Not to put you off too much, but I would recommend reading Nick's book before looking for designs or opinions. He has a good section on choosing a kayak design. He breaks down kayak desings into a shopping list of traits, such as stability, tracking, maneuverability, gear-carrying capacity, and the type of waters you intend to paddle. With more knowledge of hull design, you (and we) will be better able to narrow down your choices -- and there are many.

Dean

: I am planning on building my first Kayak this winter. I am an experienced
: woodworker and an inexperienced kayaker and am having a hard time deciding
: on a kayak design. I have looked at the Great Auk design and the Cape Ann
: from Oneocean kayak. Does anyone have any suggestions? I am 6'1", 220
: with big feet and am looking to paddle on the bays and in the Pacific
: Ocean in Southern California. Thanks in advance for your suggestions and
: advice. ps. I have already ordered Nick's book to read on my vacation.