As much as I like my North Star in open water, it's length becomes a problem for me in tighter situations. I'm not sure where you are in PA, but I am familiar with many of the smaller lakes and rivers of the Endless Mountains and NY's Finger Lakes region. It's a great boat, but there are many places that I would not feel comfortable taking the North Star.

As an all-purpose boat, I still prefer my Redfish Spring Run. I'll take that boat anywhere - including open water. I'm taller and heavier than most so I built the "L" version of Joe Greenley's design. I was also smart enough to follow Etienne's lead in fitting each of my boats with a retractable skeg.

Nick's Great Auk is also a very good all-purpose boat, but the Spring Run is more fun for me to paddle.

Good luck with whichever design you choose, and enjoy the process!