I'm on the verge of building a Matunuck surf kayak but haven't received the plans from CLC yet. I'm accumulating materials and am thinking about some minor customizations.

Does anyone have any thoughts on whether it's advisable to add a solid rear bulkhead and a small screw-on day hatch to the rear deck. I'm thinking about having the convenience of a watertight rear of the boat and a small place to put gloves and sunglasses and stuff (like in one of those hanging bags). I have a decent roll, but I have no doubt that I will swim on occasion.

If this would introduce structural issues, then I could put the inspection hatch in the rear bulkhead to remain open when its out of the water. Any problems with this idea?

Thanks for any input.

Frank