: For the deck lines it seems that they are best "positioned" ½" or ¾" above
: the deck and "flush" fittings do not do this. They leave the lines "down" at
: the deck.

Absolutely correct!

: Then there are the deck fittings for bungies
: to hold "things" that I "may" want to strap to my
: deck.

I find one or two bungees useful for holding small items. I prefer cord with sliding toggles for securing any important gear (spare paddle, etc).

: Anyway the "flush" fittings I have seen ALL
: don't drain, they will always be little "pockets" to hold a
: little water.

True, but I carry my boats inverted, so it's not an issue. I'm still not fond of recessed fittings, though.

: And if I put all the fittings that most recommend it seems
: like my deck will be like polka dotted with almost 20 holes all over. So I
: am thinking of not putting them in at all. I don't plan on strapping stuff
: to my deck. I think I can make hatches that will not need to have extra
: hold-downs. And I don't think I "need" deck lines (safety yes,
: but more than I need). So I would like to know if "skipping" the
: deck fittings all together is "wrong". I think the deck will
: look so much "cleaner" with out them.

There's an old saying "form follows function". Why would you want to compromise SAFETY for looks? Earlier, you were talking about how it's important to have deck lines that are elevated above the deck; now you want to leave them off entirely? I don't get it.

If you have any doubt about how important deck rigging is, take your bare boat out on the water (with an friend along) and do a wet exit, Try grabbing onto your boat at somplace other than the cockpit. Try a paddle float rescue. Have your friend try assited rescues with you. Try scenarios where he cannot hold onto the coaming to steady your boat. I'll bet that ten minutes of this will convince you once and for all that adequate deck rigging is ESSENTIAL to safey in a sea kayak.

: I'd appreciate hearing what I am really missing with out these deck fittings.

You certainly don't need to use flush fitting, but I strongly advise that you you install deck rigging, for safety's sake.