Great choice Jim! Excellent choice to go with wood gunwales! Wood gunwales provide permanent spring-tension shape to the boat, and actually contribute to that beautiful prospector shape, and if kept well oiled (I use boiled linseed oil), they will last a lifetime. Wood gunwales can take a beating on serious backcountry trips, and always retain shape, whereas aluminum gunwales will dent, bend and never return to original shape. Wood gunwales are really nice on the hands and the paddle shaft. If ever serious damaged (e.g. a rapids pin that snaps the gunwales), wood gunwales are easily repaired in the bush en route, whereas aluminum gunwales are a nightmare to fix. That Blue Steel 15 foot NC prospector is on my list to test paddle, as I need to find a lighter big capacity solo boat to replace my old small 16 Trailhead prospectors which I am finding a tad heavy in my older age :-) Thanks for showing it on the water, it looks like a superb big capacity solo tripping boat, and its on my list for potential future purchase. I am sure you will custom outfit it to your preference, e.g. glued in interior tie down loops and lashing points, foam knee pads, etc. Would like to see what you come up with in a future video. One thing I noticed was the painter line attachments. I don't know if its a strong bolt into the hull that will not pull out under extreme load when lining and tracking? (since I have not seen their boats up close). I drilled my kevlar boat through the flotation tanks (which of course voids the warranty!), and glued in a 1/2 inch PVC pipe for a "Tug Eyes" type of system. Its hard mentally to bring oneself to drill a boat like that, but my boat's hardware for lining was not strong enough. If NC's bolt system and backing of the bolts inside the hull for those painter line attachments is super-strong, then no worries. When lining or tracking, when accidents happen and the boat fills with water, suddenly there is a ton of weight that has to be hauled on, and one's entire life support system in the boat is dependent on the strength of the lines and the hardware attachment to the boat. :-)
Oh man, it is great. If you see my Algonquin Park Trout fishing videos up on my channel, you can see it in action. I used it to run some moderate rapids too. It spoiled me though because now, every time I pick up my other 15' Prospector in Royalex, or my 17' Prospector in TuffStuff Expedition, they feel real heavy!
Yes, I watched that video. It was a great trip. It reminded me of spring fishing on the Cains River in New Brunswick. One thing I noticed is that your canoe doesn't have a keel running down the center of the bottom. I guess you don't need one?
Wow beautiful boat and I’m loving the color that wood grain brings it all together, and man was she smooth on that water looked like she went nice and straight
Hey Jim~ just got off the phone with Steve at Novacraft... I'm ordering a Bob Special in Blue Steel... hopefully with cherry gunnels and seats and yoke~ wahooo! Couldn't be more excited.
i'm your size and have paddled an ultralight bob special since 1990 . Even used it for some tandem trips with a 180 lb partner. We were awful deep crossing Cedar l . in some big swells hah . Don't gloat too much on it being pretty as mine has been on some mean trips. I bought it with no gelcoat and just painted it . Ash trim has been replaced twice . But still using the cherry paddles i bought with the canoe
Thanks for not using the double blade paddle! What an awesome boat. Similar to the Northstar graphite. New owners of Nova Craft doing great things. Nice. Both of uou looked really good in that canoe.
Thanks a lot, it is a beauty, and those wood gunwales are as functional as they are beautiful from what I hear. I put it to some serious use on an interior Algonquin Park trout fishing trip this spring and did a couple vids on it. This boat weighs 44lbs but with a reinforced bottom of innegra and flexible epoxy, it can take moderate rapids too. I did a couple videos on that trip with this boat, here you go..... ruclips.net/p/PLdWkde9gml_-h_RcidZ1J-KdjCfQGu5IM
Wow I was watching a Nova Craft factory tour video and they made the same finish but with aluminum black trim and I said to myself if I got that finish I would get it with all wood (ash) trim.....and what do you know Jim Baird has got my canoe....... Ha-ha.........and it's as beautiful as I imagined it would be !!
I live right near Nova Craft Canoe Shop If I look out my window I can see the shop and factory. I have used lots of them in many places renting them I don't own one unfortunately because I have no real room to keep one but I really wish I did because there are times I would love to go for a paddle down the river. anyway that's a awesome looking Canoe.
I know you like your Nova Crafts, Jim. Well.....you're Canadian, eh? I currently paddle a Wenonah Heron 15' kevlar gel coat. Nothing special but it got me out of a plastic kayak and in a canoe. I currently have Northstar Firebird on order in the Blacklite layup with wood trim. Not a Prospector, but I'm excited to enhance my skills. Wish I had half your knowledge and half your paddling skills.
Great looking canoe. I have owned an ultralight bob special since 1990 . I am your size and have paddled it solo without any capacity problems. Have even used it tandem many times too. Its capacity is really quite good. Canoe weight is about 37 lbs with ash trim . Keep that canoe in a garage to save the trim.
Ya and I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Bob from many other people too. I did take it for a test paddle and I had very little freeboard and it felt really tippy. Nova told me that’s common for people if my height and weight. So, that’s why I went with the Prospector 15’ it’s awesome for sure but it would be nice if maybe there was something in between.
@@JimBairdAdventurer The bob always feels tippy the first time i am in it in a given season. But you get used to it quickly. Now i do sit on the floor a fair bit using a small board as a backrest up against the seat. Freeboard isn't really an issue as it doesn't take much wave action to drive me to shore in any canoe. My regular tandem is a langford nahanni ultralight, though i don't recall paddling it solo. But it is asymmetric of course
Looks like a good choice I am considering a purchase also. The Blue Steel material with wood gunwale combination is definitely beautiful. The only downside is the pain felt from the inevitable scratches
I actually have a vid with some WW and this canoe up. don’t take it down threes but ones and twos for sure. For threes I jump to my Expedition grade TuffStuff canoes or Royalex. Here’s a link to the vid where you can see me running white water in this canoe ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html
Like I said, I've used my !5 foot Blue steel Special since 2007 & my olny worry is which of my grand kids I leave it to. Thanks for the video Brian 78 (getting closer to 79)
Life is never that simple I love all four equally.The real question is"who will still love & use the canoe 15 or 25 years from now"? Thanks for the suggestion Brian 78
Nice canoe. I have been wanting a lighter canoe. Maybe that is the one for me too. I have the same trouble being a little heavier than the average bear.
I just ordered this boat today!! Thanks for the inspiration Jim, this video helped me to decide on both the Prospector 15 and the Blue Steel material...helps that I'm only an hour from London, and that the folks at Nova Craft are awesome to deal with. Can't wait to put some serious miles on mine!
Oh man, you are going to love it! Have you seen the Algonquin Trout fishing vids here on my channel? I put it to a good test on that trip. Tim R. Nipissing River loop back through Burntroot and up part of the Pet then up the Tim. Awesome route and I ran some rapids in it and got into some nice specs.
Haha, ya I’m not looking forward to that. With royalex and my tuffstuff expedition lay up boats, it’s inevitable as I’m paddling ww, so it’s almost welcomed....with this boat, I’m scared to mess it up.
@@JimBairdAdventurer Dolly Varden trout salmanid beautiful specie.catch any? I used to have Brookie's as pets on my property. I could feed them by hand.. no shit! Just so you know...hahahaha
Thanks, I used in in my Algonquin Park Trout Fishing trip and those vids are up. Ran a few rapids and carried it for vet 2k without putting it down in one portage because it’s light. Love it!
Wilderness soloing for a big fella (240lbs), including lakes and some whitewater; would you recommend this Prospector 15 or a 16? I`m probably considering the normal tuff stuff -option, even if this Blue Steel - baby looks (and weights) just amazing too. 16 would be suitable to bring an occasional bow paddler with for a trip once in a while, which would not be the case with the 15?
Hello, Thanks for all the great adventures. We are subscribed to both you and your brothers channels. I can't wait for the next installment of your Manitoba to Hudson Bay trip. I am in the market for a lighter canoe. We have an 18ft fiberglass Hofgen canoe. They used to be made quite close to us in Michigan. How has the blue steel material held up for you? and what would you recommend. I'm your size I'd be looking for a tandem for my wife and I and about a weeks worth of gear mainly flat water but maybe a class 1 once in a while. Thanks again for the awesome adventures!
Ya, the blue Steel has a sheet of inegra on the bottom and is included with flexible epoxy so despite its lightweight, it can take some lumps on the bottom. I’m not sure what model would be the best for you but you can’t go wrong with a prospector
That's a beautiful canoe for sure, congratz!! But something is missing.... no drainage gaps on the inside gunnel? i might be wrong tho. Anyway... nice boat :)
Awesome boat great video what are your thoughts on the Churchill paddle you're using I've been considering it but it's hard to find much information or reviews on
It’s excellent. I used it on a tough trip in Algonquin - Tim river, Nipissing River through Burntroot Lake and Petawawa. Loop. I even found it to be good in the rapids. It’s got an offset blade though (bent shaft, if you have an issue with that. The journey is awesome too
I shopped a for a great while trying to find what I thought would be a perfect canoe for me. I have paddled only a few times so I consider myself to be a novice. Anyway, I came across this video and almost immediately fell in love with the Blue Steel Prospector 15. I just got back yesterday from driving 500 miles to pick up what I think was the only brand new Nova Craft blue steel 15' Prospector canoe east of the mississippi. I was wondering Jim if you can share with me the types of water you've had your prospector in? It's hard to find any information about what the boat can handle. The Nova Craft site has a chart that shows that the blue steel is as durable as their tuff stuff. I have no desire to take the boat down a whitewater stream but wonder how it would handle running over a gravel bar if you didn't see it in time. I appreciate information or tips you are willing to share. This is my dream canoe and my wife's retirement gift to me.
That’s great, youre going to love it! Ya, gravel bars sre no oroblem other than scratches. The bottom if the blue steel is strong, its reinforced with a layer of innegra and infkueed wirh flexable epoxy. The sides are ridgid and light weight but not meant to widtstand impact. I’ve run some class 1 and 2 rapids in mine. Inactually show a few of thr rapids I run in my Blue Steel 15’ Prospector in this video here ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html hooe this helps and congrats on the new canoe!
@@JimBairdAdventurer Thanks so much for that video. It told me SO MUCH about my new Prospector. I wish again to thank both Nova Craft and you for your generousity in offering to take new Nova Craft Blue Steel 15' Prospector canoe owners on a 3 night fishing/camping trip when the border opens back up and the flies and Canadian national birds (mosquitos) are in check and the temps are cool to cold. I think it's a fantastic gesture on your part to make new Nova Craft Prospector 15 owners feel welcome to the family. I'll keep watching for that border to open so I can take a road trip up from North Carolina the land of boring fishing.
Hello Jim, I am debating between Blue Steel and Tuffstuff, I was wondering how it went in whitewater. I have seen you using it in some of your expedition except the fishing trip. Like you I am looking for a solo with my dogs for fishing and some expedition with or without whitewater,
The bottom of the blue steel has a layer of innegra and is tough. I use it to solo long class 1s and (fairly forgiving) long 2s. The prospector does have a bit of a rocker so, it’s a lot easier to dogs ricks than a faster cano with no rocker. The sides of the blue steel are not strong so if you hit a rock in rapids really hard and just off of the bottom where the hull starts to curve up towards the gunwales it could be an issue and the sides are very light bout not at tough. The blue steel is not terribly lighter then tuff stuff (non expedition grade) at first glance but it’s amazing how much lighter even a few less pounds feels over the long haul. For doing longer length, spring trout fishing trips in Algonquin or Temagami for example that see some more basic whitewater it’s the way to go, particularly if you want to bring your dogs. It’s light enough to be able to single carry too if you travel super light while the tuff stuff may be a little harder to single carry with. Overall the tuff stuff will be more versatile and you can run much more serious, boulder strewn 2s and not-so-bouldery 3s with it. So, I guess it’s really a tough choice. I’m super happy with the blue steel and I have a P15’ in Royalex I take on my WW trips.
Andre I was literally in the exact same boat as you about 2 months ago until I purchased my Tuff Stuff Expedition. I was having an extremely hard time in my debate between Blue Steel and Tuff Stuff. After a bunch of research, I soon realized if you want to do white water and anything over class 2 rapids then you should consider the Tuff Stuff Expedition material. I personally think for the extra doe which isn't a crazy amount, its worth it to go with the expedition material... That way you know you are covered and you don't have to be worried about the boat taking a beating. I ended up going with a P16 Tuff Stuff Expedition with Ash Gunnels and custom colour gel coat that resembles the blue steel... can't wait, I'll probably throw a review up on youtube at some point. Cheers
@@mattsmith6297 Hello Matt, thank you for your reply. I ordered the Blue Steel, main reasons is weight after sharing with my wife, I will use this boat for fishing and canoeing in La Verendry Quebec and Algonquin Woodland Caribou, and similar I already own 5 canoes in Royalex, an Esquif Canyon for whitewater, to solos a Nova Craft Ocoee and a Bell ProdigyX and Two tandem play boat Mad River Caption However, yes it is still a debate but I can order a Ford both Sheers
Do you just use two crossbars on your 4Runner, or do you add another rack in front of the factory rack? The rack is set so bar back on my 4Runner, that I wonder if there is enough support at the front of the roof...
Congratulations , Jim and Tori, lovely boat, many great times to you. . I have a 16 prospector in Tuff stuff. Was out today as a matter of facr. I notice though that being assymetrical in shape, as yours might be, it would be faster to paddle near the center carry thwart from the rear seat end. Also those gunnels in wood are beatifull. I wish mine had them , KCHappyCamper #21 fireside chat has some info on protection of wood gunnels at around 7 minutes..
NewLife good tip on that video, the P15 is actually symmetrical in shape. The thing I’m not as big as a fan of for paddling closer to the middle is that the boat is wider there, so switching sides isn’t as easy and in the event you need to do a fast cross draw in a rapids, you could injure your shoulder trying to reach over (don’t ask me how I know this). I think that trimming the boat evenly would make it more efficient so when I have gear, I’ll pack it all as far forward as I can.
@@JimBairdAdventurer You`ve probably seen this before but I take 2 waterproof bags , fill them with water at the lake and put them in the bow. Really does wonders for the trim..
NewLife never tried that before but for my whitewater day trips it would really help I’m sure as I don’t carry gear and back-ferrying is a challenge when trimmed stern heavy.
@@JimBairdAdventurer Jim , Just to clarify , I use "dry bags" to hold the water, they are attachable to the canoe and if you upset they will not become dead weight. Be well.
Beauty boat...that moment though when you realize you spent thousands on a boat that does the same thing the boat for 500 bucks on CL does is a bummer.
What’s CL? I don’t know, maybe a used Grumman for $800, they’d be more as of late though. But ya, maybe for your average Joe you’re right but definitely not for me lol. Just laughing while imagining bringing a $500 canoe on some of my whitewater adventures in the Canadian north. I’d be interested to see how quick you’d be with the smug comments after attempting to cross Labrador in a $500 canoe.
Ya, the Prospector is more of an all-around hull design as opposed to flat water specific. It can also hold over a month’s worth of provisions and gear if soloing. This “Blue Steel” material is also quite light but. I’m 6’5” and about 160 lbs so I need a bigger boat because canoes such as the Nova Craft Bob Special or Swift Osprey are too small and tippy for someone my size.
Hey Jim, I'm 6'4 and 280lbs. I've just started doing some multi-day paddles with rental canoes in BC and wondering what you suggest. I would likely usually have a kid in the middle. Not sure if you check comments but any tips helps. thanks.
Had a bit of a leek in it under the stat I sit in when soloing. Mostly from getting in and out in shallow water and pushing off. Easy fix though. It’s been used primarily for flat water trips since it’s maiden voyage which included running Allan Rapids in entirety on the Nipissing River and more.
The gun whales need a sanding and oiling as I’ve never done that and it spends a lot of time outside though a do keep it in my tent shed in winter. If I keep abusing the stern so much, it might need a skid plate next year. I too regularly sit in on when it’s on a rock and then push off and have run some more rapids in it since my first interior Algonquin trout fishing trip. All in all it’s holding up great.
Michael O'Donoghue that’s pretty awesome, I have nothing of that scale really but I live at the base of what’s basically a point with a large lake-like bay on one side and the river on the other. The culvert bridge is how we cross into the “point”.
How have you enjoyed the canoe. I am heading to London to look at this very model. We are the same size. Do you have any advise for me based on your experience?
Love the canoe, i went for this ine as having a higher center of gravity and being a larger person, the initial canoe inwas going for was the Bob Special but I was a little too big for it. I also like the mild to miderste whitewater capibility the prospector in the Blue Steel lay up offers. You can see it in use here on this demanding trip i did with it last spring. ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html
@@JimBairdAdventurer just back from Nova Craft. Nice picture of you BTW!) A guy manning the office suggested a 16' Tuff Stuff for me. I mentioned you, and your liking the 15. Adam Shoalts loves it as well, I hear. I'll have to order one here from my local distributor and will get it in around 8 weeks. Bought a 65 paddle. What do you use? Any feedback regarding the tough stuff or should I just spring for BS. I am a bit worried about gel coat repairs and you say your boat is low maintenance.
Good, I initially used it on a big interior Algonquin trip and ran Allen’s Rapids and several others on the Nipissing River in it. The Ash gunwales probably could have used a little more tlc than I’ve shown them.
Thanks Jim. I’m a bit older and the appeal of a lighter canoe able to handle some rapids versus TuffStuff or TuffStuff Expedition is high. If it has held up for you, then I am sure it will be fine for me. Keep up the awesome videos and trips! It’s a blast watching you out there!
David Cloutier I think I go with a 34” for flat-water. I like my paddle length to be about from my armpit to the ground when standing. For ww I go longer.
Jim Baird - Adventurer. Your new canoe is amazing man! Next question, do you ever use a drysuit during early Spring? I just bought one since I am going on a 50 mile trip in Maine in less than two weeks. Wondering if you use one?
Hi Jim. Beautiful boat. I am considering the same boat. Have you banged it into rocks yet. I am old and would like a light boat but would want to run easy ww and do upstream work too. What do you think now that you have had it a while?
Beautiful craft. I'm sure you'll enjoy. I just have to say to a remark you made in your video ... it's not possible to be "surrounded" on 3 sides. Umm, then you're not surrounded. :) Just had to point that out. Do I nit pick much? Nahhh. Carry on ...
Nice looking canoe! Glad I found your channel through Shawn's and your recent trip to his place! btw what's with the audio being only in the left channel?
Jim did you cut that paddle ? I got the same one , i'am 6'4 235 just wondering if you left it at length and didn't cut shaft down. Thanks for another video , enjoy the new boat !
That’s a thing of beauty! Congratulations 🎉
Thanks!
Congratulations!! Enjoy the new canoe 🚣
Thanks a lot!!
What beautiful boats Nova Craft makes for a big company. You can just see the excitement in your eyes, like a kid on Christmas morning haha. Love it
Beautiful canoe, love the wood accents. Modern Technology with old world finishes, a perfect combination!!!
Doug Gibson thanks! Indeed it is
Awesome boat and your gal felt so confident in it that she conquered her claustrophobia!!!!!
Beautiful boat! It is always so exciting getting a new boat, also happy to see ice out up north!
Alter Eco Adventures indeed it is! Though the ice isn’t off the big lakes yet.
@@JimBairdAdventurer Oh man! Come on ice out!
Great choice Jim! Excellent choice to go with wood gunwales! Wood gunwales provide permanent spring-tension shape to the boat, and actually contribute to that beautiful prospector shape, and if kept well oiled (I use boiled linseed oil), they will last a lifetime. Wood gunwales can take a beating on serious backcountry trips, and always retain shape, whereas aluminum gunwales will dent, bend and never return to original shape. Wood gunwales are really nice on the hands and the paddle shaft. If ever serious damaged (e.g. a rapids pin that snaps the gunwales), wood gunwales are easily repaired in the bush en route, whereas aluminum gunwales are a nightmare to fix. That Blue Steel 15 foot NC prospector is on my list to test paddle, as I need to find a lighter big capacity solo boat to replace my old small 16 Trailhead prospectors which I am finding a tad heavy in my older age :-) Thanks for showing it on the water, it looks like a superb big capacity solo tripping boat, and its on my list for potential future purchase. I am sure you will custom outfit it to your preference, e.g. glued in interior tie down loops and lashing points, foam knee pads, etc. Would like to see what you come up with in a future video. One thing I noticed was the painter line attachments. I don't know if its a strong bolt into the hull that will not pull out under extreme load when lining and tracking? (since I have not seen their boats up close). I drilled my kevlar boat through the flotation tanks (which of course voids the warranty!), and glued in a 1/2 inch PVC pipe for a "Tug Eyes" type of system. Its hard mentally to bring oneself to drill a boat like that, but my boat's hardware for lining was not strong enough. If NC's bolt system and backing of the bolts inside the hull for those painter line attachments is super-strong, then no worries. When lining or tracking, when accidents happen and the boat fills with water, suddenly there is a ton of weight that has to be hauled on, and one's entire life support system in the boat is dependent on the strength of the lines and the hardware attachment to the boat. :-)
I didn’t even know that about the wood gunwales. Makes sense, they also just look awesome. Where do you get that oil?
@@JimBairdAdventurer from linseeds! lol. It's a common wood finish available at most hardware or paint stores.
I’d like to see how u outfit the new boat. Congrats 🛶🤠🛶
Beautiful canoe. Lovin'g your excitement in getting it..
Steve Ferrell thanks haha, ya I was pretty fired up...still am
Just watched nova craft build said liked the blue.you got wood trim..prettiest.They were all nice
You should be very pleased with your canoe, it is spectacular. I am very impressed with it. I hope you have many great hours canoeing in it.
Oh man, it is great. If you see my Algonquin Park Trout fishing videos up on my channel, you can see it in action. I used it to run some moderate rapids too. It spoiled me though because now, every time I pick up my other 15' Prospector in Royalex, or my 17' Prospector in TuffStuff Expedition, they feel real heavy!
Yes, I watched that video. It was a great trip. It reminded me of spring fishing on the Cains River in New Brunswick. One thing I noticed is that your canoe doesn't have a keel running down the center of the bottom. I guess you don't need one?
Now that is a beautiful canoe yes sir
Wow beautiful boat and I’m loving the color that wood grain brings it all together, and man was she smooth on that water looked like she went nice and straight
The Rhode Island Hiker thanks a lot. It does track well and is also pretty manoeuvrable - gear all around hull design
Dude that boat is awesome!!!!
Thanks a lot, it’s been perfect for me and my trips that aren’t so whitewater focused.
I love my nova craft canoe too.
Their string seats are the most comfortable I’ve ever sat on too.
That thing is stunning!!!
Indeed! Thanks a lot
Hey Jim~ just got off the phone with Steve at Novacraft... I'm ordering a Bob Special in Blue Steel... hopefully with cherry gunnels and seats and yoke~ wahooo! Couldn't be more excited.
Now that is going to be amazing
Ash gunnels and black. Looks very similar to my boat. So pretty 👍
Congratulations! Now you have to get some big fish.
Pat Bell that’s step 2
Jim Baird - Adventurer can’t wait to see more of your adventures
Good to see you both out enjoying your new toy!!
Very nice canoe Jim. Handles nicely. Wesley will feel at home in it soon enough. Congratulations
Pretty dang awesome! 👍👍
The canoe color is really nice and the wood goes great with it, nice boat!
Wesley gonna have some wicked fun later on...lol, all that cool stuff..
Thanks a lot
i'm your size and have paddled an ultralight bob special since 1990 . Even used it for some tandem trips with a 180 lb partner. We were awful deep crossing Cedar l . in some big swells hah . Don't gloat too much on it being pretty as mine has been on some mean trips. I bought it with no gelcoat and just painted it . Ash trim has been replaced twice . But still using the cherry paddles i bought with the canoe
Thanks for not using the double blade paddle! What an awesome boat. Similar to the Northstar graphite. New owners of Nova Craft doing great things. Nice. Both of uou looked really good in that canoe.
Holy moly what a beaut. Looks like you know a thing or two about paddling it as well. Dang! I’m a bit jealous bud!!
Very nice looking boat mate 👍
Thanks a lot, it is a beauty, and those wood gunwales are as functional as they are beautiful from what I hear. I put it to some serious use on an interior Algonquin Park trout fishing trip this spring and did a couple vids on it. This boat weighs 44lbs but with a reinforced bottom of innegra and flexible epoxy, it can take moderate rapids too. I did a couple videos on that trip with this boat, here you go..... ruclips.net/p/PLdWkde9gml_-h_RcidZ1J-KdjCfQGu5IM
That is beautiful!!
Nova Craft makes very nice, quality canoes. You're going to love this one Jim!
Wow I was watching a Nova Craft factory tour video and they made the same finish but with aluminum black trim and I said to myself if I got that finish I would get it with all wood (ash) trim.....and what do you know Jim Baird has got my canoe....... Ha-ha.........and it's as beautiful as I imagined it would be !!
Awesome canoe!
Lenne Longe thanks a lot!! I’m definitely happy with it
Sweet ride!
M Glennon thanks a lot! It’s a beauty but the lightness definitely spoils you.
Sweet ride Jim... she is a beaut... Dennis... Aka...Canoehound
Clean graceful functional. Impressive
I live right near Nova Craft Canoe Shop If I look out my window I can see the shop and factory. I have used lots of them in many places renting them I don't own one unfortunately because I have no real room to keep one but I really wish I did because there are times I would love to go for a paddle down the river. anyway that's a awesome looking Canoe.
Very cool, ya it’s a beautiful boat. So lite too.
My 16’ prospector was stolen years ago and I still miss it. This looks like a great option to my current 16’ old town stillwater replacement!
Good looking canoe Jim. I like the color.
Whoa..she looks good on you! 😎
Gorgeous canoe.
I know you like your Nova Crafts, Jim. Well.....you're Canadian, eh? I currently paddle a Wenonah Heron 15' kevlar gel coat. Nothing special but it got me out of a plastic kayak and in a canoe. I currently have Northstar Firebird on order in the Blacklite layup with wood trim. Not a Prospector, but I'm excited to enhance my skills. Wish I had half your knowledge and half your paddling skills.
Just out for a rip there eh bud? Beautiful canoe, jealous!
Andrew Mercer ooooh f-ya bud
I'm looking forward to your first adventure in the boat.
Wow 35lbs !! Awesome
👍🏻🇺🇸
Great looking canoe. I have owned an ultralight bob special since 1990 . I am your size and have paddled it solo without any capacity problems. Have even used it tandem many times too. Its capacity is really quite good. Canoe weight is about 37 lbs with ash trim . Keep that canoe in a garage to save the trim.
Ya and I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Bob from many other people too. I did take it for a test paddle and I had very little freeboard and it felt really tippy. Nova told me that’s common for people if my height and weight. So, that’s why I went with the Prospector 15’ it’s awesome for sure but it would be nice if maybe there was something in between.
@@JimBairdAdventurer The bob always feels tippy the first time i am in it in a given season. But you get used to it quickly. Now i do sit on the floor a fair bit using a small board as a backrest up against the seat. Freeboard isn't really an issue as it doesn't take much wave action to drive me to shore in any canoe. My regular tandem is a langford nahanni ultralight, though i don't recall paddling it solo. But it is asymmetric of course
solo and empty seemed to balance out much better for the better half, Jim!
That’s a sharp looking boat Jim
Super nice Jim...love the wood trim....congrats on your second baby! heh
Looks like a good choice I am considering a purchase also. The Blue Steel material with wood gunwale combination is definitely beautiful. The only downside is the pain felt from the inevitable scratches
Great review. When you get it on some rapids, please share again. I know you don't want to scratch it, but I gotta know how it will do in 2s or 3s.
I actually have a vid with some WW and this canoe up. don’t take it down threes but ones and twos for sure. For threes I jump to my Expedition grade TuffStuff canoes or Royalex. Here’s a link to the vid where you can see me running white water in this canoe ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html
@@JimBairdAdventurer thank you! You have a great thing going on. It gives me something to shoot for.
Beautiful boat! Wet entry only for a while I imagine.
Like I said, I've used my !5 foot Blue steel Special since 2007 & my olny worry is which of my grand kids I leave it to. Thanks for the video Brian 78 (getting closer to 79)
Brian Spencer I would go with which ever one you love the most ;)
Life is never that simple I love all four equally.The real question is"who will still love & use the canoe 15 or 25 years from now"? Thanks for the suggestion Brian 78
Brian Spencer that is the truth Brian and I would do the same.
Sweet Canoe.
Thanks a lot 👍👍
Nice looking boat, bet it's scratched by now.
It is! Ran some rapids with it
@@JimBairdAdventurer that's what it's made for, yeah.
I want get canoe eventually.Wish closer tory class
Nice canoe. I have been wanting a lighter canoe. Maybe that is the one for me too. I have the same trouble being a little heavier than the average bear.
I just ordered this boat today!! Thanks for the inspiration Jim, this video helped me to decide on both the Prospector 15 and the Blue Steel material...helps that I'm only an hour from London, and that the folks at Nova Craft are awesome to deal with. Can't wait to put some serious miles on mine!
Oh man, you are going to love it! Have you seen the Algonquin Trout fishing vids here on my channel? I put it to a good test on that trip. Tim R. Nipissing River loop back through Burntroot and up part of the Pet then up the Tim. Awesome route and I ran some rapids in it and got into some nice specs.
@@JimBairdAdventurer oh yah, loved those episodes! Was awesome to see what that boat could handle. Can't wait to get it!
First scratch is always the hardest.
Haha, ya I’m not looking forward to that. With royalex and my tuffstuff expedition lay up boats, it’s inevitable as I’m paddling ww, so it’s almost welcomed....with this boat, I’m scared to mess it up.
I lived that you were so excited to paddle it that you just left the owners manual strapped to it.
The canoe is beautiful.. you should have done a continuous loop of you going across the screen.. there he goes again. Iol
rmacsr maddog hahaha, that would have been pretty good actually. Thanks a lot, it is definitely a beautiful and efficient boat
@@JimBairdAdventurer Dolly Varden trout salmanid beautiful specie.catch any? I used to have Brookie's as pets on my property.
I could feed them by hand.. no shit! Just so you know...hahahaha
Sweet!
Thanks, I used in in my Algonquin Park Trout Fishing trip and those vids are up. Ran a few rapids and carried it for vet 2k without putting it down in one portage because it’s light. Love it!
3rd time watching. Want one
It’s a beauty!
Thanks...........JJ....
Wilderness soloing for a big fella (240lbs), including lakes and some whitewater; would you recommend this Prospector 15 or a 16? I`m probably considering the normal tuff stuff -option, even if this Blue Steel - baby looks (and weights) just amazing too. 16 would be suitable to bring an occasional bow paddler with for a trip once in a while, which would not be the case with the 15?
If yiu’re soloing is go with a 15 for soloing. It does come set up for tandem
Wow.
👍👍🤠
Hello, Thanks for all the great adventures. We are subscribed to both you and your brothers channels. I can't wait for the next installment of your Manitoba to Hudson Bay trip. I am in the market for a lighter canoe. We have an 18ft fiberglass Hofgen canoe. They used to be made quite close to us in Michigan. How has the blue steel material held up for you? and what would you recommend. I'm your size I'd be looking for a tandem for my wife and I and about a weeks worth of gear mainly flat water but maybe a class 1 once in a while. Thanks again for the awesome adventures!
Ya, the blue Steel has a sheet of inegra on the bottom and is included with flexible epoxy so despite its lightweight, it can take some lumps on the bottom. I’m not sure what model would be the best for you but you can’t go wrong with a prospector
That's a beautiful canoe for sure, congratz!! But something is missing.... no drainage gaps on the inside gunnel? i might be wrong tho. Anyway... nice boat :)
Awesome boat great video what are your thoughts on the Churchill paddle you're using I've been considering it but it's hard to find much information or reviews on
It’s excellent. I used it on a tough trip in Algonquin - Tim river, Nipissing River through Burntroot Lake and Petawawa. Loop. I even found it to be good in the rapids. It’s got an offset blade though (bent shaft, if you have an issue with that. The journey is awesome too
I shopped a for a great while trying to find what I thought would be a perfect canoe for me. I have paddled only a few times so I consider myself to be a novice. Anyway, I came across this video and almost immediately fell in love with the Blue Steel Prospector 15. I just got back yesterday from driving 500 miles to pick up what I think was the only brand new Nova Craft blue steel 15' Prospector canoe east of the mississippi.
I was wondering Jim if you can share with me the types of water you've had your prospector in? It's hard to find any information about what the boat can handle. The Nova Craft site has a chart that shows that the blue steel is as durable as their tuff stuff. I have no desire to take the boat down a whitewater stream but wonder how it would handle running over a gravel bar if you didn't see it in time. I appreciate information or tips you are willing to share. This is my dream canoe and my wife's retirement gift to me.
That’s great, youre going to love it! Ya, gravel bars sre no oroblem other than scratches. The bottom if the blue steel is strong, its reinforced with a layer of innegra and infkueed wirh flexable epoxy. The sides are ridgid and light weight but not meant to widtstand impact. I’ve run some class 1 and 2 rapids in mine. Inactually show a few of thr rapids I run in my Blue Steel 15’ Prospector in this video here ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html hooe this helps and congrats on the new canoe!
@@JimBairdAdventurer Thanks so much for that video. It told me SO MUCH about my new Prospector. I wish again to thank both Nova Craft and you for your generousity in offering to take new Nova Craft Blue Steel 15' Prospector canoe owners on a 3 night fishing/camping trip when the border opens back up and the flies and Canadian national birds (mosquitos) are in check and the temps are cool to cold. I think it's a fantastic gesture on your part to make new Nova Craft Prospector 15 owners feel welcome to the family. I'll keep watching for that border to open so I can take a road trip up from North Carolina the land of boring fishing.
New toy!! Ya buddy!
Very nice looking Canoe. I was wondering what the price of it would be ?
Hello Jim, I am debating between Blue Steel and Tuffstuff, I was wondering how it went in whitewater. I have seen you using it in some of your expedition except the fishing trip. Like you I am looking for a solo with my dogs for fishing and some expedition with or without whitewater,
The bottom of the blue steel has a layer of innegra and is tough. I use it to solo long class 1s and (fairly forgiving) long 2s. The prospector does have a bit of a rocker so, it’s a lot easier to dogs ricks than a faster cano with no rocker. The sides of the blue steel are not strong so if you hit a rock in rapids really hard and just off of the bottom where the hull starts to curve up towards the gunwales it could be an issue and the sides are very light bout not at tough. The blue steel is not terribly lighter then tuff stuff (non expedition grade) at first glance but it’s amazing how much lighter even a few less pounds feels over the long haul. For doing longer length, spring trout fishing trips in Algonquin or Temagami for example that see some more basic whitewater it’s the way to go, particularly if you want to bring your dogs. It’s light enough to be able to single carry too if you travel super light while the tuff stuff may be a little harder to single carry with. Overall the tuff stuff will be more versatile and you can run much more serious, boulder strewn 2s and not-so-bouldery 3s with it. So, I guess it’s really a tough choice. I’m super happy with the blue steel and I have a P15’ in Royalex I take on my WW trips.
Thank you Jim,
Looking forward to new videos.
No prob man!
Andre I was literally in the exact same boat as you about 2 months ago until I purchased my Tuff Stuff Expedition. I was having an extremely hard time in my debate between Blue Steel and Tuff Stuff. After a bunch of research, I soon realized if you want to do white water and anything over class 2 rapids then you should consider the Tuff Stuff Expedition material. I personally think for the extra doe which isn't a crazy amount, its worth it to go with the expedition material... That way you know you are covered and you don't have to be worried about the boat taking a beating. I ended up going with a P16 Tuff Stuff Expedition with Ash Gunnels and custom colour gel coat that resembles the blue steel... can't wait, I'll probably throw a review up on youtube at some point. Cheers
@@mattsmith6297 Hello Matt, thank you for your reply. I ordered the Blue Steel, main reasons is weight after sharing with my wife, I will use this boat for fishing and canoeing in La Verendry Quebec and Algonquin Woodland Caribou, and similar
I already own 5 canoes in Royalex, an Esquif Canyon for whitewater, to solos a Nova Craft Ocoee and a Bell ProdigyX and Two tandem play boat Mad River Caption
However, yes it is still a debate but I can order a Ford both
Sheers
hey Jim I was wonder what type of knife/Sheath you had on your life jacket
I forget, I’ve had it for so long and never use it so it stays sharp
Did you look at the Northstar line in IXP?? Your thoughts on IXP?
I haven’t really but I’ve heard good things
That is a beautiful looking canoe, what is its max carrying capacity?
Awesome I wish I hat one. What is the price for a canoe like that.
Do you just use two crossbars on your 4Runner, or do you add another rack in front of the factory rack? The rack is set so bar back on my 4Runner, that I wonder if there is enough support at the front of the roof...
Just use the stock racks but when putting two canoe on, I’ll tie 2x4s to them that overhang on the sides and put the canoes on side by side.
Thanks Jim!
Lighter and tougher than Royalex, doesn't get brittle with age, easier to repair. What's not to like?
It’s great but you’re probably thinking of the TuffStuff material that’s tuff like Royalex
@@JimBairdAdventurer I'm thinking of tuff stuff, which is light and tougher than Royalex.
Congratulations , Jim and Tori, lovely boat, many great times to you. . I have a 16 prospector in Tuff stuff. Was out today as a matter of facr. I notice though that being assymetrical in shape, as yours might be, it would be faster to paddle near the center carry thwart from the rear seat end. Also those gunnels in wood are beatifull. I wish mine had them , KCHappyCamper #21 fireside chat has some info on protection of wood gunnels at around 7 minutes..
NewLife good tip on that video, the P15 is actually symmetrical in shape. The thing I’m not as big as a fan of for paddling closer to the middle is that the boat is wider there, so switching sides isn’t as easy and in the event you need to do a fast cross draw in a rapids, you could injure your shoulder trying to reach over (don’t ask me how I know this). I think that trimming the boat evenly would make it more efficient so when I have gear, I’ll pack it all as far forward as I can.
@@JimBairdAdventurer You`ve probably seen this before but I take 2 waterproof bags , fill them with water at the lake and put them in the bow. Really does wonders for the trim..
NewLife never tried that before but for my whitewater day trips it would really help I’m sure as I don’t carry gear and back-ferrying is a challenge when trimmed stern heavy.
@@JimBairdAdventurer Jim , Just to clarify , I use "dry bags" to hold the water, they are attachable to the canoe and if you upset they will not become dead weight. Be well.
Beauty boat...that moment though when you realize you spent thousands on a boat that does the same thing the boat for 500 bucks on CL does is a bummer.
What’s CL? I don’t know, maybe a used Grumman for $800, they’d be more as of late though. But ya, maybe for your average Joe you’re right but definitely not for me lol. Just laughing while imagining bringing a $500 canoe on some of my whitewater adventures in the Canadian north. I’d be interested to see how quick you’d be with the smug comments after attempting to cross Labrador in a $500 canoe.
Nice boat. Love Nova Craft. Would you say the Bob Special would be too small to be a tandem for a weekender for 2 adults?
Looks like it has a lot of rocker. I like it but I would want something a little faster with less width.
Ya, the Prospector is more of an all-around hull design as opposed to flat water specific. It can also hold over a month’s worth of provisions and gear if soloing. This “Blue Steel” material is also quite light but. I’m 6’5” and about 160 lbs so I need a bigger boat because canoes such as the Nova Craft Bob Special or Swift Osprey are too small and tippy for someone my size.
I want one lol!
Hey Jim, I'm 6'4 and 280lbs. I've just started doing some multi-day paddles with rental canoes in BC and wondering what you suggest. I would likely usually have a kid in the middle. Not sure if you check comments but any tips helps. thanks.
Nice looking canoe. Are you paddling that one on our trip?
My Self Reliance I think it’s probably my best bet for the trip out of the boats I have at hand.
So after 3 years any issues. with the blue steel bumping off rocky river bottoms or do you just use it for lakes?
Had a bit of a leek in it under the stat I sit in when soloing. Mostly from getting in and out in shallow water and pushing off. Easy fix though. It’s been used primarily for flat water trips since it’s maiden voyage which included running Allan Rapids in entirety on the Nipissing River and more.
A little over a year later. How is it holding up and do you still love it?
The gun whales need a sanding and oiling as I’ve never done that and it spends a lot of time outside though a do keep it in my tent shed in winter. If I keep abusing the stern so much, it might need a skid plate next year. I too regularly sit in on when it’s on a rock and then push off and have run some more rapids in it since my first interior Algonquin trout fishing trip. All in all it’s holding up great.
@@JimBairdAdventurer ruclips.net/video/PYrehHRTz4w/видео.html
how durable is this material compared to fiberglass or sp3? for rocky creeks where rocks are everywhere and its going to take a beating
If I was younger I would by one of these, (maybe a 16), in a heartbeat. Lovely canoe. How is it holding up?
I live on a Peninsula, surrounded on Three Sides by what is basically The Indian Ocean
Michael O'Donoghue that’s pretty awesome, I have nothing of that scale really but I live at the base of what’s basically a point with a large lake-like bay on one side and the river on the other. The culvert bridge is how we cross into the “point”.
How have you enjoyed the canoe. I am heading to London to look at this very model. We are the same size. Do you have any advise for me based on your experience?
Love the canoe, i went for this ine as having a higher center of gravity and being a larger person, the initial canoe inwas going for was the Bob Special but I was a little too big for it. I also like the mild to miderste whitewater capibility the prospector in the Blue Steel lay up offers. You can see it in use here on this demanding trip i did with it last spring. ruclips.net/video/0qubvKVBohE/видео.html
@@JimBairdAdventurer just back from Nova Craft. Nice picture of you BTW!)
A guy manning the office suggested a 16' Tuff Stuff for me. I mentioned you, and your liking the 15. Adam Shoalts loves it as well, I hear.
I'll have to order one here from my local distributor and will get it in around 8 weeks.
Bought a 65 paddle. What do you use? Any feedback regarding the tough stuff or should I just spring for BS. I am a bit worried about gel coat repairs and you say your boat is low maintenance.
If its as tough as the packaging, you're in luck. Ha!
How has the blue steel held up over the years?
Good, I initially used it on a big interior Algonquin trip and ran Allen’s Rapids and several others on the Nipissing River in it. The Ash gunwales probably could have used a little more tlc than I’ve shown them.
Thanks Jim. I’m a bit older and the appeal of a lighter canoe able to handle some rapids versus TuffStuff or TuffStuff Expedition is high. If it has held up for you, then I am sure it will be fine for me. Keep up the awesome videos and trips! It’s a blast watching you out there!
What’s the cost on one of these babies? It’s a sweet boat ! Thanks
Thanks, I believe it’s $3,800 Canadian if I remember correctly.
@@JimBairdAdventurer wow that’s is expensive. Thanks Jim . I sure enjoy your channel.👍🇨🇦
Jim what size paddle are you using? Beautiful boat! Looks like you slightly heal the boat. When you solo, do you always kneel and heal the boat?
David Cloutier I think I go with a 34” for flat-water. I like my paddle length to be about from my armpit to the ground when standing. For ww I go longer.
Jim Baird - Adventurer. Your new canoe is amazing man! Next question, do you ever use a drysuit during early Spring? I just bought one since I am going on a 50 mile trip in Maine in less than two weeks. Wondering if you use one?
Hi Jim. Beautiful boat. I am considering the same boat. Have you banged it into rocks yet. I am old and would like a light boat but would want to run easy ww and do upstream work too. What do you think now that you have had it a while?
Beautiful craft. I'm sure you'll enjoy. I just have to say to a remark you made in your video ... it's not possible to be "surrounded" on 3 sides. Umm, then you're not surrounded. :) Just had to point that out. Do I nit pick much? Nahhh. Carry on ...
Would that be considered an oxymoron?
@@JimBairdAdventurer Why yes ... yes I believe it would. :)
How does the dark blue steel interior react to hot sunlight?
Nice looking canoe! Glad I found your channel through Shawn's and your recent trip to his place! btw what's with the audio being only in the left channel?
Jim did you cut that paddle ? I got the same one , i'am 6'4 235 just wondering if you left it at length and didn't cut shaft down. Thanks for another video , enjoy the new boat !