Leo 17

I recently got a treat from my friend Benjamin Skroch and he took me out on one of our beautiful Minnesota lakes in one of his canoes. I grew up in Montana canoeing the Missouri River in a fiberglass whitewater canoe which was pretty cool at that time. This boat, however, is far superior and a dream to paddle. Fully rigged out it was an easy 50 lbs. to lift and carry but the real test is in the water. Very stable and absolutely quiet you could easily fish as well as nap in the sun in this canoe. His craftsmanship is superb so this could be the only canoe you ever need. Buy one.

Last weekend I had the opportunity to paddle the Nighthawk Leo. I have not paddled the front of a canoe for a long time as my wife does not like to paddle the back. I generally find paddling more enjoyable and comfortable in the back. Having said that, paddling in the front of the Nighthawk was really easy and comfortable. We paddled into a headwind for an hour and were not really aware of how stiff the wind was until we turned around and sailed back. Cutting through the water was easy and felt very stable. I have done multiple trips in the Boundary Waters usually with aluminum rentals. This was an entirely different experience and I could begin to dream of moving deeper into the wilderness with equipment that makes the trip relatively effortless and more comfortable. The workmanship on the Leo was stellar. I recommend this canoe without reservation.

I love my brand new Nighthawk 17 foot Kevlar canoe. It handles great in the water, and at 43 pounds, is actually fun to carry. It also happens to be the best looking canoe I've ever ridden in. It was a pleasure to work with Benjamin, and see the care and craftsmanship that he puts into each canoe.

I purchased the Leo model 17 foot basic black canoe. (a beauty in and out of the water) After my last boundary waters trip, and a wrenched back, I decided never to carry a heavy canoe again. At the end of June I'll head back up with the Kevlar canoe and take some longer portages. (The first is a 380 rod portage) In early July I will let you know about my boundary waters experience, and how the canoe handled in different lakes, winds, and waves.