Typically, you'll want to balance the weight relatively equally between the back and front of your canoe, with a bit less weight at the front. Heavy items should be over the centerline of your canoe to prevent it from cracking or leaning to one side. Check how your canoe is positioned in the water before setting off. Adjustment may be required if there's too much weight at either end. Find out what works for you, as you might need more weight at the front if you're paddling into a headwind.