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

If all you want is a boat, buy plastic or fiberglass. If you want to build your own, go with wood. Don't build a boat just because you want to save money, you will be disappointed. If you value your time out of the basement more than your time in the basement a rotomolded plastic boat will do the job. If you value the experience of making something with your own hands, building a kayak is a very satisfying project.

If you are in a rush to get on the water, buy a boat. It will take time to build a kayak, but if you start now you should be able to get on the water this summer.