by Kenny » Mon Aug 20, 2007 10:59 am
The best launches at Utah Lake are SSB and Lincoln. You can ride the north end, but the wind is never as smooth. The extra 15 - 20 minutes drive time is worth it IMHO. I haven't tried Lindon yet this year. Maybe Arpi can give us a report because he lives nearby.
There are a couple kiters that ride at Saratoga. I have never tried launching over there.
On a south wind day, the best locations are probably Deercreek and Pineview. I have never kited at Pineview on the water, so I will let someone else tell you about the launch. I have a love/hate relationship going with Deercreek. The launch area at island beach is a bit muddy, but it is a decent launch. If the wind is on the light side (7.5 - 8.5 on Craig's forecast) the wind is very rideable. You just need a large kite (your 17 will do nicely) and perhaps a large board. Just beware that when you start getting some large intermittent lulls that it is time to head for shore because the wind can shut down completely and the north end of the lake is nasty, sticky mud. When the wind is stronger it becomes more difficult to manage 10 - 30 or 10 - 40 is often common on a strong south day, but some days it can be strong and more like 15 - 25 which is much more manageable. I have just had better luck with the lighter days getting good rides and not taking a beating in the gusts. The water is so low that the boat traffic has been greatly reduced. The water is also nice and warm. I just wear a rash guard for sun protection.