St Clair river and Lk St Clair they really wouldn't be a problem per say as you are usually fairly close to shorelines and can retreat rapidly in case of sudden storms. Out in Lk Huron, it leaves you quite vulnerable, especially if you fish far offshore. Many a time I have been hit with pop up storms when out 10+ miles and it is a long, wet, and rugged ride back in. With a cabin my crew can at least go inside and stay dry along with a lot of gear that I normally would have to keep bagged up or up under the bow. As you are familiar with our weather early spring and late fall can produce some real chill on the water and a place to get out of the weather even for 15 minutes can extend your time on the water. I did own a Mariner in the 80's and it certainly was a great fishing boat with a lot of room but on rough days you would still get a bath from the bow spray. I soon sold it and bought an Islander for the reasons above.
I can only assume you mainly fish for walleye???? and spend time jigging as well as some trolling. Yes an open boat would probably be more beneficial to you especially if you vertical jig by the Blue Water Bridge and would want to utilize a trolling motor. Myself, I am a very avid and die hard Salmon/Trout troller, drop the lines and troll the day away. And hey, I do get over to Pt Huron in the spring and fall and get a few of these in the St Clair river from the mouth of the black to the bridge. Maybe we will see ya out there.
