After investigating the shape of the bow and stern plates the answer always comes back "what looks right". What looks right is subjective. What works to produce a kayak that handles well whether it is tracking or turning is another story.

Hi Clark,
The angle of the bow and stern plates will have little effect on tracking or turning as such, most of the stems are above the waterline. For the most, the angle is a personal preference in our kayaks though conditions the kayak is used in may determine certain limits.

Mike Savage
South West Cork