Marty -- I built my first kayak this past winter, A Merganser by Shearwater boats. I haven't used it on a stream or river, but on some of the lakes here in Indiana. It tracks well, so don't know how it will do in a smaller/narrow stream. I live in New Palestine and work in Indianapolis. If you are in the area, give me a call (317-306-4703 @ work) and let's talk kayaking building. -- Greg

: Hello All,

: I've been considering building a kayak as oppossed to purchasing. This will
: be my first kayak (I own a canoe). My primary use will be day tripping
: streams and rivers in Indiana. I would like to eventually go out on the
: Great Lakes. I am 5'11" and 195 lbs, size 11 shoes, 30" inseem.

: I am considereing CLC's Ches 17 LT. Is this kayak manuverable enough for my
: primary use. Any and all comments appreciated.