Even though we are in the middle of the country, windsurfing in Minnesota provides the whole spectrum of different types of windsurfing. You can wave sail on Superior, swell ride on Byllesby or Mille Lacs. You can rip around at quite a few lakes in-town after work in the Twin Cities or sneak away for Gorge-like conditions on Pepin when the South-Easters blow through.

The winds in Minnesota tend to be the strongest in the spring and fall, with predominately light breezes in summer. You'll see a small group of die hard sailors in drysuits out as soon as the ice thaws in the spring, and the parking lots get more and more full till about mid June. The summer sailors tend to be a much more social bunch, enjoying the day together whether or not the wind blows. As the fall approaches and the mega-wind Alberta Clippers come in, the die hards return to the water with their small gear. The crowd dwindles as it gets colder, though there is an elite group who sail up until the water turns solid.

The key to enjoying windsurfing in Minnesota is using your options. If you can take the time, check the forecasts and drive to get wind. Rarely is the wind the same across the region. If you don't have the time to drive, rig for the conditions and enjoy what time you do get on the water. The new light wind equipment is awesome and opens up a whole new level of enjoyment for those evening, afterwork sessions or the quick session at the family picnic. However much you get out, enjoy it. The wind, water and the ability to enjoy them are gifts.

Tech Manual
Glossary of Windsurfing terms

Safety and Rules of the Water
Sharing the Lake ( Windsurfers and Kiters)

Writings by Luigi Semenzato

Lessons
Ride for Life

Gear
Dakine: bags, harnesses, accessories
Chinook: Booms, bases and accessories
Fiberspar: Masts, bases, and booms
Powerex: Masts
Promotion Wetsuits
O'Neill Gear
True Ames Fins
NorthShore Inc
Gulftech Booms