Somebody wrote:

"prime" the repair spots with solvent thinned epoxy.

Why solvent?

Why thin the epoxy?

If you must thin epoxy, why not denatured alcohol (5% max)

"patch/fair" those spots with either an exterior putty or
thickened epoxy.

Laminating epoxy and micrro-balloons?

It makes great fairing putty.

Now prime the entire hull with more solvent
thinned epoxy.

Why?

That's why "high build primer" exists.

A gallon kit should cover the entire canoe at least two (2) coats..

Then paint with a quart of enamel from the hardware store.

A one part marine enamel compatible with the high build primer isn't
going to break the bank.

After investing all your time, what is the incentive to cut corners
and maybe save $10-$20?.

Lew