: I'm considering building either the Chesapeake 17 or the 17LT. I know the LT
: is a lower volume version of the 17, but what performance differences
: should I expect? Is it less stable?
: Also, as a first time kayak builder, if I want to find out realistically how
: difficult building these models from the kits can be.
: I'm 5'10" 150lbs and want a boat that can take a good wave, have decent
: storage space, and something I can fish out of. If anyone has a better
: boat suggestion, please let me know.
: Thanks-
: Adam Darack

My first boat was a CH17 from a kit. Never having built one before I opted for the kit. Very nice kit. Easy to make. Problem was every time I used it my son would commandeer it. So I built him a CH16LT from plans. Not much harder than the kit. From what I have read the 17 and 17LT are the same hulls except for freeboard. They should perform the same. The CH17 may be a bit much boat for your size. I'm 6'1" and weigh 210. The CH17 is just right for me. Anyway, the 17LT may fit you better. Fishing, hmm, I don't know. That's your call. You might want to ask this question on the CLC forum. They are very helpful.

Good luck....