> I am interested in building an Aleutian or bering sea style kayak. I have
> read Wolfgang Brinck's book. The information on construction is excellant.
> However I am from SW Missouri and will be using the kayak in rivers and
> small inland lakes. I want to build a shorter boat. Does anyone have
> information on a short kayak design that still has the "old"
> traditional look? I have seen pictures of a kayak called FEATHER
> (15'8"). The same site has a boat called the Harbor Seal that is 10'
> long. Any information would be appreciated.

Kurt,

I am building a short skin-on-frame kayak from an article in Sea Kayaker magazine (October 1998, VOL.15 NO.4) Back issues are available for about US$ 6.

The boat is called an Alaska Recovery Kayak. As described in the article, it is just under 10 feet in length, and is 25 inches wide.It is described as being "similar to today's recreational whitewater and surf boats". There are no 'plans' per se - instead, the author lists all the materials needed and takes you through the building process in steps.Built to fit you, it is, therefore, easily modified as to final dimensions. The article has many photos, as well. The author claims weights as low as 13 1/2 pounds for finished boats with synthetic skins.

I am a complete newcomer to both kayaking and building, so I will not comment on the boat itself (design,handling ...) but, so far, nothing in the building process itself has been beyond my abilities (VERY little woodworking experience). People on this BBS have been most helpful with my qestions.

Kelly