Maine Guide License Practice Exam - Practice Test & Study Guide

The yoke is the correct accessory used to carry a canoe on the shoulders. It is a crossbar that is typically positioned across the canoe's center. When one or two people want to transport the canoe, they place the yoke on their shoulders, allowing them to balance the weight of the canoe and carry it more comfortably over long distances. This design is key for ease of transportation, making it easier to navigate through various types of terrain.

The thwart is a structural support within the canoe designed for stability and to provide seating, but it does not facilitate carrying the canoe. Gunwales refer to the upper edges of the canoe’s sides, which are important for structural integrity and securing gear, but they are not used for carrying. The bowline is a type of knot that is useful in various boating applications but does not pertain to the physical carrying of the canoe itself. Therefore, the yoke stands out as the designated accessory for this purpose.