I've really enjoyed having a skeg in my Night Heron when the winds kick up here on long paddles such as Yellowstone and Jackson lakes. I went with an unconventional position and having used it now for two years I'd do it the same way again.

I used the Superior Kayak CF kit when it was first released. The recessed slider control was designed for a flat panel application but I was able to shape it into the contour of the NH deck without major issue. I would think one could fashion a similar device from CF tubing or lay up your own box using a large wooden dowel for a plug.