I suppose what I should be doing is reading less and paddling more.  I am making several assumptions. Many solo travelers I have taken note of, have one large pack carried alone and another smaller pack carried with the canoe.  I assume most solo seats are near the center balance point, so the larger pack being close to that center would have a smaller effect, and a lighter pack to trim with as far forward as needed.
Some of what I have read suggests having minimal weight in the bow so it will rise over the waves in a headwind, taking on less water?    

With the solo canoe I have, the best spot for a large pack is just aft of the seat, because it is the widest spot available.  Everything forward of the foot brace is considerable narrower, making it more difficult to trim on the water.  Pushing with a paddle and pulling with a rope has been suggested and does seem to work.  All somewhat puzzling.

MB