Sincere thanks to rhysen, Brian C. and Nick: your comments have been most helpful. My Great Auk, when finished, will not see salt water, big rollers or following seas. I have other ways of coping with such phenomena. My kayak and I will be found in quiet waters, silent, stealthily waiting for the biggest Eastern Brookies that a No. 12 or 14 dry fly can bring to the basket. I have no intention of "rolling" (Top Hat or otherwise). I will have some fairly large lakes to cross - and southwest winds can be troublesome - to get to those "quiet waters". (The foregoing is in response to Brian's query).

It has been fun trading thoughts with you, but I am now out of the conversation Loop, to start running strips from my 18' western reds. Forms, strongback et al are set to go and I'll be fiberglassing in three weeks! If the skeg is to be installed it will be in place by then.

Best wishes for a Happy Christmas to you all.

Bruce Bowden.