Wake Surfers Take Advantage Of Warm November On Lake Minnetonka
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- At this time in years' past, ice was already forming on our Minnesota lakes. But thanks to the warm fall, those willing to brave the chilly water temps are doing just that.
A small group of Minnetonka wake surfers are still at it, including Scott Karo. He planned on winterizing his boat a few weeks ago, but that plan changed.
"A day like today -- that's why I wanted to keep my boat, not winterize it until the last point possible," he said. "Just because there are always going to be these days in Minnesota that are blue skies, 60 degrees and why not get on the water."
While the air might feel warm, the water doesn't. It's currently sitting at around 50 degrees. That means suiting up -- the thicker the wetsuit, the better.
Just like Karo, the surf's still up for Omar Dean, even though about 95 percent of the boats on Minnetonka have already been winterized.
"Most people are done for the season, however we find that this is the best time of the year because the water's calm so you're not fighting any boat chop," he said.
And there's nothing better than having the lake to yourself. WCCO's own Molly Rosenblatt even took a turn on the lake.
Those who love the sport say wiping out in the chilly water is more than worth it.
"It's so unique that you're able to ride behind a boat and catch an endless wave with all your friends, front-and-center, watching and cheering you on, and there's just nothing else like it."