Is kayaking Lake Michigan (or any other major lake) hard?

Question

I live on a small lake where there are rarely any waves at all. I'm pretty experienced kayaking there, but I've never tried to at lake michigan. I've seen people doing it before, but I want to know what's different about it? I've heard people talk about surfing on a kayak, what does that mean? Also, is it hard to even get out there if there are any waves going on? What about rip currents, are those dangerous while kayaking? Any other tips would be appreciated, if I do go out I'd be going with a friend. Oh, and also, the kayaks we have are smaller sized ones so idk if those would be bad or something to use on a big lake? They're about 10 feet long and weigh around 40 pounds.

Thanks to anyone that can help

Answer 1

I live on the Gulf of Mexico, Kayak all the time, it's salty not fresh and we have sharks here! Lake Michigan should be just as doable. Just don't go past you comfort range, if the waves start to get up-come back in or put your skirt on. Dress for the water, and temp. I wear a shorty down hear in the winter. By all means wear your PFD , take others. There is a guy who went from California to Hawaii by kayak, so a little fun on the lake as others do is FUN FUN FUN

Answer 2

Check out Chicago Kayak for a great group of sea kayakers, and CASKA. You will find safety information and classes. Don't be a fool - our Lake Michigan is much more dangerous than she seems. Kayaking a small lake in a rec boat is nothing like Lake Michigan - currents alone can send you far off. You need basic safety equipment and flotation. DON"T DO IT without taking a sea kayak rescue class (easily available) - and for sure don't ride in a rec boat.

Answer 3

Based on your description of your kayaks it sounds like you have basic "rec" boats which are fine for small lakes and shallow rivers. But I would advise caution in attempting to paddle in Lake Michigan. The Great Lakes are essentially fresh water seas and have more in common with the ocean, with strong surf, colder water, quickly developing storms and strong currents. You can easily get in trouble and even die if you aren't prepared and experienced in some basic techniques. Ask yourself if you would go out in the Atlantic or Pacific ocean in your 10' boat. A rec boat would have trouble in surf since they are so short and wide and will tend to windc*ck sideways and be swamped. Boats for surfing are very long and narrow with sharp keel lines.



Check out some of the video clips on YouTube from the series "This is the Sea" to see what open water kayaking looks like from the paddler's point of view.



I lived in West Michigan about 30 miles from the lakeshore and used to take my 15' sea kayak out on the lake so I know what it's capable of. At minimum you need a spray skirt, full flotation bags, a spare paddle, a hand pump and a paddle float (for self-rescue.) If you don't have those it is really not safe to get out in open water. Have you practiced wet exits (when your boat flips)? Rec style boats are usually not well suited to rolling, but that would be perferable to bailing out. Do you know how to get back into your boat if you are in deep water? Are you confident and strong enough to paddle your boat back to shore if you get caught in a current?



Even the more protected beaches can be hazardous -- in fact two of my cousins were drowned 15 years ago just swimming on what began as a nice tranquil day in Lake Michigan on a guarded beach when a sudden squall came up and swept them out -- both were strong swimmers but both were tragically killed.



Sorry to sound so negative -- just want to make sure you are safe. You can really have an enjoyable time kayaking the beautiful Lake Michigan shore -- with the right gear and some practice it's a wonderful experience. Why don't you contact one of the outfitters (there was a good one in Grand Haven if you are in Michigan -- I'm sure there are some on the Illinois or Wisconsin shores if you are on that side)? Most kayak dealers offer classes and tours so you can try it safely and under the care of a guide.

Answer 4

Lake Michigan can be very cold. Air and water temperature need be over 100 degrees F. Waves can easily topple you and your canoe if you lack expertise and experience. Lake waves affect boats the opposite of river waves. Don't get out too far. Don't boat alone. You also need be aware of large boats! Can you roll?

Answer 5

II used to liive,no there is 2,((justgot a computer)the lake of the Ozarks.by the way,perfectionist(like I used to before i passed away, and was in a coma for3months) so i wouldn't judge by her cover! MO...south west

Answer 6

I have always found the American Canoe Association to be knowledgeable about paddlesports, check out their website. www.americancanoe.org