I don't like to bounce around on the lake in 3 foot waves, especialy when they have a few 4 footers thrown in when your not looken. Love the Lake Erie chop and enough wind to keep you moving for the drift and to keep the bugs off you. If I take guests out, they always get sick in 3 foot waves. The 17 footer would be fine for 2 feet or less, but remember as in any boat watch the weather so you can get back to port in case of nasty weather.