[Mr Ramsbotham]

That’s not a canoe like the writer claims; it’s a John boat.

Does a bloke need oars to use it?

[bcsco]

Oars or a boat motor. It doesn't paddle well due to it's boxy design. It's flat bottomed, and doesn't ride as well as a 'V' shaped boat, so it's best for shallow water. Used mainly by hunters and fisherman since it's more stable than a 'V' shaped boat.