I was wondering if anyone here has added ballast for day trips. What I was thinking of was epoxy coated 1-1/4" rebar fastened securely into the fore and aft hatches (maybe 40# total, depending on the day paddle). The reason is that my boat is great for overnight trips or longer day trips with some gear, but on short trips she rides a little high. The addition of concentrated mass that close to the keel line will help with stability and rolls as well. My support strokes and such are fine, but in some conditions that little bit of righting force would help a lot.

Also, what are your thoughts on where the ballast should be placed? For example, if I placed them at the CG (i.e. in the cockpit) I would think that would allow the boat to go over chop a little better (sea saw for example) than having the weight in the fore and aft hatches.

The only reason I was thinking rebar is because I had some 1-1/2 foot lengths. Lead could work also (although it is hazardous of not coated and I don't have any on hand). I had thought water but steel/lead would bring the CG of the ballast nice and low.

Thanks for any insight.