Just get out there and sail it. You need to capsize and right it, because you will capsize-that's not an if, it's a when. But that's ok, they are made to capsize and recover. You just need to learn your best technique and to not be afraid of them. When you're on a small inland lake is the time to push the boundaries, learn what the boat will do, and how you can best control it, and then what to do when you've lost control. Get confident at that, then sail Lake Michigan.
I kept my Hobie Getaway on Lake Michigan the first year I owned it. (My 3rd catamaran and about my 7th small sailboat) Some lessons I learned were that truly good sailing days are rare; half the time the wind is piddling, 1/4 of the time the wind is good and the waves are manageable, and 1/4 of the time the waves beat you to death. I don't know why, but the waves on Michigan are short, steep and brutal.
When you go out on Lake Michigan, I would suggest you carry 3 things: a waterproof hand-held VHF radio (on your PFD, not the boat. It does you no good if you get separated from the boat), a set of flares in a ziplock bag, and a small compass (the fog sometimes comes in quickly, and this can guide you to the proper shore). It's a cold lake, so consider wetsuit or drysuit on anything more than bluebird days. I know this seems like a lot, but like my Great Lakes mentor said to me when I said, "but I have such a little boat"..."Yup, and it's a great big lake."
_________________ Yet another Bob! "Firefly" - 2012 Hobie Getaway with wings and spinnaker "Sparky" - 1978 Sunfish (OK, it's not a Hobie, but it's a fun little craft) Too many canoes and kayaks
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