TreeFrawg, sorry about that confusing reply. It was intended for a different thread. Not sure how it ended up on your thread.
Anyway, your crankbaits will work. One of the most popular baits throughout the season is the deep diving Bandit. My favorite color is blue chrome. We're about to start with trolling crawler harnesses also. I would troll with your planer boards. Learn to use them. There are so many walleye in the western basin that drift and cast has made a comeback. Cast crawler harnesses or the old Erie Dearies.
I would not fear Lake Erie but I certainly respect her, especially with winds out of the east. Watch the weather forecasts and check the weather when out on the water.
You certainly need a VHF radio on Erie. I would suggest you get a base mount 25 watt radio with a good Shakespeare antenna. A handheld (5 watts) is good as a backup. It's all about range. The fixed mount can transmit about 15 miles or more depending on antenna heights and conditions, whereas the handheld will go 5 miles maybe. Big difference when you need help. Also, make sure you have all the required safety gear.
Hope this helps.