As this is my first, I'm not sure. But I think I will remove the deck, and work on the hull alone. Nick, any suggestions?

I would rather work with that than have epoxy drips on the deck. Don't think having the deck on will do anything positive. How did your deck to hull joint meet? Mine is not good although once off the strongback it may look better. The more I think about it I will probably do a rub rail for several reasons.
1. Protection 2. water deflection 3. cover my sins on the deck/hull joint.

Would like to see pictures of your Night Herron so far.