What Are Those Silly Wakeboard Boats Doing?

FACTS FRIDAY - SEPTEMBER 2023

Did you know that Wakesurfing boats have different needs on the water than ski/tube/wakeboarding boats? Here is a little synopsis of why we might be seeing some of our wakesurfing residents driving a little differently than other water crafts. It is important that all boaters are aware and knowledgeable of the characteristics of all crafts and sports on the lake, so that we can continue to safely and happily share the lake.

Wakesurf boats create a wave that allows riders to surf behind the boat on a surfboard. Using a rope to stand up on the board upon takeoff, the wave allows an experienced surfer to toss the rope back onto the boat and enjoy the wave without it. Waves are created with a variety of tab and plate systems, but most importantly require additional weight and lake depth. They sit low in the water in order to form and keep the wave, so on lakes such as Oxbow, this means the boat is required to stick to the deeper (and stump-free!) parts of the lake. This is why you may see a Wakesurf boat following an imperfect path around the lake. Wakesurfing requires 10-15ft of water depth and is why you see many boats favoring the center of the lake. Even considering this depth requirement, all boats are expected to make every effort to follow a counter-clockwise path around Oxbow Lake.

Unlike other water sports, Wakesurf boats are slow; the sport is done at 10-11mph. They can often slow down, turn, or stop unexpectedly due to a rider falling since the rider often is using the wave power to stay behind the boat. This is the same concept as other boats pulling tubers, skiiers, and wake boarders. It is the responsibility of every driver on the lake to anticipate and avoid the area upon this event, avoiding collision and maintaining distance.

All watercrafts are required to follow boater safety and lake rules. The DNR mandates the vessel or persons being towed must not be within 100ft of anchored vessels, docks/rafts, or a person in the water. It is important for all of us to anticipate irregular movements of other crafts, especially when towing a person participating in a sport. Refer to the Handbook of Michigan Boating Laws and Responsibilities if you have any additional questions pertaining to these rules.

Have any questions about this sport or comments to share? Type your response below!