Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will improve the boat dock at Lake Minatare State Recreation Area by removing an exposed concrete anchor and replacing it with a submerged one farther from the ramp. The project is tentatively scheduled for June 17-18, during which the ramp will remain accessible but no dock will be available.
Skeeter Boats unveiled its new FXE bass boat model line at the 32nd annual Skeeter Owners Bass Tournament on Lake Fork, Texas, where 1,650 anglers competed for over $275,000 in prizes. The FXE features Yamaha V MAX SHO 250-horsepower outboards and advanced engineering for enhanced performance and precision on the water.
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department announces a navigation channel shift to the east side of the BNSF railroad bridge project on the Missouri River near Bismarck-Mandan, occurring before June 13. The idle speed zone is marked with buoys, and unauthorized entry into the safety zone is subject to fines.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will remove sand at Diver's Bay and Martin Bay Low-Water boat ramps at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area from June 30 to July 2 to maintain boating access during low water conditions.
Yamaha Marine features Alaska Surf Guides and Captain Scott Reierson in a new storytelling platform piece showcasing remote surfing expeditions along Alaska's coastline powered by Yamaha outboards. The cinematic feature highlights Reierson's unique adventure experiences blending surfing, boating, and exploration in Alaska's wilderness.
Michigan DNR Conservation Officers Chris Kravitsky and Mark Siemen rescued two Ohio visitors from Lake Huron after their kayaks capsized approximately 1 mile offshore. The couple, who were not wearing life jackets, had been pushed farther from shore by increasing offshore winds. The incident highlights the importance of wearing Coast Guard-approved life jackets and understanding cold water dangers on the Great Lakes.
Skeeter Boats introduced the new FXE bass boat model line featuring advanced hull design, Yamaha V MAX SHO 250-horsepower outboards, and precision manufacturing technology. The models deliver improved acceleration, handling, and performance across various water conditions, with availability through authorized Skeeter dealerships in late June 2026.
Michigan DNR Conservation Officers Brian Lasanen and Cody Smith rescued a family of five from L'Anse whose 31-foot sailboat became stuck on rocks in Keweenaw Bay. The family was safely transported back to Baraga County Marina with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard.
An emergency closure on the Gallatin River near Big Sky has been lifted following a U.S. Forest Service project to replace Markley Bridge. The closure had restricted boating from Upper Deer Creek boat launch to Portal Creek boat launch, though future project phases may require temporary reinstatement.
Nebraska boaters face low-water conditions this summer, with 79% of the state experiencing severe drought. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has closed several boat ramps, with current conditions available on the Public Access Boating map at OutdoorNebraska.gov.
Indiana Conservation Officers, led by Capt. Jet Quillen, urge Hoosiers to prioritize water safety this summer. Key recommendations include wearing Coast Guard-approved life jackets, designating sober boat operators, and avoiding alcohol near water to prevent accidents and injuries.
Recreational boaters in Michigan's Great Lakes should avoid areas marked by orange flags and buoys indicating commercial fishing nets below the surface. Nets can cover over an acre and cause significant damage if snagged by boats. The DNR provides guidance on avoiding nets and procedures for reporting entanglements via the hotline at 800-292-7800.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission reminds boaters to prepare properly before launching and practice patience at boat ramps as summer season approaches. Jeremy Risley, AGFC's Black Bass Program coordinator, emphasizes having safety gear ready and maintaining courteous interactions to ensure safe experiences for all water users.
The U.S. Forest Service lifted a boating closure on the Gallatin River near Big Sky that had restricted access from Upper Deer Creek boat launch to Portal Creek boat launch. A temporary emergency closure will be reinstated when the new Markley Bridge is ready for installation.
Wildlife Forever and Discover Mediaworks are promoting Safe-Boating.com during National Safe Boating Week to encourage boaters to prioritize safety and conservation. The free online clearinghouse, developed through the Getting Families Fishing & Boating program with the U.S. Coast Guard, provides boating safety certification, educational videos, and resources on life jacket use, navigation safety, and invasive species prevention.
Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area will host an informational open house June 6 at the Crofton Haymarket to discuss the Weigand Marina expansion. Park superintendent Jonathan Voelker invites slip holders and the public to learn about the project's operations, logistics, and design.
National Safe Boating Week (May 16-22) reminds Nebraskans that safety is essential on the water. Key tips include wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, knowing state boating laws, taking a boating safety course, and avoiding boating under the influence.
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department recognizes National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22, emphasizing life jacket requirements and water safety regulations. Coast Guard statistics show 87% of recreational boating fatalities involved drowning victims not wearing life jackets.
Emergency motorized watercraft restrictions on the Indian Lake Chain, including Witmer, Westler, Dallas, Hackenburg, and Missick lakes, have been rescinded as water levels lowered. Normal boating operations may resume.
The emergency order restricting motorized watercraft operation above idle speed on Lake Wawasee has been rescinded as water levels have lowered. Normal boating operations may resume on the lake.