As spring turns to summer across the entire U.S. and Canadian boating landscape, boat owners are all-in for the traditional pursuits of cruising, fishing, sailing, skiing/tubing, paddling, etc. on nearby and travel-related rivers, lakes and offshore. The resources for getting the best ROI on the boating investment, whether it’s from ownership, time-sharing, clubbing, chartering, or rentals are abundant on the internet, from organizations both public and private.
Two robust websites that cover the waterfront are Discover Boating (www.discoverboating.com) and Take Me Fishing (www.TakeMeFishing.org). The first offers extensive boating information, stories of families and individuals who share their experience on-water, and links to resources including instruction, a guide to choosing, owning and operating boats, reviews of popular boating destinations and more. The fishing focused website helps anglers and boaters of all ages and experience levels learn, plan and equip for a successful day on the water featuring how-to videos, state fishing license and boat registration information and links, and an interactive map that allows visitors to find local fishing and boating spots and launching sites.
For any boating outing, it’s best to have a plan and an understanding of how to insure fun and safe outcomes. The U.S. Coast Guard (www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/index.php?m=rb) is the nation’s go-to source of information of recommended boating practices and statistics which highlight preparation for pleasant experiences, such as life jacket wear. To help draw public attention to the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol and drugs, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators campaigns each summer in partnership with the Coast Guard on “Operation Dry Water” (at www.operationdrywater.org/boaters).