Need some insight

As with most boating on the main lake, it is governed by weather.  The absolute safest is alunching out of Lampe or East Ave and fish the "pocket" between Gull Point and 4 mile.  There are smallies there, maybe not in great numbers, but enough to have fun.  If it's calm (<2') Shades Beach and Northeast both have good smally populations fairly close to shore. 
 
 If a guy uses his head, a 14 footer works fine for lots of situations.w_w.

I also have a 14'er that I take out on the main lake as well. After doing this for 16+ yrs you learn to know the limits and capabilities the boat can handle. Yes weather plays a huge role in taking a 14' boat out there but if you use your head and be safe and keep an eye on the sky you will have many safe and successful trips fishing. I dont have a problem running 4-6 miles out of east ave and going past the point or around it to go perch fishing or trolling for walleyes. You just have be aware of what the marine forecast has said for the day. When winds shift the lake can change in a matter of 15 minutes and you need to pay attention and make a decision on whether to stay out or pack it in. Just keep a level head and make the right decisions so you have the chance to go out fishing again.