What better way to enjoy the warmer temperatures than cruising one of Minocqua’s picturesque lakes, feeling the wind in your hair, and enjoying the sun on your face.
Boating is a hallmark water activity of summertime in Minocqua and is something everyone in the family can enjoy. However, care should be taken to ensure all aboard know the rules, respect the water and stay safe!
Follow these 4 tips to make certain you have a safe and exciting summertime season with us here at Nitschke's Northern Resort.
Ensure there are enough lifejackets on board for everyone
Not only is this tip a legal requirement, but it's also a golden rule in terms of personal safety. Anyone who has enjoyed "lake living" probably has the 'life jackets for all' concept so drilled into them, that it has become second nature. But for those once or twice-a-year boaters, it's easy to forget!
So, here's your reminder! Always double check that there are properly fitting life jackets aboard for all passengers before every excursion you take. Accidents happen all the time and it doesn’t matter how good of a swimmer you are.
Leg cramps, deep waters, raging currents, cold temperatures, alcohol use and fatigue can all prevent you from swimming at your best, or even normally! Protect yourself and all other passengers on board by ensuring there are enough lifejackets before you set sail!
Abstain from alcohol
Just like you would never drink and drive in the car, you should never drink and drive (or ride) on a boat. Alcohol impairs your judgment and numbs your reflexes. Should you find yourself in danger out on the water, you want to make sure you are thinking clearly. Save the Pina Coladas and margaritas for the dock once you reach shore again safely. Doing otherwise is not only dangerous, but very illegal!
Abide No Wake Zones
No wake zones are put in place to ensure the safety of everyone out on the water. They are usually found around docks, beaches, passageways (such as our Kawaguesaga channel), and other crowded boating areas. Reducing the speed of your boat to the slowest speed you can while steering helps protect not only your boat but everyone around you.
It prevents damage to docked boats, reduces the risk of a speed-created current (think... young children swimming), and is common courtesy to the local fishermen (see below). Plus, if caught speeding through a no wake zone, the DNR won't be handing over a warning.
Lake Minocqua Boating Ordinances
Before taking the boat out on any lake, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local boating ordinances. They are in place to not only protect your safety, but also to protect the safety of the wildlife and to maintain the integrity of the lake.
1) No boat should be left docked for more than three hours at public piers.
2) No littering.
For a full list of boating regulations, click here.
Now that we've got that out of the way, let's talk fun stuff!
When practicing safe boating, whipping on the water can be the most fun thing you do on your Northwoods vacation at Nitschke's Northern Resort.
Come for the comfortable accommodations, stay for the lake life! It you're ready to hit the water by boat this summer, call the Resort today to discuss availability. Come enjoy all the fun that Lake Minocqua has to offer with us.