Mossback, I can't think of a true solo boat that you'd want your bigger pack in front of you, given the distance it would take to account for leg room. Better to have weight closer to the center and adjust trim with smaller packs even if they're out of reach.
Was the article you read talking about solo tripping using a tandem or tripping in general? If so then it would be true.

As for trim too much either way is too much. Different boats and conditions should only take slight adjustments either way once you're close to an even balance.

As for the doldrums, yes it is. But I'm waiting for snow. Come on blizzard.