We had been waiting all summer for the opportunity to get some rough water photos on Lake Erie. Finally, when we had the right combination of weather, photographer and time we went to Walnut Creek Access in Fairview, PA a famous Perch and Steelhead fishing spot.

The wind was 25k gusting to 30+ and to make it a lot more interesting, a sizeable sand bar had built up in front of the entrance channel, making the run out nearly impossible for small boats because the wind was out of the north east, instead of the usual westerlies. This wind direction is straight into the mouth of the marina.

The fishing was hot that week and there were quite a number of disappointed anglers and boats in the parking lot waiting for a break. There was not another boat in sight on the water. Instead, a crowd formed around the photographer to watch “the crazy guy” try to make it out of the marina. I made it. Here are a few of the more dramatic shots.

Ken Handman
Designer/Owner
Port Erie Catamarans

CAUTION,  DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE ANY SMALL BOAT UNDER SIMILAR CONDITIONS.  ALWAYS WEAR A PFD WHEN OPERATING A SMALL BOAT.