Rental Boat Safety Basics
We want to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time out on the water. The following videos highlight some basic boating safety information that all boaters and passengers should be aware of. These videos are provided as a courtesy by a partnership funded by the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The total run time is less than 20 minutes, a small investment to learn or refresh basic boating safety! We will also go over additional boat specific and local information during your pick up briefing.
The below videos are also available on YouTube.
Additional Tips
1. Grab the Right Gear
- Life jackets for everyone (kids under 13 wear them 100% of the time—no ifs, ands, or buts!)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, the sun sneaks up fast.
- Bring an extra layer; river breezes can drop temps 10°F in a heartbeat.
2. Choose a Sober Skipper
At least one responsible adult stays sober to helm the boat. Think of it as DD = Designated Driver & Dock‑er.
3. Know Your Zone
We keep it easy: stay on the Tahquamenon River. No boats go out into Lake Superior without written permission.
Open Lake Superior looks tempting, but it can also be cold, rough, and a long way.
4. Ease Into the Throttle
- River rule: Idle speed within 100 ft of shore, docks, anglers, or paddlers.
- Trim up in shallow spots—props and stumps are a bad mix.
5. Watch the Weather
Storm cells roll in quick off Superior. Check the hourly forecast, scan the sky, and head for home when thunder rumbles.
6. Buddy System for Swimmers
Cut the engine well before anyone hops in, keep a lookout in the awareness zone, and frequent headcounts!
7. Mind the Wildlife
Loons, eagles, and otters share the river. Slow down and give space!!
8. Leave No Trace
Pack it in, pack it out. Even fishing line and orange peels harm critters.
9. Know the “Mayday” Plan
Phone signal is solid near Paradise; dead zones pop up upriver. In trouble?
- Call 911 (they ping Coast Guard & DNR)
- Then ring Sonny’s (906) 322-9746
10. Have Fun & Pass It On
Safe boating isn’t buzz‑kill—it’s the secret sauce for an epic day on the water. Share these tips with your group and the video playlist. Let’s make memories on our beautiful river, not headlines!
Also review our rental policies for more details.
