[Rhodes22-list] Smith Mountain Lake

[Rob Granger]

Hi Mac

Yep I'm on SML.  There is a lot of boat traffic on the weekends but Monday
through about 4:00 on Friday the lake is mostly empty.  Starting about 4:30
Friday, the jet skis and tubers start showing up.

But the power boaters also seem to have a strange mental barrier with
respect to Memorial Day and Labor Day.  That is the "boating season" in
their minds.  Before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, the lake is empty.
The best sailing is in early Spring and early Fall anyway.   So I'd plan a
vacation then.  Wind is more reliable in the Spring but it is usually good
in the Fall.  And the water is warmer in the Fall and makes for a better
swimming experience.  Sailing at SML is usually good until Nov. 1.  Then
things get cold.

A strange thing about the weather at SML in the months of June, July and
early Aug.  There is a very predictable lull in the wind starting around
3:30-4:00-ish in the afternoon and lasting until about 6:00.  I'm guessing
evaporation from the water produces a local high pressure?????  But what
ever the reason, you can count on it.   We always plan our day to be at
anchor in a cove around 3:30.  Sandwiches and a swim/nap until about 6:00
then head back out.

Regarding the surgery!  I appreciate the kind words but I think you have me
confused with someone else (maybe the Original Rob?) (-- Original Rob did
you have surgery).  I did not have surgery this year.

The other Rob