Champlain 16 by D. Scot Williams, Knoxville, TN, USA
Posted on March 22 2014
Having been a professional cabinetmaker for nearly 30 years, I felt it was high time I built not only something for myself, but something that had function.
The thought occurred to me when a fishing guide in northern Maine showed up in a 20' cedar strip he had built. All day I kept thinking "I love fishing and time on the water. I'm a cabinetmaker. I should build a canoe!"
I chose the Champlain 16 plan. I was attracted to the severe recurve in the bow and stern, and looked forward to the steam bending that would be required. I utilized African mahogany for much of the trim, which complimented the western red cedar nicely. The only real challenge was working with the fiberglass and resin, which I had never done.
The boat is fast but a bit more 'tippy' than expected. If you plan much solo paddling, I would suggest moving the location of the rear seat forward.
Over the years, there have been countless projects come out of my shop that I take great pride in. None, however, like this canoe. Thanks for a great set of plans.
