[quote=rpiper138]Jdhugger,
The length of the boat isn't the only factor that will determine how well it will work for you. That being said, a 240 acre lake doesn't really lend itself very well to almost any cat that you would want to take on Lake Michigan.
A few questions:
- How far is the trip to Lake Michigan and where would you launch from?
I used to launch from the South East side of the lake (Jean Kloch Park, Benton Harbor MI) and the prevailing winds cause the surf to be formidable. There are not many place to launch from the Michigan side (most launch sites have a bridge between the site and the lake). I hear Wisconsin is much more cat friendly (lots of beaches and offshore prevailing winds).
- How far is it from the parking lot at the launch site to the water? What is the terrain like?
If it is more than 50 yards across sand, go for a lighter boat. Hobie Getaway weighs about 400 lbs.
- What is the shoreline like on the small lake that you plan to use?
If it is rough, go with a roto-molded boat. I hit something last Saturday that was submerged in the water on a 30,000 acre lake and caused $2500 in damage. Fiberglass will give higher performance, but is not as durable.
- What is your budget?
It appears that you are looking for two boats. One open water boat and one small lake boat.
- How much experience do you have?
Lake Michigan can be a little unforgiving. If less experienced, consider a boat with a jib since it makes it much easier to punch through surf and you can cheat when tacking in rough seas.
- Combined crew weight?
<!-- editby --><em>edited by: rpiper138, May 01, 2009 - 05:01 PM</em><!-- end editby --> [/quote]
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