Ok - here's the straight scoop- if your wife is going to just ride the ditch you should start on the end that the wind is blowing AT. For example, if the wind is blowing from the east, start at the West End of the canal. Park on either side near the RR Bridge. If it is windy (and it will be) the cape side of the canal is the least windy. If the wind is blowing from the west start at the Scusset end. Both ends have plenty of pahking.
The reason being - the wind on the canal can stop a biker in his or her tracks and take the enjoyment out of the ride. If you ride into the wind you can easily coast the ride on the return trip.
If you are fishing, it doesn't make much difference. You will be stopping to fish and it gives you a rest with the expectation of a big fish. AM low is on the Scusset or east end - low is at 9:57. Be ther before low. Also what flap said!
