Anyone familiar with the Sportspal models
 

As I'm trying to due my research I ran across the Sportspal line of
canoes. It seems to be a match of what I'm looking for; stability,
light, they claim it is virtual impossible to tip over, will not sink,
and can handle 2 adults easily. Here is the link
http://www.castlecraft.com/sportspal_double-end.htm
Does anyone own one of these? How do they handle? Are the claims
true? Are they built well? durable? Can you attach an electric motor
to them? Are they priced right? I'm looking for a canoe to fish from
(solo and with a partner), paddle around with my kids, on forest
preserve lakes and a few rivers. What are your opions pluses and
negatives. Thanks in advance.

Used one years ago, when we were young and foolish lads - they are indeed stable, very light and unsinkable; must be, 'cause we're all still alive. Two adults is just fine - lots of carrying capacity. Re handling - remember it as being slow - due to wide-ish beam. Both the SportsPals I've been around were light, riveted aluminium hulls; they both developed leaks, mostly from the rivets working over time. They dent easily. Repairs of torn AL, at least for folks like me who know fibreglass or stitch&glue construction, is difficult. I wouldn't say they are especially durable, given the lightness of the metal. I don't know about using motors, 'cause we 've never used one.
For the purposes you mention, a Sportspal should be OK - but I'd be leery of using it for river work if there are any rocks that could cause damage. I'd suggest treating it as you would a cedar canoe - don't beat it around any more than you absolutely have to, generally treat it gently -(we sure didn't :-)), and you should have a nice little boat that'll certainly let you and your family decide if paddling is the sport for you.
If you're looking at a new canoe, the price of a new Sportspal might be comparable to that of a decent used cruising FG or Royalex canoe that would have a lot more 'growing room' than the Sportspal. Expect to pay a weight penalty, tho, if you go the used FG/Royalex route.
Regards,
Rick

Know Your Boat, Know Your Waters, Know Your Weather and Your Limits