> Anybody have a recommended configuration for foredeck rigging? My dad
> built me a kayak and left the rigging up to me. I plan to use shock cord,
> but I haven't used the boat much, so I don't know what items it should
> accommodate or how. For example, can it be arranged to maximize map
> readability? Can I put a camelbak under it and drink without removing it?

As Nick said, a simple square or x is handy. I like to make a box with an x through it, with the lines nearest to the cockpit doubled. Play with the bungee awhile, or use string, to figure out how to lay it out. I assume you've already got the padeyes down in a 2x2 pattern. If not, play with the layout on paper 'til you like something..think about map/drybag support,camelbak, etc. You can put all kinds of layouts. I have 7 on the front--3 per side, one centered, and 4 on the back. Think about where you'll put your compass in all this planning.

I'd suggest putting the camelbak in the cockpit (behind the hip brace, maybe). Run the line out your sprayskirt and let in dangle...clip it in the cockpit so it won't wash away if you wet exit. You could however, use it as your deckbag (see below). The hose might not be long enough, but you can improvise with "milk tubing" from Home Depot/Lowe's/etc. Some folks wear the camelbak under/over the PFD. The more I think about it, the better that idea sounds. "Bailout packs" with water and survival gear are probably a good idea.

I prefer to put as little on the deck as possible. You have less wind resistance, less to blow away, etc. There are some neat new deckbags out too, or you could make your own that clips to padeyes or bungee rigging. They are much less cluttered looking. I have a $4 "fanny" pack I got from K-mart or somewhere that clips on perfectly and holds most of the little stuff for summer wandering, though I'll use a bigger bag come winter. If salt water trashes the zipper on a $4 bag..big fat hairy deal. Nice thing about any deck bag is if you land and want to explore, you take the bag with you.

You should put bungee to hold a spare paddle, allow self-rescue with a paddle float, hold your harpoon and atlatl and to stash a seal under when your hunting is successful... :-)

Let us know what you come up with.

Wynne Americus, GA