Donovan,

Help would be great. I go back and forth between plans and kit. I think my first project would be a learning experience and I'd like to keep the cost of my mistakes to a minimum. I priced out the bill of materials for the Merganser using the Jamestown Distributors catalog and Okoume pricing from Johnson lumber on Burton Street. I came up with almost $700 and the Shearwater kit has surplus built in, higher quality resin than I priced, precut and drilled wood and is only $900.

I was hoping to start with a $500 budget so I guess I need to shop harder. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Oh, by the way. I'm just off Pine Island and 6 mile north of 5/3 Ball Park. As the crows fly about 1/2 mile from the Grand and a couple miles from the Rogue. And I'd definitely like a chance to paddle your Merganser. Possibly on Reeds Lake or a flat stretch of the Thornapple. I enjoy current plenty but this project will be for a flat(but bumpy)water boat.

Thanks,

Anson

: Anson,

: There are a few of us in the west Michigan area who have a few boats under
: our belts and would be glad to give you a hand if you would like some
: help.

: Donovan