SOT Canoe?

[jem]

Been thinking. I got a lot of folks looking to build and SOT kayak but don't want to build a simpler boat first like I often recommend. So I've always wanted a really simple SOT kayak design.

But it runs into the same issue: It starts to get complicated regardless the design. So what's simpler than a kayak to build? A simple canoe.

So I came up with a really low profile pack-style canoe. A little lower than a pirogue. Then I added 2 panels to the hull so it's sits more stable in the water than a pirogue and would have more stability. The subfloor (to make it self-bailing) would sit right on top of one of the hull chines. Easy to install. Flat bottom so that's easy to build.

No panel twists, no full scale patterns to draw end curves, very easy to draw out and cut.



Shown is a rough draft of one: 13' x 30" and could hold 250 pounds before any water would start coming up the scuppers.

The open cockpit is wide open to customize. Could even be a small tandem for the kids.

Ends offer for a range of options. Rod holders, twist-out plastic hatch for storage.

I thought about showing a removable portage yolk but with the sides only being 10" and the hull having a subfloor, I don't think there would be enough head room.

I'm going to play with some shorter and wider versions and see how they look.

Comments encouraged.

[Kayak Jack]

Matt, for portage, consider a tumpline to help hold the boat higher.

[hairymick]

Matt, Definately a winner here!

This is exactly what our skinny water fishermen are looking for here. Room and versatility of a canoe with self draining ability of a SOT kayak. Bloody genius mate.

Draw this boat, list it and just watch it take off! 13 or 14 feet X 30" would work here.

[olsnappa]

Love this one too!!!
Matt, you just keep coming up with new and innovative not to mention versatile designs.
You da MAN!!
Trouble is I can't keep up !!!!

[craiggamesh]

If its nice and stable, lots of fly fisherman may be interested so they can stand.

[jem]

If its nice and stable, lots of fly fisherman may be interested so they can stand.

That's the key... it's gotta be stable. I have to play with the weight ranges and subfloor heights some more. SOTs are tricky.

[jbo_c]

I'd say the capacity is a little low. I'm only #200, but put water, lunch, (beer), and fishing supplies in and I'd be pretty close to limit. I'd say #275 would be a better capacity. Just my first thought. I won't be building one, though, so feel free to ignore me.

Jbo

[OnkaBob]

I was wondering some time ago why a lightweight SOT with single thickness sides could not be made - guess I should have asked!

I like this for the potential of light weight as I am in the small/medium range and weight is the main reason why SOTs were off my list early. Love the look and functionality of the Sabalo and the like but just couldn't carry or lift it so it would never be used.

This looks like a really good idea and will fill a need that I'm sure exists. The question of carrying capacity will be solved by having 2 sizes. The smaller ones will be lighter and carry less - suits people like me, and the larger will be for Jbo and Co

[jbo_c]

Good point about the weight. That's my #1 complaint about the SOT I have - and it's a light one.

Jbo

[jem]

I was wondering some time ago why a lightweight SOT with single thickness sides could not be made - guess I should have asked!

Yea Bob... you could have helped me out. you should have spoke up!

Actually, I had thought about it for a while. The draw back to a single side is if you take on a large amount of water, it'll take longer to drain then if you had a smaller cockpit volume.

I'll keep working on this one to try and get a shape I like. That could prove to be tough if we want to keep it ultra simple to build. We'll see!