Ever thought about trading the salty waves of the ocean for the fresh, smooth waters of a lake? As someone who’s used to the thrill of catching big ocean swells, I’ve recently dived into the world of lake surfing. And let me tell you, it’s a whole different experience!
Surfing on lakes brings its own set of challenges and rewards. If you’re curious about trying lake surfing or just want to expand your surfing skills, here’s a guide to help you adapt from ocean waves to freshwater waves.
Understanding Freshwater Waves
Let’s start with the basics. Freshwater waves are quite different from ocean waves. They tend to be smaller and less powerful. But don’t let that fool you—there’s still a lot of fun to be had. Lakes, especially large ones like the Great Lakes, can create some surprisingly good waves thanks to strong winds and weather. The trick is to adjust your surfing style to handle these unique conditions.
Gear Up: What You Need for Lake Surfing
When it comes to gear, you’ll need to make a few changes:
- Board Choice: Your ocean surfboard might not work as well on a lake. Many surfers on lakes use shorter boards for better control and boards with more volume to help catch the smaller, lighter waves.
- Wetsuits: The water in lakes can be colder than the ocean, especially during the cooler months. You might need a thicker wetsuit to stay warm. Always check the water temperature before heading out.
- Leash and Fins: Make sure your leash is secure and consider using fins designed for freshwater waves. The waves on a lake can feel different from those in the ocean, so having the right fins can make a big difference.
Mastering Freshwater Wave Riding
Adjusting to lake surfing means tweaking your technique:
- Adjust Your Stance: Freshwater waves are usually smaller and less powerful. You might need to adjust your stance and weight. A wider stance can help you stay balanced on the smaller waves.
- Paddle Power: Freshwater waves can be less consistent, so you need to paddle hard and stay alert. Be ready to put in extra effort to catch those waves.
- Wave Timing: The timing for catching waves might be different. Practice to get a feel for the new rhythm and learn when to catch the waves.
Embrace the Adventure
One of the coolest aspects of lake surfing is the change of scenery. You’ll enjoy beautiful lake views and a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the often bustling ocean surf. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy surfing in a new environment and to connect with a different surfing community.
Lake surfing can also offer unique experiences like quieter surf sessions, stunning sunrises over calm waters, and the chance to explore new spots that aren’t on the typical surf map. Plus, you might find yourself discovering hidden gems and meeting other surfers who share your love for the sport.
So, if you’re ready to embrace a new surfing adventure, grab your board, and head to a lake near you. The waves are waiting, and they’re ready to offer you a fresh perspective on your surfing journey.
Written by Coty from Noserider Surf Club
