Now you’re starting to…
figure it out for yourself based on experience, which is the best teacher.
I’ve paddled for 50 years on Ozark streams that are very similar to the Harpeth. I’ve used aluminum, fiberglass, Royalex, Polylink…all have their advantages and drawbacks. But if your budget can stand it, Royalex IS probably the best choice of canoe material for your rivers.
Don’t worry too much about the scratches. On fiberglass boats scratches are mostly cosmetic. I’ve got fiberglass canoes that have the gel coat worn completely away and down to the fiberglass weave on the ends, and they still float and still paddle.
And do consider getting another canoe for the kids…they will soon outgrow being in the same canoe with you and your wife, both in size and temperament.