Has anyone here built their own Kayak? Either stitch and glue or planked? I’m considering this in the coming years and would like to hear some stories of Horror, Disaster, unrelenting mayhem and triumph. possibly info on kits and recommendations. I’m looking into pygmy and Chesapeake light craft kits at this point as they seem to have the biggest following, background, and support as far as kits go. I know this is not a fishing topic but it is a kayaking topic and I KNOW that not all of you were fishermen/women before you were kayakers.
YEP!!!
I built a CLC Mill Creek 13 from drawings they published in WoodenBoat magazine. It wasn’t hard, but a kit would be WAAAAY easier. Both Pygmy and CLC offer really good kits at reasonable prices.
Things to know before you begin
It takes longer than you think it should
When you have a glued together hull you’re about 1/3 done
Cured epoxy take 3 weeks to slough off your skin
Uncured epoxy comes off with vinegar
you need a whole lotta clamps. C Clamps or spring clamps is up to you; but you’ll probably need 30 of them
getting a glass smooth finish eats up a bunch of hours unless you’re an experienced body man
I saved the best for last
Paddling something you built yourself puts a HUGE smile on your face.
Who’s Ready for a Sleigh Ride? www.KayakFishSC.com
