just open carried my MG when we were in the Bush...Bill Hoyt another Scouter, used his 2" J 357 to drop a black bear that was standing on one of the scout tents...

--
Of the Troops & For the Troops

Fanny pack.

Freezer zip lock bag.

Going on the Buffalo or Harpeth

I would think carrying a canoe inside the waistband or in one's pocket would be uncomfortable for any period of time. You see, there's those pointy bits and...what? Ohhh.....ummm, never mind.

Tom, remember the M-14 ammo pouch I used to carry on a GI pistol belt when we were working in the field? I still have it. A 442 would likely fit right well in it, plastic baggie and all.

I don't believe anyone but you ever knew what was in that pouch. Scharber rode up in the elevator with me once upon a time when I was wearing it.

Been on many a canoe & kayak trip. A few hundred water miles worth.

I think that front pocket carry is going to be the best bet under your circumstances. Rear pocket carry would be next best. Most comfortable would be an across the chest carry under your PFD, but concealability throughout the trip would be hard to maintain. Small of the back carry would also be good, but again... You would be exposed at times.

The problem with front pocket carry would be drawing the handgun while seated in the canoe & it may get wet when you are launching the boat, or in a swimming incident. Rear pocket carry will be easier to draw from while seated, but will most likely be a very uncomfortable lump to sit on all day, plus the handgun may still get wet.

An auto-loader may be a better choice due to its flat profile.

Good luck & enjoy your canoe trip.
~JM~