Hello,

I am new to the forum and am mostly new to canoeing but I have some experience with small rowboats, rafts, kayaks, etc. I am looking into getting a used canoe which I want to use solo for fishing, possibly some small-scale waterfowl hunting, and back country paddling and camping. I plan on sticking to lakes and ponds as well as small, sluggish rivers. I currently have my eyes on a 1974 Old Town Carleton Voyageur which appears to be in excellent condition for $200. The boat is fiberglass, 17ft. long and weighs 85 lbs. I think it’s a great looking canoe, not that that matters. Would this be a good fit for what I need it for? Is this canoe too large for solo paddling? I’m pretty light, about 5’11" and 145 lbs. ; how far would I realistically be able to portage it? Is this known to be a decent model (stable, durable)? Overall, would this be a fine first canoe for me, or should I keep looking? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!