For many of us, canoeing is a means to an end: fishing or wildlife photography, for instance. Thing is, many canoes don't feel so stable, especially when you're lugging a few extra pounds. Casting becomes a balancing act worthy of the circus. And turning yourself around quickly to photograph, say, a bird in flight means you risk putting yourself (and your camera) in the drink. No fun! Evidently, you can leave such worries on shore when you step into a Kingfisher Canoe, a deserving "Best Of" pick. Its wide body offers unmatched stability for the sportsman or photographer, along with ample room for lots of gear. Thanks to an all-Kevlar skin, the Kingfisher weighs in at only 38 pounds, something your body will thank you for whenever it comes time to portage. Wenonnah founder Mike Chichanowski began canoeing as a Boy Scout and manufactured his first canoes while still in college. His passion will be evident the moment you slide a Kingfisher into the water.

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