[Paddlewise] serial numbers

Hi folks,

I received a message from a paddler that finally found a kayak he wanted,
purchased it and has been buying basic equipment.  Then he read an
article about "Lost and Found" kayaks that made him concerned about the
fact his boat does not have the serial number in the location where
the manufacturer told him it should be.  Seems I recall that some outfitters
will remove serial numbers when they sell some of their rental fleet.
Is that correct?  This paddler is now attempting to find information about
lost or stolen kayaks in the Florida area to be sure he can paddle his
kayak without concern.  

He says "I very much want to get in it for the first time, but won't as
long as I feel there's a chance that it may have been stolen.  As it is, 
It sits on my living room floor just begging to go!  If it had a tail to 
wag, I'm sure it would be doing so."

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!

Jackie

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