WESTERN CANOER 2008 PDF - Clipper Canoes

Prospector Series
All three Prospector models share the
same characteristics of classic design,
grace on the water, and maneuverability.
The Prospector 14' is a serious allaround
solo canoe that is responsive
and seaworthy in grade II and III
whitewater. It’s also efficient enough to
paddle across large bodies of open
water. The classic Prospector design
is symmetrical with a shallow arch hull.
It has 1 ½" of rocker and the high chine
provides a smooth and dry ride through
rough water. A Duraflex layup is a must
for whitewater use. An expedition spray
skirt is available for this model.
The 16' Prospector is molded close to
the lines of the 16' wood canvas
Prospector formerly built by the
Chestnut Canoe Co. This model is
available in four different layups. It is
frequently ordered with a wood trim
finish, which is the crowning touch to
its traditional look. Webbed contoured
ash seats are standard, hung from the
gunnels on wood dowels. On our
aluminum trim models the seats are
hung on fiberglass hangers. It is easy
to paddle this canoe solo by using the
front seat while facing the stern. Seats
are high enough for kneeling or an
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I’ve been paddling the 17' Prospector
for the past few days. It is one of the
easiest paddling, most responsive
canoes I’ve been in. It’s a beautiful
craft.
Dick Person
Yukon
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"The Prospector 17' is a big
canoe that doesn't paddle like
one. It has a wonderful
aesthetic shape, workmanship
is all-around excellent, and
bucket seats and footbraces
provide a most comfortable
ride."
Canoe Magazine Water Test,
May 1999
www.clippercanoes.com
The Prospectors are in their element when on a wilderness trip - loaded to the gunnels and
beyond, and make an excellent down river canoe. 17 Prospector shown.
optional footbrace can be ordered.
The 17' Prospector has considerably
more volume than the 16' Prospector.
The 17' Prospector is in its element
when on a wilderness trip - loaded to
the gunnels and beyond. When loaded,
it maintains its speed and becomes
even more stable.
This canoe is available in four layups
and can be ordered with a spray
skirt, d-rings, sliding bow seat, and a
wilderness lash system. Add a
footbrace if you want the ultimate
river tripping canoe. Although this
canoe is praised as a tripping canoe,
it also makes a good family canoe
because of its large capacity.
Dear Western Canoeing:
I received a call last spring, asking if I was interested in buying a canoe.
I was overjoyed to hear that my prospective purchase was a Clipper, a red
16' Prospector in Kevlar/Duraflex. But there was a catch — the canoe had
been rolled over by a truck! I was now somewhat less excited. I have been
repairing canoes in my home town of Saskatoon for a number of years, and
have seen a lot of damaged boats.
Upon first sight, I was amazed that the canoe was in one piece, and that
it looked to be in fairly good condition considering its history. Overall the
damage consisted of some rather bent gunnels (to be expected), a broken
yoke and a few cracks in the hull. After a new set of gunnels, a new yoke
and a few Kevlar patches, the canoe is now as solid as any new Clipper I
have owned. The fact that my Prospector is able to provide many more
years of enjoyment, performing like it did when it was new, is truly
impressive.
One satisfied Clipper owner, Steve Hermanson
Page 18 www.clippercanoes.com Clipper Canoes.