CHBasser

I used to be in your situation when I had my condo. I bought a Sea Eagle SE9 inflatable motor mount boat. I still use it, just had it out this weekend. It takes about 15-20 minutes for me to set it up with an electric pump, but the plus side is it stores in a large Rubbermaid tote when not in use. I also have the floorboard which makes standing easier. I can motor around for hours with a trolling motor, or paddle it. It also has a very shallow draft allowing me to take it anywhere I can take a canoe or kayak. As for durability, I've bumped mine off of rocks and trees without any issue. They are pretty tough boats. I'm actually on my second hull, the first one had an issue with the floor, and Sea Eagle sent me a new one. Their customer service has been top notch in my experience. The reason I mention that is the old hull still held air in the 3 main chambers, so it became an oversize pool toy. During a party 8 of us had it in the pool and tried to see how tough the boats really were. Between us filling it with water, overloading it with people, flipping it over, and other horsing around we still didn't hurt it. That hull lasted for a few years of pool duty basically being subjected to the same abuse. The only reason we got rid of it was because we were cleaning out the basement and didn't need the second hull anymore.

Have you considered an inflatable? I have a Sea Eagle and love it. Plenty of room, very stable, and it rolls up for transport. Not sure on your budget, but by the time you get the John boat and trailer you will probably spend more than the inflatable.

Actually check the type of PFD you are using, if you are using a type III PFD not all type III's will turn an unconscious person over. Although I don't agree with GrundleLove's view that they are completely useless. If I'm sitting still on a lake I may not have mine on, but if I'm moving, in my canoe, or on a river its always on. Also if the water is cold make sure you have one. I've swamped a canoe in river water that was only in the 50's and it's a shock to your system when you hit.

I've fished out of a canoe for years. If your going to fish solo throw some weight up front to help navigate in the wind. I'd recommend fiberglass or plastic over aluminum. I've found fiberglass to be a lot more durable than the plastic ones I have used. Once you get the hang of it canoes can be very stable. With practice standing up isn't a problem.