: Hello everyone. I've been lurking around these boards for a little while now,
: and have decided to build my first boat. I wanted something short that I
: can take on the rivers and lakes here in Montana. And the small size is
: essential seeing as I am a college student living in a tiny apartment with
: little storage space!

: So, after much searching I discovered the North Alaska Recovery Kayak...and
: it looks like it might suit my needs. I am on a tight budget and am going
: to try to use mostly found/used materials. I'd like to try and cut my own
: willow ribs. Also, I will be using mostly hand tools.

: So, I'd like to hear from anyone who has built one of these kayaks...or
: anyone with tips on finding adequate materials and using more 'primitive'
: tools. Thanks!

Since you've done a lot of research you've probably seen the various kayaks people call "retrievals." I just built one and it was my first build. I just took it out for the first time on a 5.5 hour river trip. You can see the kayak and read some of the comments I have about how the kayak performed during the trip at http://nekayaker.blogspot.com/

In general I'd say this type of craft is good for short (two to three hour) river trips and paddling along the shore on lakes. If I built another one it would have more volume fore and aft. Kind of a cross between mine and how Rick makes his http://www.landlockedboatshop.com/boats.htm

I'm going to add a skeg to mine and add a thinner masik. I think those two changes will make the kayak more enjoyable to use. Building this kayak has been a great learning experience for me.

Good luck with your choice and build.
Kent