Buying a used canoe is a good way to get some experience on the water and learn what features you like when the time comes to "buy up". It is also easier on the environment. To avoid buying a lemon, here are a few things to look out for:

Hogged Keel: Set the canoe on a flat surface, keel down. Look under and see if the center area of the keel is touching the ground. If it bows upward, if you can slip your fingers under the keel at the middle, the boat is "hogged". Don't buy it.

Twist: Improper storage can cause canoes to twist. Stand back and sight along the centerline of the boat, then look to each side for symmetry. If it looks twisted it won't perform well for you.

UV Damage: Look for fading or bleaching of color and dullness of finish. Ask where canoe was stored - if outdoors, suspect UV damage. Avoid boats with extensive UV damage.

Seat to Hull Attachment: Seats are structural members which help keep the canoe's shape. Look where they join the hull and inspect for cracks, loose fittings or old repairs.

Delamination: Fiberglass canoes are made of layers of fiberglass. If the layers start to separate, water gets in and the problem increases. Look for cloudy areas as signs of delaminating. Difficult to repair.

Patches: Good patch jobs, especially in fiberglass canoes, are just fine. Even large patches are not a problem if done well. Look at the edges of the patch for hairline cracks or slight lifting. Feel with your hand along the edge of patch - it should be smooth.