: Jack
: Basswood isn't even close to rot resistant but used frequently in paddles. I
: recommend using a penitrating finish of some sort- varnish-oil ect. Reason
: is that when you scratch your paddle you want water protection trough out
: the wood- epoxy or poly-u don't penetrate as deep and you risk water
: damage with deeper scratches.

It's somewhat of a myth that oil finishes penetrate deeply into wood. If you cut a piece that's been oil finished, you'll find that it only penetrates a few thousandths of an inch - essentially to the bottom of the pores in the surface. Thinning it with turps or mineral spirits (paint thinner) will allow it to wick a little deeper, but not much. Once the pores are sealed by the first coat, subsequent coats cannot penetrate any deeper, but they will fill the pores on the surface.

Additionally, oil finishes are not waterproof, so an oil finished paddle will absorb some water, However, the finish breathes, so the water will evaporate and the paddle will dry.