It's called pleasure boating for a reason. After all, the purpose of recreational boating is to have fun. You may not think of boating rules and regs as having anything to do with fun. But actually, most of the common lake boating rules in force around the country are based on common sense. Just as speed limits, traffic codes and driving rules are meant to ensure safety on land, boating laws are designed to ensure safety and good times for everyone on the water.
Licensed to Drive
Although some states have no requirements for a license to run a boat, many have been moving toward that practice in recent decades. Many requiring licenses "grandfather" in older boaters as safe but require younger boaters born after a certain date to have a license or pass a boating safety course. In addition, many states have minimum age limits for who can run a boat, generally running from 12 to 16 years of age. Be familiar with your own state's rules before you hand the wheel over to a younger person.
Just as on land, alcohol and drugs can cause collisions and fatalities on the water. That's why state and local authorities take a dim view of excessive alcohol intake and drug use. On some lakes, enforcement of driving under the influence is just as rigorous as it is on some highways and roads.
Also just as with land-bound motor vehicles, many states require boaters to carry insurance for their watercraft. Check with state boating authorities and your insurer to see what you need.
All states reqire personal flotation devices, aka PFDs or life vests, be carried in the proper number and sizes to accommodate everyone on your boat. Many states also require children under a certain age to wear a PFD while they are on a boat.
Boats over a certain length must be registered with the state. Many states require boat trailers to be registered too, although some states waive the requirement for trailers under a certain size and others do not require any boat trailer be registered.
If you plan to operate your boat in the dark, you will need to have lights so others can see you and avoid collisions. Requirements vary according to boat length, but powerboats generally need at least a bow light, side marker lights and a stern light.
Taking It Slow
Remember to slow your boat down when you enter a posted no-wake zone. It is also courteous to go slow as you approach a dock, beach or anchorage. Of course, keep well away from swimming beaches at all times. It's smart to have a spotter assist the captain in looking for water hazards, which could include swimmers as well as floating logs and debris, rocks and shoals.
These are just general lake boating rules to get you off to a safe and legal start. Remember that boat regulations and rules can differ on particular lakes, so if you are trying a new one, make sure to bone up on local rules before you go. And whatever lake you take your boat on, remember to have fun.