Hi Mark,

By chance, is the boat less than 11' long? Short, wide recreational-style boats are NOT strong trackers. I've also found that if the paddler is turned a bit, or leaning to one side, the lack of directional stability is even more pronounced.

When I'm in a boat like that, I focus on paddling a LOT: how far you reach forward makes a difference. Stop the stroke when the paddle blade is at your hip, it makes a difference. Don't reach out farther to one side than the other. Dip the blade the same on both sides. Pull with the same strength on both sides. Sit upright (don't use the seatback or backband.) All of these little things can help you keep the boat going straighter, and after a while don't take as much thinking.

In my mind, they're all easier than trying to weld anything onto polyethylene. Plus, the paddling skill will translate to ANY kayak! ;-)

-Greg H