> I prefer the idea of a retractable skeg. It can be tuned to give
> you the degree of tracking you need. I does not effect the lines of
> the boat much especially when compared to a rudder. And unlike most
> rudder systems, if it breaks, it does not effect your bracing ability.
>

> Valley Canoe Products makes a decent system that can be retro-fitted.
> I recently put one in a boat. I haven't had a chance to try the boat.
>

I too installed a Valley Canoe retractable skeg on my Chesapeake 17. It's a good product and easy to install before you deck your boat, although it looks a lot trickier to install as an afterthought. So far I have never had to use it while paddleing in wind and current. If I knew my boat tracked as well as it did, I would not have installed it. It's good insurance though and retractable skegs won't effect the appearance the way a rudder will.