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   A common topic that we often get asked during the summer months are questions and concerns related to Wake. This year, due to high water on some area lakes, wake is a continued concern and popular topic.  Almost every motorboat can create a wake, which is why boaters must be aware of the danger wakes present and the damage they can do. While courtesy dictates boaters should control their wakes, there are consequences beyond how wakes may affect people. 

   Under Minnesota law, the damage your wake causes are treated the same as damage caused by an actual collision. Personal watercrafts (PWC) must stay at least 150 feet from shore. There is no required distance for boats, but by staying at least 200 feet from shore or other structures boaters can reduce the likelihood their wakes will cause damage to shorelines, docks, lifts and other private property. 

   We have received several complaints and questions on a topic that is popular statewide on lakes of all sizes and it involves wake boats. We have seen an increase in activity with these boats on several area lakes, both large and small, and have had numerous complaints and questions on legal operating considerations involving them. There are currently no operating restrictions or laws on operating or waterway travel with these boats. Unlike a personal watercraft that must stay a distance of 150 feet from shoreline, these boats can travel on the water with no restrictions.

   The Minnesota DNR has created a campaign focused on dealing with these issues and creating public awareness. As the popularity of wake boarding and wake surfing increases, statewide sales of wake boats have increased dramatically. With their heightened popularity, concerns about damage to docks, lifts and moored boats, as well as the potential for shoreline damage and erosion, also increases. 

  •  Be aware of your environment and what’s going on around you. This applies to all types of boats, including paddlers, and those on and around the water.

  •  Stay at least 200 feet away from shorelines, docks and other structures. Backing a boat up to a riverbank or lakeshore can damage the area and lead to erosion. Travel slowly in shallow waters.

  •  Minimize repetitive passes. Once you’ve run a line, move on to another area. Comply with all signs and respect barriers.

  • Respect the rights of others so everyone can enjoy their time on the water - keep the noise down, be courteous to other boaters and show consideration to all recreationists on and around the water.

   Basic boating etiquette is about safe behavior, as well as what’s socially accepted. The MN DNR has given us 10 simple tips on being respectful while on the water. Please share these tips and information with your kids, grandkids, weekend guests or anyone else who may be enjoying our waterways this season.

  •  Respect the ramp. Good boating etiquette starts before you enter the water - at the dock. Prepare your boat and equipment before getting into position to launch. Anything else is disrespectful to fellow boaters. Follow the instruction of the AIS Inspector and other officials. 

  •  Own your wake. The fastest way to make the wrong kinds of waves is to literally throw a big, obtrusive wave at another boat, swimmer, angler or shoreline owner. This is much more than being a nuisance or disrupting others’ experience on the water.

  •  Keep the tunes in check. Sound is amplified over the water, so keep the music at a decent level. Not only is it a disturbance to others but the operator may not hear the spotter.

  •  Pack in. Pack out.  Take care of the body of water you love and dispose of any trash you have. Do not throw it overboard!

  •  Slow your roll. Does the body of water you’re on have a speed limit or slow-no-wake restriction? It’s your responsibility to know it and respect it. You are responsible for any damage you cause to other people’s property.

  •  Rules of the road. Become familiar with waterway markers and navigation rules, which dictate how you operate your vessel in order to prevent collision.

  •  Be prepared. If you are the captain, you need to be prepared with the safety rules for your craft and make your guests aware as well. Know state and local laws for the body of water you’re on. Always wear a life jacket and have enough life jackets for each person onboard. Beyond that, make sure to have the appropriate fit. 

  •  Fuel and go. At the fuel dock, get fuel, pay your bill and move out of the way. If you need to buy additional supplies, relocate your boat. Don’t forget to run your blower before starting.

  •  Anchoring and mooring. Enter an anchorage or mooring area at a slow speed. Don’t create a wake that will disrupt other anchored boats. The first boat sets the tone. The busier the boat, the more space you should give yourself.

  •  Be polite – give a wave. When passing another boat, give a little wave hello. Boating is all about having fun and being part of the boating community. Embrace it, enjoy it, and share it for generations to come. 

   If you have specific questions that you would like answered in this column or in person, please feel free to contact me anytime using one of the following methods:

Email: 

[email protected]

Phone: 

218-547-1424 | 1-800-450-2677

By Mail/In Person:

Cass County Sheriff’s Office

303 Minnesota Ave W

PO Box 1119

 Walker MN 56484

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