I researching all the different makes and models of kayaks and wanted to hear the thoughts of from anyone with experience in Boundary Waters and Quetico. I know rotomolded is extremely durable especially with the nature of the rocky landings around the area. I really have my heart set on a fiberglass, but wonder how feasible fiberglass would be in Quetico. I planning a trip in August and want to spend most of my time around Quetico/Cirrus and Beaverhouse lakes since there is so much area to explore and little portaging with the particular trip I'm planning. I would love to get some feedback on this.

Brian

I have always used roto-molded boats and have enjoyed the durability and ability to absorb some impact.

However, I would think it would just be a matter of being a little more careful in a fiberglass boat. If that is the boat that you are comfortable paddling and portaging, then just be cautious in the rock gardens.

The rocks I worry about are those ones out in the lake that are just under the surface... you don't see them until its too late. But that sucks no matter what your boat is made of.

Its like canoes. Plastic canoes can take a beating. Old Town triple layer canoes are tanks and nearly indestructible. but to you really want to carry a 90 lbs boat?

i started out with rotomolded kayaks in the 50 + lbs category. I watched Craigslist ads and gradually sold and bought used boats until I have the two kayaks I have now. I have a Perception Sonoma 12 footer that is an "aerolite" boat. . .just 35 lbs. Basically a day tripper. I also have a Necky Looksha IV made out of kevlar that is 17 1/2 feet long and just 50 lbs. That is my tripping boat. Either one can be carried easily on your shoulder.

Before you buy a kayak for tripping, try lifting it and carrying it completely around the store. Then add 10-15 lbs for the gear you don't take out of the boat.

One other thought. The Necky mentioned above I found used on Craigslist for $1000. It is a $2,500 boat and was in brand new condition still with the original tags on it.

Rotomolded and plastic boats are for rivers where you are going to be slamming in to rocks. Kevlar kayaks are trippers in the same way kevlar caones are.

One other thought. . .there are a lot more options then plastic and fiberglass. Kayaks come in rotomolded designs, fiberglass, aerolite composites, kevlar composites and kevlar. Price goes up as weight goes down.

Thanks for all the feedback. That was very helpful.

Presuming you are somewhat new to kayaking, a few comments...
Comments on weight and price are right on. Unless you are doing some significant portages I doubt the extra money is worth it. Rotomolded boats hold up well. I have hit those just under the surface rocks in my tsunami. Nearly rolled but the boat had only a slight scratch.
Length is important. On bigger waters I would hesitate to go out in a boat less than 14 feet and would prefer at least 16. Not only the better tracking and speed of a longer boat, you get improved handling should the wind come up. And don't forget your spray skirt.
Also ditto on the carry it around for awhile. You can get a yoke system to work on some boats, but shoulder carrying over a portage or two will give you some nice abrasions on your shoulder. Use a pad of some type.
Check hatches have adequate openings to stow your gear and do not count on them being water tight. Have a plan to pack the gear into some type of pack to carry over as well.
Finally, I have looked at doing a similar trip. Let us know how it goes. thanks.

a composite, assuming it is made well, will be stiffer and consequently more efficient

plus, if you have ever paddled both, the composites are so much more a joy to paddle (composites=fiberglass, kevlar, wood strip ...) because of their stiffness, yoou get much better feedback