: I second the motion of using water for ballast. Wherever you paddle you will
: have plenty available. When you finish paddling you can empty your ballast
: and return it to its source.

: PGJ

I agree, some kind of water containers with good screw top lids (so they don't leak)
will allow you to pick up and get rid of water as a ballast material.

However, it is very important that you have a reliable method of securing these
containers in your boat so they don't roll and shift, which could be a very serious
HAZARD in rough conditions.

Keep any ballast as close to the center of the boat as possible. Ususally this
means next to the bulkheads in front of and behind the cockpit. This applies
for loading your kayak with camping gear too. Place the heaviest articles
next to the bulkheads.

Weight placed toward the stems will effect handling negatively.

All the best,

Rob Macks
Laughing Loon CC&K
www.LaughingLoon.com