: The more I look at what I'll be doing with this boat I think I want
: maneuverability above speed. I'll probably use it mostly for exploring
: shore lines in large inland lakes and taking it up small tributaries from
: our larger rivers that I live by. So I want it to turn fairly easily.

: The Shearwater 17 hybrid is one I am considering but at my weight (currently
: 225# but working to get it below 200#) I don't want to be squeezed too
: tight in the boat.

Jeff,

I would vote for the Spring Run or the King they are both great kayaks and the kits from Redfish are excellent. Joe Greenly pre-builds lots of parts like the coaming riser. The strips That come with the kit are first rate and full length. Both of these designs are good tracking and still manuverable with the King being a higher performance Kayak.

Right now however I am building Jay Babina's Outer-Island. Another great design The rounded V hull, low volume design and strong tracking are just the ticket for this build.

My first stripper was the Guillemot. Now that is a fun maneuverable stable kayak. Not at all hard to build. I have built several others between it and the Outer-Island.

I prefer to build from plans. That way I can make my own strips for beveling (no cove and bead) and it is easier to very the width of the strip. That helps in tight curves and detail deck design. The cost for me is better with plans than a kit.

I would bet confidently that what ever you build it will not be the only one. I would recommend that you find one of what you choose and paddle it for a while if possible also don't rule out a skin on frame for a first build.

What ever you choose get ready you are about to start something that is hard to stop. Boat building is highly addictive. Good luck and have fun.
Clayton Plunkett