I recently shared some insights on another forum about the merits of a windSUP on Lake Michigan. For those who are interested, here is some additional information on WindSUPing from one of the iWindsurf forums that I had bookmarked a while ago:

**************

Anyone interested in WindSUP-ing here 2 interesting articles:

Peter Hart Masterclass - Wave riding the long and SUP of it
http://issuu.com/arcwindltdpublishing/docs/harty321novdec

WINDSUP BUYERS GUIDE
http://www.windsurf.co.uk/windsup-buyers-guide/

************
Good info for those who might be considering this option.

I *never* go to Lake Michigan without my "windsup" board. It guarantees me water time unless there's lightning! Un-skunkable

I have a Fanatic 10'6" Fly, and sailing light wind / good wave conditions on it are every bit as memorable and fun as the 4.7 days on a little waveboard.

I highly recommend a lightweight 5.3~5.8 sail that can luff (cough superfreak cough) for optimal performance. Don't bother with straps or a harness, but I found a short loop of line tied to the leash insert (on the tail) is extremely helpful for launching and dragging it back onto the beach.

Drew