: Native boat deck lines come through holes in the skin just below the sheer
: line on the hull.

Do you prefer rigid decklines like the native kayaks used? I'm starting to think that might be a pretty good solution to retrofit on my kayaks. Non-stretchy lines, maybe some bone or antler sliders....

: On my last couple kayaks I've set up my deck shock cord and paddle hold downs
: in a similar pattern. I've drilled holes the same diameter as my shock cord
: just below the sheer line and tied knots in the shock cord inside the hull.

: I like it! Very clean look. No hardware. Simple to do. I've had not water
: leakage
: through the holes. I'd planned to pull the shock cord ends in from the inside
: and
: put a dab of silicone sealant on the cord to keep water out but it's not been
: a problem.

Plus, if your shock cord is "stretched" slightly when you pull it through the hole, it "swells" when you release the tension and will almost perfectly seal the hole.

Besides, this is a wet sport, right?

Shawn