: I think I'm one of them that you're talking about. I liked every aspect of my
: kayak when I first built it, except that it turned way too easily. I was
: always having to do correction strokes just to keep in a straight line.
: I've since added a fin to the back end and now I love the way it handles.
: I believe that the other kayak builder you're talking about did the same
: thing too.

: The problem is not the software, it's the fact that designing a kayak is a
: learning experience. I learned quite a bit about the design and I think I
: know how to modify my design to make it more like I want it to paddle
: without the addition of a fin.

: Remember that the Guillemot that you're paddling is a 7th generation kayak.
: Very few people will get the exact kayak they want on the first try.

: I agree that if you don't want to take the risk of building several kayaks or
: modifying the first one to suit your needs, then don't design one. Find a
: design that you like and build it.

: I've thought about modifying my kayak and making a generation 2, but I like
: the way the Redfish King paddles so much that I'm going to build it next.

I think I am the other one that used the BearBack design program. It produced a pretty boat but it didn't track strait. I am adding a retractable skeg in between building another kayak. I put on some foam tempory skegs and the boat tracked very well with them. In the picture is one. If I was to do it over again I would not put so much rocker in the stern area. But it was fun.

John