Glad your trip went well.
I didn't know that in Canada you are allowed to camp anywhere. I thought it was all fire grate = camp. Huh.
It seems that would leave the Canadian shores spotted with former campfire scars.
I have a real respect for the limitations of paddling in a very strong wind. Having to move across big lakes in even moderate winds is tough enough. In those conditions I suppose its best to stay near shores. If swamped that gives you a chance to swim to shore.
I once got swamped by barge traffic waves in the Mississippi River. We were smart enough to stay near the shore until making our move across to the other side - quickly.