Windy Conditions

[fishn]

How much wind does it take to make it dangerous. I only ask because conditions for tomorrow calls for 15-20mph winds. Dont want to drag the boat out only to see white caps on the lake. Also does it matter river vs lake.

[shiltsy]

Fishn,

It depends on three factors:

1. length of your boat

2. size of body of water

3. length of your skirt ;-)

Only kidding of course. I'd feel comfortable with my 19' Skeeter in 20 mph winds. My previous 16' aluminum with 10 hp got a little hairy when the whitecaps showed up.

Hope that helps... lots of pro's on here that will give you some good feedback.

[CRAZYEYES]

How much it takes to make it dangerous depends on the size of the boat and the experience of the operator. I've been out in some strong winds with experienced people and have been just fine. The best advice is dont push your comfort level.

[Deitz Dittrich]

really depends as the above poster states on the experience of the boater. Even in a very large boat, if careless you can get yourself in trouble pretty easy. Believe it or not, but the lake its self also plays into it. 20mph winds on Mille Lacs or Leech are totally different than 20 mph winds on Tonka.. Shallow lakes get nasty much quicker.

[mww24]

if it looks scary don't go. Stick to your comfort level. Or find a protected bay. Last summer was my first owning a boat and i never took it out on real windy days. didnt feel comfortable to do so. this summer i'll take it a little further. You can always fish when the wind subsides. but you wont if your boat gets swamped or even worse. good luck.

[Seven_Sunnies]

Great info guys...I've had the same question!

Remember to be wearing a PFD when you do...

Anyone have any suggestions for some quick good resources on boat handling on windy or rough waters? Honestly, I live on the MN River and don't even like the thought of being on that with all the junk submerged in that muddy water. Just the other night, heard a little motor whining up the current about 11 PM and thought those dudes had lost their minds!

Thanks guys!