Thanks for your replies thus far. I plan on using the kayak mostly on local lakes, but would like to be able to take it out on the ocean for day trip or short multi-day tour. I live in central California (Fresno) and would like to someday kayak in the Monterey or SF bay area. I am 5'10" and currently about 190 lbs, but I will be down to 170 lbs by the time my first kayak is built. I have lost about 25 lbs so far in 2003 due to increased activity and eating less. Fitting into and appreciating the handling of a kayak is more motiviation to shed the pounds.

As for a hard chine or multi-chine hull, I guess since I'm new to this sport the more stability the better. I like the idea of a very straight tracking boat, because the plastic Perception Carolina kayak of a friend weathercocked all over the lake and required a lot of energy just to keep it in a straight line.

Thanks again for all the help. I'm sure I'll have many more questions before I order my kit.

Ken

The following link contains pictures of my first time in a kayak.