: Thinking of building a CLC Mill Creek 13 or 15 with outriggers. But would
: like to (I think) mount them behind the cockpit and a lot smaller then the
: standard outriggers. Not to be used for sailing, but in order to sit on
: top of the deck, stretch the back, and do some fishing with out going
: over.Also, to give my wife peace of mind. This might be along the lines of
: the Tribal, Tribalance model kayak. (www.tribalance,com)
: Anyone have any suggestions? Bob in Kansas.

Also take a look at http://www.teamtriak.com for another sim layout.

I think your idea is good. Don't break the beam as in the tribalance, and maybe no so far back - say right behind the hatch instead of farther. Use a system more like the clc but w/ maybe one beam instead of 2. The clc xbeams wrap in front and back of the cockpit so interferes big time w/ paddling,bracing(is it req'd?) or esp fishing so you want the water arount the 'pit accessible by paddle or rod. The advantage of the front mount(and large size) is for resisting the large sailing forces.

Using a real yak as a base means that you have a flexible system - a yak that works either way. That probably means keeping the hatch about 12in away from the cockpit (for paddle float bracing and packing for the single yak), then the hatch, then the beam location. Therefore maximum use. And maybe as you play w/ the brace you'll figure out a way to mount it forward as well so it could also be used for sailing. Another advantage of the rear mount is you don't have something to trip over as you get in.

And maybe play w/ the rear cockpit ht a bit so you maximize the ability to lean back for your back or slip out to stretch the legs. Check the cockpit length before you build - might want to increase the length for raising knees and slipping in. ( I don't know how bad your back is or how long the clc cockpits really are.)

anyway - good luck

Read some of the back posts about the importance of seat outfitting to radically increase comfort. Maybe b/c of the outriggers you can temporarily raise the seat for when you use it - might be a bit less strain.

-mick