Boating Season Has Arrived. Here’s What Stearn’s County Boaters Need To Know.

As temperatures rise and boating season gets underway, Stearns County residents heading out on the water are encouraged to brush up on a few key safety guidelines.

First and foremost, life jackets are essential. All boaters should wear one at all times, and children should never be on the water without one. Before departure, notify a family member or friend of your destination and expected return time. Carrying a cell phone or VHF radio ensures help is reachable if plans change.

Boaters should also keep a close eye on the weather. Conditions on the water can shift quickly, and being caught off guard by a storm poses serious risks. Enrolling in a boating safety course is one way to build awareness of those hazards before heading out.

New rules governing who can operate certain watercraft are also in effect this season. Operators younger than 12 are prohibited from driving high-powered watercraft, including personal watercraft or any motorboat with a motor exceeding 75 horsepower. Those operators may, however, pilot a motorboat with a motor of less than 75 horsepower, provided a qualified adult operator is on board.

All motorized watercraft longer than 10 feet must be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, though several exceptions apply. Watercraft registered in another state or country are exempt, as are those not kept in Minnesota for 90 consecutive days. Boats used during waterfowl hunting season and those owned by the U.S. government or other specified governing bodies are also exempt from the requirement.

Boat owners can register their watercraft in person at any deputy registrar of motor vehicles or online through the Minnesota DNR here. A full list of safety rules and regulations can also be found here.

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