New to windsurfing

[eightbit3055]

I did the windsurfing thing in Florida on vacation and fell in love with it. So I'm going to get my own gear. My question is what are the laws for Illinois and maybe Indiana. Is it like Florida where you can jump in the water anywhere? Also I hear that in some states you must wear a life jacket or a wet suit? Thanks in advance.

[freebird]

Just pick a spot jump in and go...no rules mate...just be aware of trespassing and keep within your limit/skill range for the body of water you are launching in. A wetsuit can save your life until you get more aquainted with your personal limitations. ..Keep you out of trouble.

[eightbit3055]

Thanks for the reply.

[Frank Scotello]

Illinois and Indiana don't require life-jackets, but some flotation is always helpful. Wetsuits add a little flotation and, of course, warmth. A wetsuit also extends your season into the cooler months. This is a good time to buy new gear. Last year' models are cheaper since all the new gear is just now coming out. Where are you located?

[eightbit3055]

Thanks a lot for that bit of information. I plan on buying the 2007, 2008 gear. A mixture of used and new. And yeah a wetsuit is a must since it get's cold up here. I live in Tinley park.

[Perry Biddle]

Aren't there some access fees on some parts on Lake Michigan?

[eightbit3055]

What do you mean access fee's? like to get on a beach or parking?

[i42]

I have heard about access fees. I believe on the north side of Chicago some of the beaches have a fee mainly for parking. I would suggest using the "Launches" tab at the top of this website. It is very helpful. What area are you in? I am sure someone on this forum would be willing to ride with you.

On the wetsuit and life jacket topic, I highly recommend that you dress for the swim in. You never know when something will break/wind will die/ wind gets two strong .... Unless I have friends out riding with me I wear a life jacket, and I float around in the water for 2-3 min to make sure I am comfortable in the water. It is always more fun to be comfortable in the water than to be cold.

Have fun, and someday maybe I will catch you on the water.

Cheers,

Alex
US292

[eightbit3055]

Thanks i42, I live in Tinley Park but I'm only about 30 minutes away from Whihala Beach. That would be pretty cool to meet up with some people out there. I'm sure either way I'll be finding windsurfers out in the water. First I need to get some gear so soon after I figure out what I want I'll make a different post asking what I should get.

[Paul Betts]

Even when the weather warms up, wear a PFD. Not only is it safer, it'll help you with your windsurfing skills and learning curve. For instance, it'll be a lot easier for you to learn water starts with a life jacket than without one - and your being safe in the process. Best of luck.