: Thanks everyone! All this input is great. I am pretty much set on building a
: short boat, despite it's inadequacies...due to the fact I have no where to
: keep a long boat. Plus, I think I will be doing a lot of paddling in the
: rivers here in MT and would like the ability to surf some little waves and
: negociate small rapids. I also will take it to some lakes....but more just
: to putt around with a friend who owns a small rec. kayak. I guess either
: way I won't have to 'ideal' design for any one use, but I'd like to have a
: good all around design.

: Kent, thanks for the links. I think I had actually been to your blog
: before...somehow must have run across a link on here or in a search. I
: think that's where I first got the idea for a retrieval. Thanks for
: sharing. Is yours your own design?

Erin,
I tried to use the Morris book as much as I could for the build but compared to the information out there for a Greenland kayak, there wasn't much to go on. My kayak isn't so much a design as "what came out" during the process.

: I am thinking that maybe I could build
: one with a little less rocker. Why would you add more volume?

Just so were clear on what I mean by "volume" take a look at the retrieval this gentleman built. http://www.gogaspe.com/douglastown/kayakalbum/patsretrieval.html Choose the "side" view from the drop down under the picture. He has stems (I think that is the correct term?) built into the bow and stern which adds volume fore and aft. The reason I would want to do something similar is to create less rocker, more buoyancy, more foot room and a little more "cargo" space.

: Also, I am
: fairly light (130lbs)...is that something to take into account?

Do you have Morris' book? I don't have it with me ATM but I believe he gives some dimensions to build the retrieval based on weight. I may be wrong but I think any retrieval you built 9' or longer would carry your weight fine. In terms of length I know you said you had some length restrictions in terms of storage. I'd recommend making this kayak as long as you can. My first attempt at building I used 9.5' gunwales. I found them very difficult to work with in terms of bending them around the forms. It took more tourque and I never did get them to bend evenly. One finally partially gave way. I extended the gunwales out to 11' and they were much easier to work with. If I build another I would even consider 12'.

Again, good luck and if you have any other questions don't hesitate to holler
Kent