Hi everyone -

Well, Lake Erie has become my primary paddling destination since I live less than a city block from it. I'm launching/landing on gravel/sand beaches, and paddling along the shoreline almost always means I'm paddling into or with quartering or beam seas. Lot's of 3' boat wakes and 1'-2' chop kicking to 3'+ chop is typical. Lake Erie typically has 1-3' waves with barely 10-15' between wave crests. I'm just now starting to get out into the 2-3+' conditions, wanting to improve my skills and enjoyment, getting tired of waiting for calm conditions...they don't happen often

My Cape Ann Storm does great in those conditions. My Dragonfly (Caspian Sea) is very stable and easy to control but tends to rock 'n bob on the waves because of its relatively flat bottom, but it's shorter length is great. I'm still beginner-intermediate but getting increasingly comfortable in my QCC 700 XL which has a 21" beam, 20.5" waterline beam and 18' length.

I don't care for the feel of hard-chine boats.

So, anyone have some suggestions on a good kayak project for next winter? I'd like to build something that is closer to a 23" beam, less than 17' in length and stable in those conditions, with decent tracking and speed. I know a fair amount of hull flare is helpful for stability as conditions deteriorate. I'm looking for a forgiving day-paddler.

I wish the Broze brothers sold plans for their Mariners!

I'll probably build a modified Storm as an SOF this summer with those dimensions, but would like to do another stripper once the weather goes south.

Any of you ocean/surf paddlers have any suggestions? Spring Run?

Oh, yeah. I'm 6'1" and 210lbs. long-waisted.

Thanks for helping me pick my next boat.

Jim