[danb]

So, here's a question my canoeing crazy friend asked of me..I made myself a mahogany and basswood canoe paddle, and it's beautiful but I wish to make it watertight, and "you seem to be the most wise experts on wood often exposed to water" and so I wish to ask you what is the best varnish for making it watertight in perpetuity? I greatly appreciate any and all feedback to be had on this question. Dirty jokes notwithstanding.

[str8razor]

You can try this product it works pretty well as far as keeping wood waterproof.

Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane - Oil-Based Clear Protective Finishes - Minwax.com

[floppyshoes]

+1 on the helmsman poly. Use that or a 2 part epoxy based finish.

Unless it's submerged all the time, there are a number of other finishes that would be okay as well.

[danb]

thanks to all, I really appreciate the helpful responses.