: I am installing recessed fittings on my Great Auk. I know I am supposed to
: have something behind the seat to stick the paddle blade under for
: self-rescue. Does anyone have suggestions on configuration, spacing or
: materials so I can use the paddle float? Should they be loose or tight;
: stretchy or firm?
: I have bungee Xs over the hatches for hold-downs, and in front of the cockpit
: for miscellaneous gear, but could use straps, or anything else in back.

Most boats I see have an X in a rectangle, rough shape below.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

X x x X

X x x X

X x X side of kayak

X x x X

X x x X

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Make sure it is wide enough fo your widest paddle blade. Up here in the cold water, we want the minimum time immersed so we climb onto the overturned kayak immediately and put the paddle float on the blade while on the kayak and head and torso are out of the water. You can even put the bare blade thru the bungees while on the boat. Then when you flip it, as soon as the float hits the water you are back up on the kayak. Usually immersion time for the whole operation is less than 60 seconds.

If you are putting the blade thru the bungees while in the water, the lifting of the float may make it hard to get the bare blade thru the far bungees. A flat nylon or mesh bag kept under the bungees works well. As soon as you get the blade in the bag opening, a push takes it to the other side and automatically under the far bungee.

A pull up on someone else's kayak or a braced reentry always beats a paddle float reentry tho.
Have fun paddling. Randy