Question Experience with Pirogues?

Does anyone here have any experience with a pirogue? I'd like to try and navigate the Leaf River down to the Gulf from Hattiesburg sometime soon. I'd originally wanted to use a John boat, but I've heard those aren't as stable as you'd think. My only concern is a kayak flipping over and all of my gear drowning. I think pirogues are pretty stable, but do any of y'all know? Or, is there a cheap, more stable alternative?
 
It's pronounced Pierogie


All seriousness tho, depends on your level of comfort. I kayaked across the puget sound in a 150 dollar walmart yak. In fact that's what I recommend if you want cheap and stable. Yes, not as fast, but that's probably a good thing. VERY stable. I can do handstands on mine like a paddleboard. Also fine on rapids and that sturdy plastic will be fine on rocks. Ive sent mine down cement drains and such into creeks, alllll good. Worried about gear? Get a dry bag, it's worth it, and you'll be at ease knowing your shits safe in there. Which means you can take in whatever water you need to in navigation, and then pull ashore lift the easily handled 30lb kayak on end pull plug and voila- good to go again. But i'm also a maniac. This is not a safety tip, but i'm trying to answer your question accordingly.