Last weekend I had the opportunity to take both the Blackfly Option and the Blackfly Ion prototype open canoes for a test paddle in New Hampshire. As many board posters know, both canoes are going into production for the first time this winter.
The Option
The first thing that was evident to me about this 8'8" boat was the primary stability; the Option feels rock-solid right away. As we got into the meat of the run and I had a chance to put it through its paces – boofing, surfing, and crossing eddylines -- I found that it also had excellent secondary stability. It boofed relatively well (something that will only improve with several scheduled bow modifications in store for the production boats). As for speed, I found the boat had no trouble darting in and out of eddies and slicing across eddylines; still, it wasn't the fastest boat I've paddled. Part of the problem was that the saddle was too far back, and part of the solution is that the production models will simply be lighter and faster. The boat stays dry well – no doubt aided by the splash deflector that was added during the design phase.
I began to visualize what the Option would feel like on my favorite creek, the Big Branch in Vermont; I think that even on such a steep, ultra-continuous rock field, the Option would be a lot of fun. Suffice to say that in my book any boat that gives you that kind of confidence right away is a good Option.
(I really apologize for that joke.
But really I think what I am saying here is that the last time I was this excited about the Option, Florida was playing in the Orange Bowl.) 
The Ion
The Ion is much shorter than the Option, and, with the “natural” white color of the prototype hull, and the fat, rounded bow, this 6'10" design is a dead-ringer for none other than your average bathtub. Frankly, I was not sure what to expect when I got in. To my surprise, I found it amazingly fun! My overall impression was: “loose.” It spins on a dime, and seems to slip across the water, paddling remarkably fast for its length. It’s also extremely dry. Definitely a fun boat, for sure!
The Kokotat Drysuit
This is not produced by Blackfly Canoes, but I have to recommend it if you are foolish enough to be paddling open canoes in the dead of winter in New England.
Otter Creek Copper Ale
I'd recommend this if you're unsure whether going paddling in an open canoe in the dead of winter in New England is a good idea or not -- best if consumed the night before such an outing when in deliberation.
In summary, these are two very cool canoes, and kudos to Jeremy for some great design work! I can't wait to paddle the production models!
Bring on the spring high water,
Alden
