: I want to build a wood kayak within the following parameters and am looking
: for advice from those who have gone before me.

: I'm 5'5" and weigh around 130 pounds. I'm looking for a boat that will
: fit me relatively snugly, be 15 to 17 feet long, 23 inches wide or less,
: probably 12" or less deep, and weigh 40 pounds or less. My primary
: use will be in local lakes for day trips but sound and ocean use are
: possibilities. I'd like it to track well but be maneuverable and some
: playfulness would be nice. It only needs to have a moderate level of
: primary stability, although I do birdwatch and fish on occasion. Good
: secondary stability is a must as it can get pretty choppy on the local
: lakes between the wind and the power boats. I'd like it to be fairly fast
: and good for touring. Storage capacity doesn't need to be large as I won't
: be taking long term expeditions - an overnight or two at most. I'd like it
: be fairly low in the water and NOT weathercock.

: I've been paddling a Walden Vista for a little over a year and my paddling
: skills have come a long way. I want a boat that challenges me a bit more
: and leaves me room to grow my skills.

: I have no preference between stitch and glue or strip built. I don't have any
: significant woodworking experience so as much as I'd like to build from
: plans, I think I need to stick with a kit.

: I also don't have a preference (yet) on hard vs multi-chine vs a more rounded
: edge. Haven't test paddled enough boats yet to know which I prefer.

: Cost-wise, I'd prefer to stay under $1,000 but if the best boat for me is a
: little more, I'd find a way to get it.

: So, anyone have any recommendations? I really appreciate any input anyone can
: give me.

: Patsy

Hi Patsy,
I just finshed a CLC LT17 which is about 17 feet long and 23.5 inches wide. I am in no way affiliated with CLC. Here are my two cents now that I'm "a one-boat wonder":

Overall Size: Take the advice to go small. I'm 5' 7" and 165 lbs. The only reason I went for the LT17 and not the LT16 is my seven year old rides in the extra-big aft hatch "jump seat" I custtom-built. Way too many people "over-boat" themselves and regret it when the wind and waves kick up. In fact, I paddled CLC's Chesapeake 14 in some pretty steep chop early this year and had a blast! I'm supposed to be too heavy for the Ch 14 but it felt perfect to me. I felt completely in control the whole time. Go small.

Cockpit depth: I gambled and modified the stock kit to fit my relatively short frame. (First-timers are NOT recommended to modify their first boat in general). Anyway, I laminted my own deck beam (much easier than it sounds) which changed the cockpit depth from about 12 inched to 10 inches. I added some foam thigh and hip braces also. The results are amazing - it feels like I'm part of the boat - complete control.

How many chines? Again, I'll share my experience and opinions for what they're worth: Last fall I demo paddled CLC's West River 180 and 162 as well as their LT17. I was SURE I'd go away buying the 162 and only tried the LT17 "for the heck of it". Glad I test paddled. The WR162 is a great boat but would not do a leaned turn for me. The LT 17 on the hand was amazing - a hip flick and sweep stroke and the turn just happened. Live and learn.

Hope some of that long-winded sea story helps.

Good Luck,

Greg J.
Columbia, MD