Boating

Lake Speed Limits

Speed & "No Wake Area"

There are two speed limits posted on the lake. The Main Lake Ski Area buoys are posted as 35 mph. The rest of the lake, however, is posted as "no-wake" which means boats may travel up to 5 m.p.h. as long as it is not creating a wake. The boat is required to maintain no-wake even if this means they must travel at a lower speed. In the Main Lake, this includes the entire perimeter along with all coves. The entire East Bay is also a no-wake area.

Warning Flags

Boaters are also asked to be aware of the flags used on the lake. There are three flags used; red flags, mean the Main Lake is closed to boat traffic, yellow flags mean the Main Lake is restricted to 5 mph and green flags mean there are no lake restrictions. These flags are posted at Holiday Harbor to the sides of the flagpole, and at the Eastport launch ramp. 

The green flag status often changes during or after heavy rainfall.  This is done to minimize wake damage to backyards and personal property that flood when the lake is over full. 

Boating Etiquette

Inland Rules of the Road

While on the water, it's basic etiquette to follow the Inland Rules of the Road which typically applies to all boats upon the inland waters of the United States. These rules include:

• If another boat is approaching, bear right just as you would on the street.
• If you are coming up on a slower boat in open water, give them plenty of room and slow down. Avoid rocking the other boat and if you are passing a sailboat, avoid blocking their wind.
• Passing slower or idle boats is a part of every boater’s daily ride. Be sure to pass these boaters slowly and to watch your wake.
• Because sound travels easily over water, loud music, loud engines, and yelling are things to be conscious of on the Lake. The Canyon Lake POA does outline noise level limits on the Lake in the Rules & Regulations, Lake & Marina Section 6.11.

Anchoring & Mooring

Many boaters enjoy anchoring and floating together in the coves and in the East Bay. It's important to remember to enter areas where other boats are anchored at a slow speed. Also, as mentioned above sound travels quickly across the water so it’s important to be conscious of the noise you are making and be courteous to the neighboring homes.

Safety Inspection Checklist

In order to obtain a compliance certificate, these safety check list items will be verified at the time of inspection, as applicable.

• Registration Documents (registration papers must be onboard)
• State Numbering (proper spacing, contrasting color, minimum 3” high)
• Sound Producing Device (whistle or horn as a means to attract attention)
• Coast Guard Approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD) (USCG approved for reach passenger, minimum of 2. Boats 16ft and over also need one Type IV throwable)
• Visual Distress Signal (red or orange flag to attract attention when in distress)
• Alternate Propulsion (trolling motor, paddle, etc.)
• Fenders (adequate to protect other boats & association property)
• Navigation Lights (must operation and show proper configuration for night use)
• Coast Guard Approved Fire Extinguisher (one USCG approved B-1 extinguisher readily available)
• Backfire Flame Arrester (for carbureted inboard motors, approved type in serviceable condition)
• Fuel System (tanks secure, ventilation, hoses in good condition)
• Electrical System (batteries secure, terminals clean and covered, system organized)
• Engine Sound Level (boats with above water or exposed exhaust must be within state motor noise limits)
• Overall Vessel Condition (vessel clean, well maintained, no oil in bilge)
• Boater Safety Card
• Boat Safety Exam