wind speed question

Good people--
If you've fished windy spots in LA County such as Castaic or Pyramid lakes, what's the maximum wind speed you'll handle before hitting the water?
I'm a strong kicker but don't want to get worn out just trying to hover over a spot.
Your feedback is much appreciated. Thank you.

That's an interesting question. I tend not to evaluate via wind speed so much as location. "Ok, it'll be blowing too hard to fish here, but I can tuck up against this ridge/hill/jetty and be somewhat sheltered". That being said, "too hard to fish" is probs in the 10 knot range. It depends a lot on prep and planning though.
Another classic way to deal with being pushed around, bring a 50 foot roll of para cord and a sock. On shore fill the sock with sand, tie it to the cord and you have a drag anchor to slow you down.
My issue tends to be more towards getting slapped around. Nothing like trying to fish in really tight, steep 2 foot waves. Like trying to sit and do homework while older brother shakes the chair yelling "Earthquake!".

SP Dan and I were just talking about this the other day. Once it picks up over 13 knots it can be problematic and you need some structure or a wind block to keep you safe.

7 miles per hour is a big red flag for me. Time to start planning an escape route.

Great question Theresa,

My absolute session abort is wind speeds of 8-9 mph and greater.

If the wind is blowing toward my launch site then I may launch so that it will blow me right back to my launch site ... once my legs get fatigued.

I've also noted that it's not only the wind that I have to contend with but the wind also moves the top surface of the water in the same direction as the wind as well ... this is when it can become over whelming. So now you are kicking not only against the wind but against the moving water as well. puff puff.

And ... if in a tidal situation ... one needs to consider the IC and OG tidal movements because this will greatly amplify the situation along with the wind and IC /OG water movements, depending on the direction of the tide.

And like Fishbones805 had mentioned ... coordinate your fishing AO's (area of operation) with the wind direction accordingly.
For example ... If the wind is blowing from the N to S direction, fish along the N edge where you will be tucked up against a ridge/ hill/ jetty/ wall/ tree line and be somewhat sheltered.

Heck ... the fish may be doing the same exact same thing ... using shelter!   lol

PS ... wear a wind breaker, be safe and good luck to you out there,

SP Dan     <"))><