> New to the board. Getting ready to build a couple of boats for my wife and
> I. Got it narrowed down to the Chesapeake and Chesapeake LT. We plan on
> doing mostly day trips and a couple of weekends here and there so I am
> aware that the LT is probably the better choice. In fact the LT 16 will be
> the boat for my wife. As for me, 6'3" 195 lbs.,I am concerned about
> proper knee bend in the LT 17. I had a chance to sit in one the other day
> that is not quite completed and in fact did not have the seat installed
> yet. I fit fine but felt that if the seat was in and with knee padding
> installed that my legs would be pretty straight. Any input from the
> crowds? Also, how much manueverability would I lose if I popped up to the
> LT 18, which I think is a little deeper? Thanks.

I have 15, 16, 17 1/2 foot commercial boats (am a guide, instructor, outfitter) and built myself an 18 foot Chesapeake. I love it, it paddles just as well or better than my other boats. I am 6'2", 200 pounds, size 11 feet.

It is great being able to carry ALL my gear for long trips under the deck, including sleeping pads.

Randy