[141ice]

At what temperature do I stand a chance in Lake Michigan if I were to accidentally roll my kayak while chasing spring coho?

I have the standard safety gear like a life jacket, hand held submersible radio, cell phone, and flair gun. But I don't think this is going to help me out much if I can't catch my breath or feel my extremities when I am in the water.

Does any one have any input?

Also if anyone is looking for a partner or planning a trip near Burnham or 31st Beach/launch let me know. I would feel much safer with another kayak out there.

Thanks,

 

[RonG]

You'd probably do alright during June, July and August. Other than that a wet or dry suit would be what you need.

IF THE WATER TEMPERATURE (F) IS:
EXHAUSTION OR UNCONSCIOUSNESS EXPECTED TIME OF SURVIVAL IS:
32.5 Under 15 Minutes Under 15 - 45 Minutes
32.5 - 40.0 15 - 30 Minutes 30 - 90 Minutes
40.0 - 50.0 30 - 60 Minutes 1 - 3 Hours
50.0 - 60.0 1 -2 Hours 1 - 6 Hours
60.0 - 70.0 2 - 7 Hours 2 - 40 Hours
70.0 - 80.0 3 - 12 Hours 3 Hours - Indefinitely
OVER 80.0 Indefinitely Indefinitely

There are similar charts for picking the correct thickness of wetsuits to match the water temps. Factor in that even if you get back into your kayak and are soaked in ice water and it's windy or cold out, you still may get hypothermia before making it back in to shore.

 

[hckyfish]

141ice

here is a link that will give you lake michigan surface temps so ya know what youre dealing with.

http://www.coastwatch.msu.edu/twomichigans.html

good luck out there

Rob