Travis, How has your rowing experience gone? I know it's been awhile since you said you were going to try it.
I grew up on the intercoastal waterway on the east coast of Fl. as a kid we rowed everywhere.
My 12' jon boat is set up with oars, The sockets are between the rear and middle seat. The best way to row is facing the stern. This way you can put your back into the rowing method. Here is an interesting link:
http://www.ehow.com/how_6779843_size-boat-oars.html
While placing commercial fishing nets, we used extra long oars, stood up, and faced the bow.
Hammy