Date: 9/08/10
Contact: Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127 x 3500

FALL OFFERS GOOD WATER & FEWER BOATERS

Now that the long Labor Day weekend is over, so too is the heavy boat traffic associated with the summer boating season. As most boaters turn their attention from summer fun to the daily grind of work and school they tend to remain closer to home rather than travel to distant boating venues such as Lake Mead or Lake Mohave. That means the best water of the year is left wide open for the enjoyment of local boaters and anglers.

In addition to having fewer boats to contend with, boaters also enjoy calmer water conditions because the winds that buffet boaters almost daily throughout the summer give way to the calmer days of fall. That, in turn, results in calmer water conditions than those seen in the summer as well as cooler temperatures.

“Everything mellows out in the fall. People using the lake are more laid back because the crowds at the launch ramp are gone and water conditions can be excellent. Some of the best water of the year for pleasure boating and water skiing can be found at Lakes Mead and Mohave from the beginning of September clear into November,” said Nick Duhe, boater education coordinator for NDOW.

It’s not uncommon to see water skiers plying their trade well into November and sometimes December, Duhe explained. Of course, there does come a point when daytime and water temperatures are cold enough that skiers wear protective gear such as a wetsuit.

Pleasure boaters can take advantage of glassy conditions and venture into areas of the lake they might not visit when conditions are rough. Duhe recommends that anyone looking to take advantage of Nevada’s fall boating season should file a trip plan before they leave home as well as take along some extra clothing, water and food stores. These items will help boaters or anglers survive should the weather suddenly change or the unexpected happen.

“A trip plan should include details such as where you are going, when you are going and expect to return, who you are going with and what you are driving. Including a map is a good idea, and all this should be given to a responsible adult. But keep in mind that not all adults are responsible, so choose wisely,” Duhe said.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a Federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.