The Coppermine 17' Y-stern canoe was inspired by canoe builder and paddler Peter Feindel. Peter had been using a Nomad 17 which he really liked, and did not want to stop canoeing just because his aging body and flagging energy were getting in the way. The Coppermine shares many of the qualities of the Nomad while offering canoeists like Peter a backup to traditional paddling.

The Nomad is similar to its workhorse cousin the Prospector but without the huge displacement, allowing for a simpler and easier to paddle canoe. In developing the Coppermine, Steve Killing maintained the underwater shape of the Nomad to retain its good paddling characteristics. Above the waterline, the widening of the gunnel aft permits the stern seat to move back allowing for a 9"-wide transom which will accept a small electric or gas powered motor.

The result is a stately canoe which can be paddled or motored with equal ease, and is pleasing the eye. 

Although the plans should be sufficient for a confident builder, please be aware we don't supply Coppermine-specific instructional materials. If you need additional info, we recommend "Woodstrip Rowing Craft" by Susan Van Leuven for more on how to approach the transom.

© Designed by Steve Killing Yacht Design

For information of what is included in your cedar strip kit, click here.

For more information regarding our short cedar strips, click here.