It has been a while since visiting the canoetripping.net site and it is good to see all is well. Unfortunately (or fortunately) I have a bit of catching up to do on several great threads...isn't that what winter is for? Between building, family and work of course.
In the last four months I have had many opportunities to enjoy my project. With conservatively 400 miles on the water plying the St. Croix River, two BWCA trips, one Quetico adventure and many, many exercise missions on the lakes near my home through rain and sun, wind and calm, I can say that this Merlin design has been a incredible companion and friendly watercraft. With the exception of an incident where a powerboat intentionally accelerated about fifteen feet in front on me, creating a three to four foot (so it seemed) bow burying trough through which I did take on water, the canoe has been exceptionally stable compared to any boat I have paddled. During no time of my trekking this season have I felt ill at ease about getting onto the water, even during some pretty windy and white capped events.
As I travel lakes more frequently than rivers, the zero rocker design tracks very nicely but does cause added paddle work in tight areas.
The finish has held up well, and although my older brother pointed out numerous flaws, the project has turned heads and that is fun. Of course I play the "shoulda, coulda" game and will employ a few different techniques on future building projects. The over sized seat, thanks Jim, has allowed me to shift my weight and maintain nice trim in most conditions and with a variety of gear. One surprise that I have encountered was the quick wear of the bow stem section although I am extremely careful about running aground. Even with three layers of 6 oz glass I have worn through to the cedar strips. I am considering a stem band to limit this wear and tear.
Suggestions on a subtle "fix" would be greatly appreciated. The thought of a giant "felt" pad/guard is NOT appealing.
Looking at my boat stable, and fully appreciating my wife doesn't need another canoe(!), I am leaning toward a different project this winter. Over the Fourth of July weekend I had the opportunity to do the stand up paddle board thing. Historically I had considered this means of water transportation to be rather unappealing and how shall I say it, wimpy. This new form of exercise is the real deal for me and I worked muscles never used while sitting on my keister. Balance, lower body work out, concentration and mental stimulation added up to great fun. After an hour of intense stroking and an incredible workout, I am sold that a SUP will be my next project.
Of course the SUP project is really a ploy to learn some new skills, kerfing and pretty designs, while creating toys for my kids and grand daughter to use at my house. My wife is on-board too, pardon the pun, as she sees exercise benefits of the SUP.
If anyone has suggestions about this type of build, web sites, forums etc, I would be grateful for your insights.
Thanks. It is with great anticipation that I spend some more quality time on this forum and building another watercraft.
