Thanks for the comments, guys. Before I started this boat, I struggled for a couple of months deciding between a few different models. It came down to the foamie, a modified Kaholo (?) stand up paddle board (modified to have higher rails and a shallow cockpit), and a Huntington Harbor kayak. I chose the foamie because it would be more forgiving in the build with mistakes, likely lighter than the other two, and (as mentioned) I would have an easier time incorporating the features I wanted. I basically wanted to replicate one of the countless commercially available, over-priced monstrosities, but customized for me, at half the price. Plus, it sounded like fun...lol.

My first attempt at building a boat was a Flats Rat kayak, a variation of a mouse boat. It came out great and was fun, but left me wanting more. I can't tell you how many forums had someone say that boat building is addictive. As I'm sure you're all very aware, it's true. I knew that look in my wife's eyes when I said I wanted to build another meant that it'd be a while before a third would be built. So I figured I had to make this one count, and I need it to last a while.

I think the suggestion to coat it in epoxy makes the most sense. Although, I do like the idea of the sacrificial hardwood. What kind of filler would you recommend to thicken it? God knows I've got tons of man glitter (saw dust) laying around, but I'm sure there's something just as effective, but more aesthetically pleasing that I could use. Microballoons, maybe? I'll probably add some pigment to it to avoid having to paint it. I've never done any real epoxy/glass work, only read up on it a bit. Suggestions are much appreciated!

So you guys can get an idea of the process, here's an album with my build pics:

Http://s76.photobucket.com/user/AF_Caveman/library/The%20BattleYak

Thanks again for the contents and suggestions!