Hi Tim, this is one of those personal preference things. If the bulkhead is just at the coaming then there is just enough room for a small drybag and misc. stuff. Having the bulkhead 3-5inches back gives enough room for a medium drybag or an electric water pump with room for more. Also with the bulkhead back a bit you'll get a little more back deck support for sitting right on the deck. I'd opt for 3 inches back. Even though you'll get a little more water in the cockpit the shape of the hull has more to do with how much water gets in, in other words a big boat will still have a lot of water, a skinny boat not as much. If you make a web of 3/16" bungie over the area behind the seat then stuff is less likely to float out. -lee