Availability:
Estimated Arrival: Between Mar 18 and Mar 25. *ETA to the USA Only
The Backwater 15 is built for anglers, hunters, and outdoor paddlers who need maximum stability and cargo space. Its wide square-stern design provides a stable platform for fishing or gear-heavy outings and allows the canoe to be paired with a small motor or trolling motor for added versatility.
For Questions or a Quote, Contact Dave: 864.367.6161 dave@lightasairboats.com
All Wenonah Canoes are handcrafted in their manufacturing facility on the banks of the Mississippi River in Southeast Minnesota. Each of their craftsmen pour dozens of hours of labor and decades of experience into each boat they deliver to their customers across the globe.
The Backwater 15 square stern canoe is for sportsmen with motorized intentions. The rigid aluminum and wood mounting bracket makes for quick and easy addition of a small motor.
Sized for two people and a load of gear, it works great for duck hunting shallow backwater marshes or float fishing rocky rivers. Super stable, the Backwater 15 is a blast when coupled with the right sized motor. We recommend a small outboard in the 2-3hp range, or a trolling motor with at least 55lbs. of thrust to unlock this boats true potential. To off set the weight of the motor, place the battery or gas tank as far forward as possible.
Features
Ultra-light hulls are stiff and incredibly light. They are ideal for speed and distance paddling and for all people or conditions that demand the lightest gear. In our Ultra-light construction a structural-foam core and ribs are laminated into the hull and sides. We also add extra fabric layers to strengthen specific targeted areas.
Aluminum plates are strategically laminated into the hull. Seats, footbraces, and all hardware is then riveted into these plates. This gives a very secure connection and eliminates rivet heads on the exterior.
Aramid, the fiber used for aerospace, body armor and bulletproof vests, is amazingly light and strong. We've used it for more than 30 years to construct extremely light and tough canoes. Wenonah Canoe is the worlds largest maker of canoes using Aramid.
Wenonah Canoe Components

Specifications
Includes
☑ Natural (skin-coat) finish
☑ Silver Aluminum Trim
☑ Hung (Bucket seat not avail.)
☑ Ash Yoke Natural Satin
☑ VersiGunwale (Std)
☑ Web Seat
Dimensions
☑ Length 15' 0" - (457.2cm)
☑ Gunwale Width 41" - (104.14cm)
☑ Maximum Width 41" - (104.14cm)
☑ Waterline Width 37.5" - (95.25cm)
☑ Stern Depth 17.25" - (43.815cm)
☑ Center Depth 16" - (40.64cm)
☑ Bow Depth 19.5" - (49.53cm)
☑ Rocker 1.75" - (4.445cm)
Ratings
☑ Efficiency 5.00
☑ Maneuverability 10.00
☑ Capacity 8.00
☑ Stability 9.00
☑ Seaworthy 8.00
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultra-Light construction?
Ultra-Light construction uses aramid composite materials with a structural foam core to create a canoe that is strong, rigid, and extremely lightweight. This construction reduces weight while maintaining durability for recreational and sports use.
How much does the Backwater 15 Ultra-Light weigh?
The Ultra-Light version typically weighs about 52 pounds, making it significantly easier to transport and portage than heavier canoe constructions.
Can the Backwater 15 be used with a motor?
Yes. The canoe features a square stern with a reinforced mounting bracket designed for small outboard motors up to about 2–3 horsepower or a trolling motor with around 55 lb thrust.
Is the Backwater 15 stable for beginners?
Yes. With a maximum width of about 41 inches, the canoe is extremely stable and easy to paddle, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced anglers.
What activities is the Backwater 15 best suited for?
The canoe is ideal for fishing, duck hunting, wildlife photography, and recreational paddling, especially in shallow marshes, slow rivers, and backwater environments.
How maneuverable is the Backwater 15?
With about 1.75 inches of rocker, the canoe responds quickly to paddle strokes and turns easily, even when loaded with gear.
How much gear can it carry?
The Backwater 15 is designed to carry two paddlers plus a large amount of gear, making it a strong choice for fishing trips, hunting equipment, or camping supplies.
How durable is the Ultra-Light version?
Ultra-Light composite construction is strong and efficient for recreational paddling and sports use, though it should be handled carefully around rocks to protect the lightweight hull.
