One idea I would like to pass along ...

I didn't want to use wood for the actual skeg on one I built. I wanted to keep it thin yet strong and ding proof.
I used regular window acrylic plastic from the hardware store. I coated both sides with two layers of 4 oz. cloth. I also sandwiched the glass/plastic/glass under masonite with wax paper as a release. It came out beautifully smooth and very strong. I later cut it out with a jig saw and I tried to snap the remaining material and it was really tough and strong. Sand the plastic first.