If you can't find someone to lend you a boat, a water rower rowing machine is a pretty good stand in. You can find those at fitness equipment dealers and gyms.

Laszlo

   Thanks Laszlo, I had wondered about that. Plenty of hours in those seats over the years but long ago. I gave up because the machines I used then were not adjustable for body types and so over time created more grief than benefit for me. 

I'll look around to see if there are some public available trials this summer - maybe LL Bean or Maine Sport.Outfitters.

There are many sliding-seat scullers out there, the majority of whom are not boat builders. Try a local rowing club, or Adirondack Rowing. Or maybe a local college rowing program could help. 

   Rowme,

I may be able to help, I built a Wherry with a sliding seat a few years ago, I have been having a blast.  I also have a Concept 2 indoor rower that I use and do some instructing with.  

I'm in the Portland area and would be happy to connect and do a little rowing.  

Tim

Hi Tim,
 

Thanks for the offer. If you'll be around in late April - I would love to come join you for a short session. I'll contact you here again then or you can contact me at your convenience with email  HERE 

Cheers, Ray