: I am about to build a kayak and do not have any information resources to
: compare. What are the ups and downs of strip vs stitch

Strip=more beautiful, more time, more design flexibility

Stitch=quicker, more limited potential hull shapes, still great looking

: and Moores vs Schade?

I have both books. I think Nick's book is better if you were to only purchase one. He has great chapters on outfitting and hull design, where Moores is lacking. Moores' book, I think is better as a complement to Nick's book, and it has a few better finishing tips and techniques. Either will help you build a good kayak, and the combination of the two will really give you a complete picture.

: My intended use is a river tripping kayak similar to my Isere that
: I have paddled for about 20 yrs.

I'm not familiar with the Isere....what size/shape/configuration is it?

:I want a bigger cowling since I fish and
: photograph out of it.

Since you're building it, you can make a cockpit whatever size you'd like!

: I also use it to troll on the sea at times. I also
: camp out of my boat. My main use though is 5 miles down a winding class 1
: river.

Most boats will fit those traits admirably.

Shawn