Sailing Lake Erie?

ImASonOfaSailor · #1 (**permalink**) 11-03-2011

So does anyone sail Lake Erie here, or sail in November ?

FlyNavy · #2 (**permalink**) 11-03-2011

I can’t speak from recent experience but having grown up on the shores of Lake Erie near Buffalo, I seem to recall that all of the Marinas were empty by November. The storms can come quite quickly and often and they can come with heavy winds and snow.
All that being what it is, I still have some great memories of Hobie Cat sailing right up to and including the first day the lake freezes over. So, I would say that if you can get your boat in and out easily, understand the weather and don’t mind the cold, go out and enjoy these perfect Indian Summer afternoons.

msmith10 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-03-2011

I've sailed Lake Erie for 53 of my 60 years. In my youth I was toward the Eastern end of the Lake, but for the past 40 years, at the west end. The two are quite different. The west end of Lake Erie is quite shallow- you'll never see over 45 feet on the depth meter, and usually less than 30. The water level drops about 1-1/2 to 2 feet in October. A west wind of over 20 knots will drive it down several feet further. This can cause some problems getting boats hauled out in late October or November. The majority of boats are out by mid October, and 90-95% of the boats are out by the end of October. Also, although you may get a nice day here and there, for the most part, it's over.
When I was a kid with a centerboarder, I sailed right up through Thanksgiving, but I don't like the risk of getting stranded with low water now.
If you get out of the western basin, depth isn't as much a problem, but the weather ain't good.

bljones · #4 (**permalink**) 11-03-2011

North shore here. We sail until they lock the dock, on Oct. 31 every year.

ImASonOfaSailor · #5 (**permalink**) 11-05-2011

wow, i live an hour south of Erie PA. i normally just go up in winter for a drive to see what the lake looks like. Its freakin COLD! i am dont as soon as its in the 50's here, I think i am still a southern boy!

msmith10 · #6 (**permalink**) 11-05-2011

Dear Ms saviourbaby,
How are things in Nigeria this morning? By any chance are you a former high-ranking government employee who needs a place to shelter a few million dollars for a short time?