I own a 17 foot deep V boat with a 40hp tiller that I use to go Salmon and Perch fishing with on Lake Michigan.

I have to keep an eye on the weather reports and I have a few different protected launching areas that I choose based on the wind conditions.

If the weather looks as though it is going to turn bad, I can run at about
35 mph if I need to.

I have been out on days where Lake Michigan has went from dead calm
to 4 footers as well. I take it slow, trim my motor up and "moon shot"
the boat through the waves until I reach a protected area or a safe harbor.

I am thinking about planning a trip to Lake Erie's Western Basin, probably somewhere West of Port Clinton and was wondering what time of year the walleyes are closest to shore so that I can still use my boat, yet be close enough to shore where I can head back safely if the weather starts to turn bad?

I really don't want to "wimp out" and change my plans to the Detroit River,
but I could use some advice regarding what time of year to come, and
recommendations for a launch site where I wouldn't need to run for 10 miles
to get to the fish.

Any suggestions, or do you think that I am just nuts???

Your advice would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Ken