident"! They are great crafts man. I hope you enjoy yours.
I was in the market for a canoe earlier this yr and I kept coming back to this video. I was looking for everything you are doing here and it's amazing how it all fell into place and now I'm sitting here with almost the same exact setup. I probably watched this about 5 times before I made the purchase and then another few times just because it has really good info. When I talked to Myers I let them know how this video convinced me to buy this canoe. There was a laugh and they said, "yes we hear that a lot." I can't think of his name but I am so glad he talked to me about what I wanted in a canoe and talked me into this 14ft because I was ready to purchase the 16ft transom. That says a lot about this company. I love this canoe and when I see any other canoes at retail stores and get the weight and other details, I get such a great feeling knowing I have a far superior canoe IMO.
Here is my setup if anyone wants to know. Very happy with all of it with this canoe.
Sportspal 14 Birch Bark
Minn-Kota Enduramax 45 lb thrust
Minn-Kota battery center box w/ Optimum blue top D34M
Thule rack system
Garmin Striker 4 portable kit
Thanks again!
Wow, thanks for dropping a comment on your purchase. You MUST love it with your name being what it is! That is pretty much the exact set-up and I'm happy you copied. Some people will go through trial and error with products, or maybe just not use what they have very much if its say....to heavy. A lightweight, stable, and spacious craft is the trifecta of what a lot of people are looking for. I still feel that same way eight years later that you are feeling now....that being excited and proud of the rig. Just this weekend I was on a lake and saw numerous people fishing from sit-in kayaks, and pitied them as they couldn't stand while fishing. I also saw someone with a nice Hobie kayak, but he had to trailer it due to weight, still didn't hold nearly what the Sportspal does, and cost 3X-4X as much.
Enjoy your new canoe man! They last forever so hopefully you will make many memories while on it.
Very cool setup on that canoe
That is a badass canoe! You got good vids man!
I have been doing some research into buying something in order to graduate from bank fishing. I think I found what I want. Thanks for the great video. 😁
I fish out of a 33lb Old Town Pack Angler canoe. I have a bad back and I can carry it even while wearing a full 30lb backpack. No standing for me in that thing tho.
And Nice Honda Fit! I used to drive a Honda CRX Si, and later an Integra GSR and I never had a problem carrying 8'6" muskie rods in my Hondas... Meanwhile my fishing buddies always had a hard time carrying any rod over 8' in their full size truck beds.
Best canoes ever! I have two much more expensive canoes and they are no way as good for fishing as the old Sportspal. They are feather light and paddle very well. I sold her for $200 when she was getting really dinged up and her ribs were popping out! I will be looking for another soon
Thank you for the video....I've been looking for my first fishing boat that I can use carry myself and that I can stand up in 😬👍I was also looking for something I could paddle standing up for fishing as well as something that I could put a trolling motor on ....love this canoe 😍
Great review and great canoe!
Love your reviews, keep on the excellent work!
Excellent video Carl, a wealth of information that helped me look at this canoe instead of a fishing kayak. Even so many years later this is still excellent information, there are several other canoe options out there like the Isquif Mallard XL but at a higher cost, heavier weight or less cargo capacity. The Sportspal 14 footer checks all the boxes for me, one question I have is whether to get the pointed or square stern? I would like the ability to paddle it a little if needed or as you do, stand up and paddle to site fish but I will mostly move around with a 40 lbs Minn Kota trolling motor. For those who have tried the different models, how much stability do you give up with the square stern? How is the steering with the motor behind you on the square stern instead of beside you with the pointed? Thanks
Hi Philip. Thank you sir. Regarding your questions....
I actually have both. The 14ft double ended you see here and a 15ft square stern (you can see it in some of my latter videos). I rarely paddle either one, so I can't comment on difference there (but it wouldn't be a fair comparison anyway as the 15ft model is substantially bigger/heavier). I can tell you that its a heck of a lot more convenient having the trolling motor on the side mount used for the double ended model vs the square stern. Reaching directly behind you gets old quick and you do quite a bit of it as canoes need a fair amount of correction when your covering big water. Conversely, I can't say exactly the loss, but having the side mount isn't as efficient as having the motor directly inline as with the square stern. You actually have to put a little "english" on the direction of the trolling motor on the side mount/double ended canoe to keep thing going straight and correct for the fact that its offset.
Also, if there is any chance you may be inclined to put a small gas outboard on it...of course the square stern is the choice.
Overall I prefer the side mount/double ended model. Whatever inefficiency is incurred by the motor offset, is more than made up for IMO by the ease of access to to vs directly behind you.
I enjoyed your video very much. I have always been leery of standing in a canoe , but you make it look so stable. The trolling motor is a nice plus too!
Excellent video! Thanks for posting.
I purchased an old sportspal 14’ square stern canoe.to use for some fishing but mostly waterfowl hunting. I contacted the manufacturer by email asking for screws and sealant and received a response in one day. Materials will be delivered in less then a week!
Have you tried using the the oarlock sprockets with oarlocks to row this canoe?🇨🇦
Meyers / radisson. both great canoes. i go with radisson because it is canadian made and i like canadian made stuff. both great canoes. im thinking of ordering those bench seats from meyers to put on my radisson thou really like them. im just starting a restoration on a 14' radisson. can't wait to have it on the water for bass. thumbs up for your video.
Carl, an update. My Sportspal S-15 arrived today! A bit of a weather delay . . . but it made it down in really top shape. General observations: 1) the dark olive finish is about the color of a military jeep - traditional and lovely; 2) the canoe is sturdier than I thought it would be and actually feels a bit heavier than I expected but it is very manageable at 67 lbs.; 3) I ordered the center gunwale seat for a total of 3 seats from the factory (I have grandkids) and it is mounted in the "paddling" position just forward a few inches of the stern thwart. I think this likely makes the canoe even more structurally sturdy. That center position seat sure looks like a great place to fish from (if soloing) with an extension for the trolling motor; 4) the canoe is wider than it appears in most photos and videos. I have noticed that some of the videos I have viewed can sort of distort the length/width aspect ratio of these canoes. But, one way to really get a good idea of how wide these canoes are (they are all the same) actually occurs in your video when you have it mounted for carrying on your shoulder. . . that it hangs all the way down to just above your knees. In other words, if you were lying in the boat perpendicular to its length, your neck and head would be over the gunwale on one side, your knees just beyond the outside of the other gunwale. *** I have some rigging to do, some mods to my Xterra to top carry it, then I will be off for first launch some time next week I suppose. I'll go "no power" the first time and in an empty canoe just using the paddles so I can move around in it and gain a feel for what I can and cannot do. Thanks again, Carl! Brad in Texas
Hi Brad - That's great! I really love that dark olive finish too. I think you right about that center seat and added rigidity. It certainly doesn't require it, but more is better. That should be so convenient when bringing a third person on. Your thoughts it being the optimal position for fishing are intriguing. I suppose it makes sense that being standing at the widest point of the boat would lend itself to the greatest stability. I always have gear or a tripod there, but let me know if that plays out as you suspect.
I'm excited for you to get it out! I hope you enjoy it and have a great season exploring its capabilities and just having fun.
I own the 12' model and I totally agree with your review. I am only 150 pounds so I went with the shorter model. I transport it on the Harbor Freight trailer and tow it behind a minivan. Ideal stable light weight fishing craft.
thanks for making such a great video! I just picked up a sportspal canoe (the smaller 12ft one -I'm little and by myself) and watching your video has me really happy I got it. Initially I got it to paddle around the marina and maybe the river next to it but seeing what your doing I think I will be getting a rack for my corolla and outfitting my canoe so I can find the cool places like you did. can't wait to give it some tlc over the winter. thanks again!
Hey Foxy, your welcome! Before I had this one, I had an older 12ft model I bought used. It was in that canoe that I became aware of how awesome these Sportspals are! The 12ft model is not as stable to stand in, but thats just the reality of craft length. The 12 ft is about 10lbs less than the 14ft model, so you shouldn't have too much trouble loading it on a vehicle. I hope you have a lot of fun with it this coming spring! Thanks for dropping me the message.
Fantastic video with my coffee before work! Thank you! That is the set up for me.
Haha. I have my coffee in hand too! Thanks for watching Powerpickle. Let me know how it works out for you if you end up getting it.
I saw this video months ago, and I've had a bug for this canoe ever since. Just ordered my S-15, can't wait for it to come in. Awesome review man!
Absolutely awesome review! I just found a S13 square stern for sale a few hours away. This review closed the deal for me. Thank you for taking the time to educate me on this boat.
Hey Trapper - thanks man. Let me know your thoughts on it if you get it. I really advocate for this thing because it truly is a great craft and I think most people either think jon boat or (especially now days) kayak. This canoe is the perfect solution for a lot of people. They just need to know it exists. Glad you found the video and found it helpful.
Liked your review a lot Carl...thanks. For most all of your reasons I too went with a canoe. I chose the Merrimack Osprey because I wanted more of an wooden canoe feel and it was only 48 lbs. I figured I could move it around alone even when I was older, I'm 67 now. I chose to be more traditional and only paddle but I can stand up in it and move around without fear of going over...it has a 39" beam. I found a magnetic means of holding the fish finder transducer on online and it works very well. Keep up the good work!
Hey Pale Ryder - thanks for the comment. Wooden canoes are just awesome, but I know I would be banging it up a little, hence the aluminum. The Osprey is such a gorgeous canoe....a real work of art.
KeepinItReelFishing Thanks! But for the record it's kevlar/fiberglass with wood treatments. :) That's now the weight stays down I guess. I do share your view as in I do USE it for fishing. :)
Thanks for making such a great video, job well done. You answered about every question I had about canoe fishing. I live in Delray Beach, FL and we have lakes and canals all over the place and they are close. Again thanks.
Hey Security - Your welcome! Glad you found it helpful.
+KeepinItReelFishing awesome man i was thinking about getting a kayak but now that i saw your video im definitely getting a canoe, and how is the thing on waves, like if a boat passes or something
Been a Jersey fisherman my whole life. 25 years or so fishing from the bank in freshwater at least. Last year's drought showed me structure in lakes and ponds around here I had no clue existed. Definitely wanna copy your setups
Hey man...please do. I really feel its a fantastic set up for all the reasons mentioned in the video. If you don't have much gear then the kayaks are a good option. But, in terms of lightweight, stability, huge capacity, and fishing with a friend.....this canoe is a great way to do it all. Thanks for watching and good luck on the water.
When I go out I have two marine AGM batteries, two 60 watt solar panels with solar charge controllers (getting bigger panels). Went out for a good 15 miles last summer with my 30 lb thrust trolling mottor in one day. Crusing and fishing all day long. Lots of reserve with a fully charged battery on standby.
Just bought a 15’ sportspal square stern canoe,excited, but not taking it out till next spring! Waiting for Black Friday to see what deals I can get on trolling motor, batteries and fish finder. My question is,did you mount your fish finder to the aluminum cross bar? Do you have your transducer mounted to your trolling motor? Ps, got mine in Birchbark too! Thanks
Wow, under 60 lbs finished hull weight! That is impressive. I am now rethinking my selection for a small water fishing platform. I really like the foam inserts between the ribs. Kayaks are popular and readily available, but I want to stand when I fish more often than not. John boats are great and I used one for years, but they are not easy to portage by one person. I was considering a stitch and glue bass buggy (catamaran) made from light marine plywood and rigid foam. Not sure if I could beat the hull weight of this canoe, though. Thanks for taking the time to make and share this video. Good stuff as always.
nevermind. you commented on that in the video. thanks again. awesome boat. gonna order one in the spring. my 6 year old is gonna love it too!
Michael - The 50lb would really rock. All I know for sure is the 34lb I have is fine for open water with moderate wind (max), but struggles in strong gusts and getting me free from weeds/cover. I'm thinking the 45lb will be good, and obviously anything more powerful will just be ever better. The only concern is battery life, but everyone has their own criteria there. I often fish entire days so for me a balance between power and stamina is ideal. If you tend to fish for half a day or less the more powerful models would probably be best....get you to spots faster and out of heavy cover more easily.
Super video and outstanding setup! My go-to personal rig is also a SportsPal 14' (Canadian Version) but I power mine with a Suzuki 2.5hp instead of a trolling motor and battery. I added two quick release deluxe swivel seats, rod holders and a huge cooler/livewell. This has proven to be an ideal rig for couples' camping/fishing adventures up to about a week or so in duration, and we still enjoy some paddling too!
Can I get information on the quick disconnect swivel seats?
Mr.KeepinItReel, I like your approach to everything. I think you're a smart dude unlike these other guys. Case in point number one; you use light lines for bass fishing. No two; you have good canoe. No three; you know your gear and applications....
I found this video today as a pop up. I did not know this canoe was still on the market. I have been rigging mine out with a dream of striper fishing. I would love to send you photos of my 11 footer. Bruce in S Jersey.
i have one with oarlocks. It is great to row. Just row to where you want to fish. Drop the oars and they stay put. Just drop the oars and start fishing! Much better than any kayak i have ever been in...
A very thorough presentation. I am interested in canoe fishing, but balance is an issue as I am over 65. This looks incredible! Thanks, now I start my research just before Christmas with the hope of getting something for some FUN Spring fishing in local lakes here in NW Indian. Thanks again.
Just checked on the Sportspal, and Meyers is less than 4 hours from me! Now, I need to work on my wife for a new toy!
Dave McCracken Good stuff Dave! That's nice and close. What is perfect is at that distance you can make a day trip of it and visit the place and I'm almost positive you can test the various models to see which one works best for you.
Great value and very stable. Comes with everything you need to get started.
Thank you for taking the time to post your review. It's a great canoe and may get one, as soon as I sell my kayak! lol. It's funny I'm thinking that the habitat looked like NJ then I'm thinking that's ridiculous he could be anywhere in the Northern U.S. Then I saw the registration. It was a great guess.
Thanks for the thoroughness and enthusiasm...my fishing buddy just gave me his 14' Sportspal from 1982, still in excellent condition. Needs only to have a hardware update, replace rusty steel screws on handles and motor mount replaced with ss or brass. Needs seats but I have mfr website in MI for that. Like your call on larger 40 # thrust on Minn Kota. I have a homemade livewell that I'll place midships, otherwise using just as you spec. Appreciate your comprehensive review...only wonder about the mounts for oarlocks/paddlelocks in middle of boat? See some pics of guys using for a pontoon-style outrigger on duck hunting rig with birch or other logs? Stability enhancement I guess but this boat is rock solid dance platform already🕺🏼! Again, outstanding video intro to the boat...Greg
Perfect. The best review and presentation I've ever seen on you tube...
Looks real quiet in the water Nice!
I just bought this canoe. So happy