Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Seniors

erronis

(21,903 posts)

5. The male is usually heavier so gets the stern position - that's how canoes work.

Reply to rzemanfl (Reply #2)

Sun Nov 9, 2025, 04:12 PM

Sunday

The stern does most of the pushing and the bow does the fine trims and obstacle avoidance. Not to say that the bow position (and mid-canoe sometimes) don't contribute as much forward motion as they can.

I've canoed in lakes, fairly active rivers, etc. The balance is really important. My most miserable time was when the other gentleman I was paired with on the Shenandoah at low water was much larger than me. The stern kept dragging bottom and he had a heart condition so I ended up walking the canoe down the stream.

Besides, what man wouldn't want a lovely companion seated in front?

Edit history

Please sign in to view edit histories.

Recommendations

0 members have recommended this reply (displayed in chronological order):

6 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

My parents, in 1937!!!! [View all] elleng Sunday OP

Here are mine in (maybe) '47 Nittersing Sunday #1

Paddling was man's work then. rzemanfl Sunday #2

I also have pics of her doing some! elleng Sunday #3

The male is usually heavier so gets the stern position - that's how canoes work. erronis Sunday #5

Nice, I love old photos Walleye Sunday #4

Thanks. Wish this were more clear. elleng Sunday #6