If you are fishing between the islands or just around them , you can hide alittle but the direction can change in a hurry. South and Westerly lite winds are better for small boats. I use a website call Windfinder.com and just enter Port Clinton as the location. It gives the hour forecast and is normally close. It has been right on as far out as 5 - 6 days. Give me a call if you are not sure. Just always lead to the side of safety.