First Build -cedar strip

Submitted bybug_hunter onSun, 08/04/2019 - 17:04
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Kayak Building
Hey All, First post. Looking for some advice on a design selection for my first build. I am looking for a kayak on the order of 14-foot, easily transported on the roof, for inland lakes/streams, novice paddler, advanced wood worker, I’m about 225lb, dog passenger preferred, cedar strip. Any advice, direction, help would be appreciated. Thanks a bunch, Greg

John,

I have done very little paddling. My primary desire is to build a beautiful boat that I can fish out of and learn to paddle.  Looked at the Robbie and it seems a bit small. Considering the 14-foot Auk. Still trying to narrow down my options. Most of what I find are longer surf kayaks. Not much surf in Wisconsin.

Let me know if you have any more ideas.

Thanks,

Greg

 

 

 

JohnAbercrombie

Mon, 08/05/2019 - 22:29

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Greg-

It's tough to find 'one boat that will do it all'.

If you want a stable boat for you and the dog to go fishing, that won't be a good boat for developing your paddling (edging, turning, bracing, forward stroke) skills.

The Great Auk 14 is probably not a good bet for you and the dog (unless your dog is tiny); it's a shortened 'real sea kayak' and will probably feel fairly 'tippy' if you are a beginner and trying to fish. But it would be a good compact boat that you could use to  learn skills and just have fun paddling.

BTW, most competent instructors will demand basic safety features in any sea kayak you use in a class, so plan from the start of your build for perimeter deck lines and also flotation - either air bags filling the ends to the cockpit or bulkheads and waterproof hatches.

If it's possible (I don't know where you are in Wisconsin), you would get a lot of value out of some kayaking lessons.

You'd learn some skills (to keep you out of trouble solo) and also get a 'feel' for different boats.

BTW, I think some beach landings on the Great Lakes can be quite 'surf-y' if the wind is right!

:)

 

Yes, that's said instead of making one for yourself. Why don't you try some affordable fishing kayak which will easily serve your purpose? I have recently purchased one for myself. You can some below sources which actually help me make a better choice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wc2f7xglcEI (Video link)

https://ourpick.net/best-fishing-kayaks-under-1000/ (Buying guide link)

Hope this helps.