[Paddlewise] skeg plans

Ulli Hoeger asked about skeg materials and I thought I'd add my two cents 
worth to give everyone something to think about:

I would not use aluminum in a skeg and would not have aluminum in the water 
as either a skeg or a rudder on any kayak because there is some evidence it 
attracts sharks.  It is a well know fact that AL in sea water under goes a 
slow chemical reduction called electrolysis, it breaks down the molecules 
on the surface and discharges a weak electric current in the water.  It has 
been suspected by researchers that this current is mistaken by the sensing 
organs on a shark as an injured fish thrashing in the water.  There also 
have been a number of antidotal reports that support this idea because 
sharks have attacked boat props, rudders, etc. including one scary story of 
a sea kayaker I think in the Deep Trouble book who had an aluminum skeg on 
his kayak.

I personally do not prefer a rudder but if you regularly paddle in known 
shark waters I would replace any aluminum rudders or skegs, or at the very 
least put several coats of a tough paint on it.

I would think for an all wood S&G kayak a wood skeg would be plenty strong, 
especially if you put a layer of fiberglass over it.


Peter



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