: I have been viewing this board on a regular basis.(GREAT INFO).I know must
: come out of the shadows and ask a question,please forgive my ignorance
: ...when building a kayak (stitch & glue)does it need to be -v- shaped?
: what are the ramifacations if the bottom is flat with 2 or 3in chine?
: instead of a slight -v-shape. How would it perform, what makes the kayak
: bow stay above the waves vs.punching through them.the kayak i am going to
: build will be used for fishing in Fla.thanks in advance.

Hi -t-, does it need to be v shaped? No,but there's more to handling characteristics than the number of panels or chines. Instead of focusing on design elements why don't you solicit suggestions on boats that meet your intended use given your size and experience. From that make a boat. I find that choosing a design from specific elements of a design can get one all over the map but not necessarily closer to picking a boat.