View Full Version : Wind and Waves
jimbo2
07-19-2001, 07:07 AM
Does anyone have a rule of thumb for wind vs. wave size on large inland lakes? (on the windy side of the lake that is)
Like 10mph = 1.5 foot waves etc.
Just wondering.
Yes it might be a dumb question, but every body asks one once in a while!
Thanks!
I think it varies due to depth and size of the body of water. I have heard it takes a 17 mph wind to create a white-cap.
I pay particular attention when I'm in the island area of Lake Erie. It seems that on Erie every 5 mph of wind translates to about 1 foot of wave. For example, 10-15 mph wind results in 2-3 foot waves. I'd be interested to here from the Erie regulars whether this is close to correct.
KevinA
07-19-2001, 07:54 AM
This can be calculated with surprising accuracy. Look in a reference book, maybe Chapmans, for the formula. Wind speed & 'fetch' are the biggest factors, maybe water depth too. Fetch being how much distance the wind travels over the water. i.e. a 20 mph west wind within a half mile of the west shore of lake michigan will give you nothing but a ripple on the water while the east shore will be pounded with 4-5 footers. Saw the formula once, can't remember where.
Cangl
07-21-2001, 03:04 AM
As for shore angle Ive never heard a formula for that though its been "demonstrated" to me several times. Western Erie every seventh wave angles at 45 degrees to what your already riding as a large wide swell. Especially when the winds are quartering the coastline. As for depth and wave height which infleunces when the waves break, and the ability of wind to blow water out (Saginaw bay) a chart or formula for navigating that many variables should proably be replaced by boating skills, experience and common sense.
Denied
07-21-2001, 09:24 AM
The National Weather Service will issue a "Small Craft Advisory" when the winds get between 18 and 33 knots, a gale warning at 34 to 47 knots and a storm warning at 48 knots and over. Personally my rule of thumb is "if the winds are over 15 knots it is going to be uncomfortable fishing" so I stay in. Now I have fished during SMA, but it is not one of the smarter things I have done. I have yet to see a walleye worth taking a chance on getting wet over.
Fishing Western Lake Erie aboard "DENIED"
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