When Chesapeake Light Craft started, they never glassed anything other than seam tape. Those boats are all still around.

There is a compromise. I glassed only the bottom on my original CLC 17 - not the sides. The glasssing will add a lot of abrasion resistance and protection that epoxy alone won't give.

Beginners are obsessed with weight. After a few mishaps you'll start lugging tons of safety junk in your boat.