I have, from time to time, found "almost" clear WRC 2x4s at the local Home Depot ... my first GP was carved from an 8' 2x4 that had only a single knot, about 6" from one end ... lopped off the knot, and carved the paddle from what was left ... total cost $8, but the grain orientation isn't perfect ... still, it was a low-cost board for a less-than-perfect first effort.

I have also found several "almost" clear 4x4s, with knots positioned such that you can easily get a full 8' clear 2x4 out of them ... very dark colour, with tight, straight grain, as well ... the offcuts have enough clear, straight-grained sections in them to make a laminated paddle blank.

At HD, I always walk past the cedar section to see what's lying around ... a couple of weeks ago, I found a totally clear 8' WRC 2x6. I have no immediate use for it, but its sitting in my garage now, awaiting a decision.

Most of the time there's nothing worthwhile, but every once in a while, there's a board that seems to have been mistakenly placed on the wrong pallet. Grab 'em when you find 'em.