GP,

do you think a rectangle that adheres to one of the "golden ratios"
(1:1.4: 1.9 for example) would be a better strategy than the pentagon?

Yes. There are other good ratios too. If you download my Graphical Mode
Calculator (PC only) it lets you play with different dimensions to see their
affect. It also lists several "preferred" ratios. Here's the link:

http://www.realtraps.com/modecalc.htm

--Ethan