Description
The Chestnut Bob Special is a lightweight, stable recreational canoe designed by the Chestnut Canoe Company, originally launched in 1905 as the 15' 50-Lb. Special for solo tripping and casual paddling, and renamed "Bob Special" (or Bobs Special) in the 1950s to reflect its evolution and the telegraph code "BOBS" honoring Lord Frederick Roberts (Boer War figure). Built in wood-canvas until Chestnut's 1979 closure, it features a wide beam, shallow-arch bottom, moderate rocker, and fine entry lines for exceptional stability and maneuverability, making it ideal for beginners, fishermen, and cottage use. Modern replicas by Nova Craft (since 1988) and others use strip-plank epoxy for enhanced durability and speed, with subtle improvements like fuller bows for drier rides. Known as a "timeless classic" and "dream paddler," it's praised for skimming across water, tracking well, and turning easily, suitable for flatwater, light tripping, or coastal exploration. Comparable to the Prospector series for versatility but with a focus on stability over whitewater agility.
