Pete:

I built a 17LT from plans. I don't have a lot of experience with it yet as I just launched a couple weeks ago, but first impressions are it fits me fine (6', 180lbs, size 11 shoe). It is a very stable boat, average speed for a boat of this size and width. If I had any complaints, I'd say it is probably more volume than I need for day paddling. In the CLC line, I'd consider a 16LT if I were doing it again. I demo-ed a CLC North Bay and found it a bit too long for my taste. I find a like a more compact boat. Ah, the search for the perfect boat!

Craig