Need Info

Redskeeter:
A few questions:
Are you planning to fish out of Presque isle or another area?
What do you want to target as your fish of choice (Smallmouth I assume)?
Some tips:
You will need a Pa. fishing license with an Erie stamp. Your son will as well if he is over 16. you will also need PFD's, flairs, and a marine radio. The fish police will be out in full force on that weekend. Do not attempt the lake in a "BASS" style boat with waves over 2 feet. The Bay is a good choice in Presque isle bay if the water does not cooperate. PM me and I will put you on to some areas you may want to try as well as baits I have had some success with.

A marine band radio is NOT required, but not a bad idea to have.

Youre right. I have a birthday coming up so if the kids borrow enough $$ off me, I should have one soon.

Per PA FishComm...

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT (NOT REQUIRED BY LAW)

Paddles or oars

Anchors with sufficient line

Dock lines

Extra clothing

Food and water

Marine radio or cellular phone

Tool kit

Flashlight

Bailer

Fenders

First aid kit

Charts and compass

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Spare fuses and bulbs

Gas can

Extra line or throw bag

Visual distress signals (required on Lake Erie)Link to requirements:


http://fishandboat.com/boatcrs/03boathandbook/legal9.htm

Guys:

Safety first, fish second. This lake is one of the best lakes in the world for fishing and general fun. It is also one of the most dangerous. The marine radio not only helps you communicate with other boats, the weather channel can give you advance warning of unstable weather. Most of the "old timers" know what I mean. This body of water is huge, actually a fresh water ocean. Be smart, tell someone where your going, when your going and what time you will be back. Don't be afraid to ask questions at the ramp or bait stores. Enjoy yourself but be careful.

Well, as far as having a hotel near a boat ramp--one that you would also be comfortable having your kid with you--there are a few near the peninsula. Google hotels, and check on the map. Sorry but none are coming to mind right now and I live here. But remember, if you are coming from Kentucky, even 20 minutes is not a bad ride to the lake. As far as using a bass boat, I would first recommend Presque Isle Bay. Look on the map at places like Misery Bay, Thompson Bay. These are popular places. Do not even think about the lagoons unless you are using an electric motor. Gas engines are forbidden back in there and you can only go so far before it really shallows out.

Memorial day weekend you may have to compete with Jet skis and the like.

You may get out on the Lake, but if you do, make sure you know the weather and how to get back to the ramp. I have watched the lake go from glass to 4 footers in a little over an hour. It really is a small sea instead of a lake. I have been caught out there in such a situation--it really improved my prayer life. A number of years back there was a bass tourney on the lake and it kicked up. A number of guys were in bass boats and had quite a bit of trouble.

Here is the link to the map for Presque Isle: http://www.fisherie.com/Map9.asp

beagler