: Another question: what is the difference between a plastic/fiberglass and a
: wood Kayak?....Should I buy a plastic one first?

Anyone you ask here will be biased toward wood but you can get an excellent boat either way. Depending on how well it's made, a wooden boat can have a better strength/weight ratio than typical store-bought boats. A wooden boat can look better than a store-bought boat. There is a greater variety of shapes, sizes and styles in wood and probably a greater opportunity for customization. You also get a lot of pride/satisfaction from making your own. A plastic boat may tolerate abuse better depending on how it's made. So I guess it comes down to what you're interested in. If you want to get on the water ASAP then buy a boat. If you want to make your own then... make your own You can end up with a fine boat either way.