Surfers Take Advantage of Ice-Free Lake Superior

STONY POINT, Minn. – The lack of ice on Lake Superior so far this winter gave surfers the chance to get out on the water Wednesday.

Over a half-dozen people took advantage of the waves being formed along the North Shore, gathering at Stony Point to catch the few seconds the right waves would allow.

Duluth resident Bailey Bence says he isn’t complaining about the conditions, since he can drive a few dozen miles to surf, rather than hundreds to reach an ocean.  “It’s got its pros and cons,” says Bence, “like obviously a little colder, a little more harsh conditions, but way more rewarding.  And it’s just crazy to think that we’re surfing on a lake and it’s snowing in the middle of January.”

Bence adds he and others are covered head to two in wetsuits, using thicker ones than what they use in the summer to help keep them warmer longer.  “Little restricting,” says Bence, “but I’d rather be a little restricted than get hypothermia.”

The surfers also appreciate the local surfing community, from the ones who began surfing these waters in the 1990s to those new to the region, which helps keep their equipment in good shape and supports their desire to surf whenever they can.