Cris

This is my first Kudzu craft Vardo. Nothing seems to show how long to leave the two outer upper frame members. I understand the combing rests on the outside two on the front, but how long do they have to be? On the back, are they cut off just long enough to lash the frame members down? There is a small little frame member on the plans at 8 ft 2 inches, but it appears my set of plans has a frame member that already includes this part. Is the separate frame member needed? Thanks for any guidance.

This will be my first kayak build. I have some woodworking experience and the necessary tools. I'm not sure what kayak to build for use in the gulf of mexico. I am 6'1" and 180 lbs.