I thought I should add that I've only been to Canoecopia once before, so it's all not as old for me. That said I wouldn't go every year, and it's as much fun seeing friends as anything, even if I get teased about my regressive paddling interests  ;D  8-)

My canoe kit's pretty complete. If it wasn't for the need to pick up cold water kayaking gear (wetter ride than canoeing) I probably wouldn't have bought much. It is a big plus to talk to the vendors directly and not just some trained sales staff that's trying to cover a lot of different areas. Being able to try on gear right then is worth a lot too. Friday is by far the best shopping day, forget Sat or Sun.