New Okwata - really nice shape

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Merlin
Posts: 41
Joined: Wed Sep 03, 2008 2:09 pm
Type of boat I like: Kayaks have Okwata plans
Location: The Woodlands, Tx

Post by Merlin »

Mick, Matt,

What is your opinion of which cockpit size to build in the Okwata? The Lakers and Freedoms have the larger size. Would the smaller size have any advantage other than using a spray skirt, which I'll probably never use? I can see the larger one is easier to enter and exit. Anything else?

Thanks,
Billy
hairymick
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Post by hairymick »

G'ay Billy,

I like the biger, more open cockpits for a variety of reasons. ease of entry and exit are only a couple.

In our tropical heat, a spray deck is not really an option except in survival conditions, and I nolonger paddle in those conditions. the more open cockpit is also way cooler.

I fish from all my boats and the bigger cockpit is a big advantage here. I can sore my tackle drink bottle and other stuff handing and within easy reach while paddling.

It also makes it easier to drag solid fish into the boat.

For the guys paddling cold water, the smaller cockpit is probably a good idea but for me, here, it serves no purpose and is next to useless.

The standard cockpit in Laker is ideal for me here.
Regards,
Mick

JEMWATERCRAFT Swampgirl; Wadefish;Touring Pirogue;South Wind; P5 ;
Laker X 2, Sasquatch 16.5 T-V 15 Okwata 15:
Cobia 15 (under construction)
Merlin
Posts: 41
Joined: Wed Sep 03, 2008 2:09 pm
Type of boat I like: Kayaks have Okwata plans
Location: The Woodlands, Tx

Post by Merlin »

Thanks Mick,

Just the answers I was looking for.
Okay, I'm out of excuses, er ah questions for now.

Thanks,
Billy
jem
Site Admin
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Post by jem »

Okwata does come with a longer cockpit option. But not as wide as a Freedom or Laker.
-Matt. Designer.
Merlin
Posts: 41
Joined: Wed Sep 03, 2008 2:09 pm
Type of boat I like: Kayaks have Okwata plans
Location: The Woodlands, Tx

Post by Merlin »

Matt,

Ordered the Okwata with the longer cockpit today. Not sure when I'll get to start on it, hopes it's soon. Thanks to all for answering the questions and helping me out.

Billy
jem
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Post by jem »

Thank you! :D
-Matt. Designer.
hairymick
Design Reviewer
Posts: 1965
Joined: Wed Jan 04, 2006 8:54 am
Type of boat I like: <-- Please read instructions to the left and delete this text. Then, tell us what type boat you like! :-)
Location: Queensland, Australia
Contact:

Post by hairymick »

Cangratulations Billy!,

Good Choice mate,

Okwata Mark 2 Nos 001 & 002 comin up! :D
Regards,
Mick

JEMWATERCRAFT Swampgirl; Wadefish;Touring Pirogue;South Wind; P5 ;
Laker X 2, Sasquatch 16.5 T-V 15 Okwata 15:
Cobia 15 (under construction)
Merlin
Posts: 41
Joined: Wed Sep 03, 2008 2:09 pm
Type of boat I like: Kayaks have Okwata plans
Location: The Woodlands, Tx

Post by Merlin »

Matt,

My pleasure, really, you've got a great site here. thanks.

Mick,

Okwata MkII, reminds me of the naming of military stuff from way back.
I can only hope to get it finished quickly, but it may be awhile. Good building to you. I'm sure everyone will see pix of yours before I make the first cut.

Later,
Billy
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