Ordered a canoe cart-will report after Michigan Fish-In

[ohiotuber]

After learning of a fine big bluegill fishery in Grayling, MI that is down a 1/4 mile path, I went shopping for a canoe cart, which is an item I would have purchased soon. Found one on Ebay (no current FAOL sponsors list one) that looks impressive, & the seller was EXTREMELY fast with replies to 2 questions I had. I will post a report/review after the Michigan Fish-In.
Mike

[LadyFisher]

We would like to have some Sponsors for our paddling folks, who/which companies would you personally recommend? Yes, you can post your suggestions here (or send them to me) publisher@flyanglersonline.com

I've already tried Hobie and they informed me they don't need to advertise.

[Jim Hatch]

Hi Ladyfisher,

Back in April we held a Paddlefest here to kick off our countys paddle
trails website and book. I coordinated with most of the name outfits
months in advance but the consensus seemed to be that they really did
not need any more exposure. Several of the large companies are
actually local and still could not be bothered.*G* I guess they are sitting
pretty. Anyway, the paddlefest was well organized, held in a beautiful
public park setting with great paddling waters. Attendance was great and
the smaller outfitters and dealers who supported the Paddlefest did a
bang up business. They are looking forward to next years event. My
point is, the big guys seem pretty well established and seem to have
their advertising dollars already allocated. There are however a number
of smaller outfitters who are fighting hard for thier share of the profits.
They often represent several major manufacturers as well as a host of
popular accessories for paddlers. I believe they will comprise your
target market rather than the manufactures. Warm regards, Jim

[nighthawk]

LadyFisher,
Here is an outfitter located along the Susquehanna River that is very good: http://www.bluemountainoutfitters.net/

They specialize in canoe and kyak sales, service, parts and float trips.

[ohiotuber]

I will with-hold my endorsement until I receive & use my cart, although I feel good about it. Great features, it is a new item for a company that has long manufactured bike racks. If I were to judge the seller on their timely & honest responses to my questions, they would rate a 10 out of 10. More opinion to follow after 8/20/06.
Mike

[Jim Hatch]

Hey Mike,

There was a time, long long ago, where I would have strapped the gear
inside the canoe, reached down and grabbed the gunnels and lifted the
boat over my head and bring the center yoke down onto my shoulders
much as my forefathers did.*G* However, these days, a cart sounds
like a neat approach. I might personally lean towards a 4 wheeler with
a trailer.*G* Good luck. Warm regards, Jim

[Bluegill Budd]

Mike,
I am awaiting your review. I, like you have found a hidey-hole, and mine is 2/10 ths of mile down an overgrown path. No way I can carry / drag / push 47 lbs of kayak that far.

Clint

[MOturkE]

I plan to make my own Kayak cart, much the same way as I made my outriggers. I'll use 3/4 inch conduit and fashion a square with wheels at the bottom end of each side piece. It will slide onto the aft end of the kayak, the top bar will lay slightly forward against the hull and a bungee will hook to the opening. When it's removed it'll fold down somewhat flat and stow behind the seat.

I've seen them in a couple of kayak mags and am just copying someone elses design. I'll post a picture when I get it done.

.

[Bryan Trantham]

I welded up a cart for my canoe out of some scrap aluminum about 4 years ago, and shod it with 2 wheelbarrow tires from Lowes.
I balance the canoe on the cart and strap it down with my tie downs from my roof rack.
It is easy to roll, the tires giving good flotation over soft ground. i have rolled the 58 pound boat, fishing gear, cooler, and 5 year old son up to 1.5 miles to some out of the way small lakes in the area.
I have found that most people will only walk about a 1/4 mile with fishing gear, any farther than that and you generally have it all to yourself.

Bryan

[JME]

I reckon Johnson Outdoors would make a good sponsor for this section of the site. http://www.johnsonoutdoors.com/