: I think of a kayak as pivoting from its lowest point. Your thinking
: is absolutely correct about the central location and more
: control. I have been using the central skeg for 10 months now on
: two different kayaks. All your doing is shifting the pivot point
: from slightly forward to slightly back. I now think of a stern
: skeg as locking up the rear and limiting my control. Your
: thinking of a central skeg and a strong rear keel line has two
: different things competing with each other and the answer can
: vary.

: I just uploaded a short video showing edge control with the skeg
: deployed in the first part and then retracted in the second
: part. You will notice that with the skeg up it turns only when
: initiated and with it down I can stop a turn and reverse it.

: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MCHHwr6MYU

: Sea Kayaker recently tested a kayak with the Skeel or central skeg
: for an upcoming issue. I am very curious about their response to
: it.

: And in the interest of full disclosure, I have worked closely with
: Sterling Donalson on this system and yes I am very partial and
: biased to it.
: http://www.sterlingskayak.com/

: If you happen to be in the PNW and would like to try it, please let
: me know.

: Best,

: Reg

: PS.
: It has also received a smile of approval from Matt Broze.

Hey Reg,

That was great! The video confirms what I've suspected. Of course, things will be different on the face of a wave; sometimes the ends just get stuck, but I think we're on the right path. How far forward was the skeg mounted? I've been thinking that somewhere under the rear hatch would probably be about right as well as offering the best access. Thanks for the help. No plans to travel west in near future, but if you're in the Lake Champlaine area, give me a shout. Got lotsa toys and room.

Phelps Holloway