> Now that that's done, I have to ask: Do you really NEED a skeg on a
> Cheasapeake 17? I paddle a Pygmy Arctic Tern (17'), and it needs no skeg.
> Your Chessie has a squared-off stern that makes for much longer waterline
> than my Tern, so I wouldn't think you would need it. It will just add
> weight.

> Do you plan on going into some zen-like trancendental paddling state but
> wish to maintain course while you're oblivious to the world? Actually, it
> can happen...

> Dean

Good question. I am aware of the wonderful tracking inherent to the Ches. 17 design during normal paddling. While I expect to be in a transcendental state on many trips, my sideline interest is in longer trips where I might want to take a rest from the paddling and throw up a small sail. I thought about the rudder and don't want to ruin the deck just yet. Thanks for the link! p.c.