Episode 120: Michael Pisarczyk – The Great Lakes Waterman
In the latest episode of the Foil Life Podcast, we sit down with fellow Canadian Michael Pisarczyk, a true multi-discipline waterman based in Sarnia, Ontario, right on the shores of Lake Huron. Dubbed the "Great Lakes Waterman," Michael shares his infectious passion for everything from windsurfing and kiting to wing foiling, prone foiling, downwinding, and even e-foiling with his kids.
Why the Great Lakes Are a Hidden Foiling Gem
Michael lives with Lake Huron literally in his backyard, making it easy to chase sessions whenever conditions fire up. He describes the lakes as "world-class" when the wind aligns, with massive fetch building rolling swells that rival ocean conditions—without the consistency of trade winds, making those epic days even more special.
He highlights standout spots:
Home base in Sarnia: Perfect for most directions, with quick access to the St. Clair River (a "mini Hood River" with opposing current for endless runs).
Downwind runs: Lexington to Port Huron (30km) or even longer 50km epics on north winds across the US side.
Other lakes: Drives to Lake Erie for east winds or Kettle Point for northwest blasts.
Luc chimes in with love for Sandbanks on Lake Ontario, where he's scored overhead swell and phenomenal windsurfing/foiling.
Michael's Journey Through Water Sports
Starting with sailing and windsurfing as a kid, Michael progressed through competitive swimming, laser racing, kiting (big jumps to strapless surfing), and then foiling—which reignited his stoke. He dabbled in windfoil before winging exploded, and now downwinding is his pinnacle.
His philosophy: Choose the "best tool for the conditions" to maximize reward. Whether it's kite for power, wing for freedom, or prone/pump for pure glide, he does it all.
A memorable story: His first committed downwind run on the industrial-lined St. Clair River—no falls allowed, full concentration, screaming in triumph at the end.
Para Winging, Gear Progression, and Community Vibes
Michael breaks down his pair winging progression (using Gnar boards and wings), noting how overpowering is better than under, and how gear is rapidly improving—like early wings that bagged out fast.
Both agree the once-divided communities (kiters vs. windsurfers) are uniting, thanks to athletes like Kai Lenny doing everything. The small Canadian scene is growing, but cold water keeps crowds thin—leaving more waves for the dedicated.
Family, Content, and the Future
With a 9-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter already ripping on e-foils (son standing, daughter on knees), Michael gently introduces them to the water life. He runs casual e-foil lessons locally and dreams of growing the scene.
His YouTube channel (@GreatLakesWaterman) started to promote the lakes' potential and share stunning drone footage—proving you don't need oceans for world-class sessions.
They geek out on drones (Mini 4 Pro holds up in wind), e-foiling's accessibility (scratches the itch on flat days), and the exploding Surf Foil Tour (SFT), with hopes for a Canadian event.
Final Thoughts
Michael's message: "Try it all—it keeps it fresh." More tools mean more sessions on the water.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone underestimating the Great Lakes. As Michael and Luc wrap up planning a future session together, it's clear: Canada's freshwater playgrounds are primed for more foilers.
Check out the full episode here: https://foillifepodcast.com/episode/episode-120-michael-pisarczyk-great-lakes-waterman
Follow Michael Pisarczyk → @great.lakes.waterman (YouTube/Instagram) | https://www.greatlakeswaterman.com
Get out there and foil— the lakes are waiting!