I run a 16/48 in the nasty big lake slop often and never get wet, but I run standing up. I think of it like im running a big jet ski that can take on water...Depending on how much confidence you have in the motor will determine how to run. I prefer to have waves to the bow on the way back in vs to the transom. That's the reasoning for keeping a good anchor on the boat, in hairy conditions if in an emergency you can anchor with waves to the bow and enough anchor line to just roll back and forth over the waves without taking on water. Its all about planning and knowing the forecast. I keep an eye on the Doppler until I launch and a lot of times while im on the lake...I'd say 10-15mph south wind would be the maximum a 16ft boat with a some deadrise can handle. I've headed south in the channel during a 10-15mph south wind with the bow trimmed down a few times and it wasn't that bad, just gotta take it a little slower and be patient
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