I know it seems crazy to use walnut for this, but I have a huge pile of it that I can dig some straight grained out of. Is there any reason not to use it? I know that its a bit heavier than white oak, but I think I can handle that.

Other option is some kiln dried douglas fir that I have. Any idea how that bends? It would definitely be lighter than the walnut, but probably not as strong.

I've built 4 plywood SOF Kayaks over the years, but after doing a canoe trip with a fiberglass boat this summer I'm thinking of building a traditional SOF canadian solo canoe. I think my 4 year old son will be old enough next summer for a few days out in the wilderness if we go by boat.

I've also got a bunch of salvaged redwood begging to be gunwhales and stringers.

Thanks,

John