7 must-do’s before heading out on Utah’s waterways this summer

Summer means boating season is officially here! Before hitching up your boat or Jet Ski, make sure you’re in compliance with Utah’s latest watercraft and recreation laws. KSL Classifieds has your checklist of to-do’s before hitting the water.

Take your canoe to Lake Powell, after you complete the quagga mussel awareness course.

1. Take the quagga mussel awareness course

More than a decade ago, the invasive quagga mussel became a serious problem for Lake Powell. The pint-sized mollusk removes plankton, which fish rely on, and plugs up water lines; officials are concerned they may eventually get into water delivery systems. In 2023, state legislators enacted laws to prevent the spread to other bodies of water. Today, if you want to put a vessel — boats, Jet Skis, canoes — on any Utah waterway, you’ll need to take an online mussel awareness course. Proof of completion must be carried in your launch vehicle, or you may download it to your Utah Division of Wildlife Resources app.

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2. Enroll in Utah AIS program

If you have a motorized watercraft, you must also enroll in the Aquatic Invasive Species program. You’ll use the same identification you used for the quagga mussel awareness course. There is a $20 annual fee for Utah residents, or $25 for non-residents. The decal will be mailed to you, so plan ahead. It must be placed on your vessel before you launch. Note: All boaters are required to stop at open AIS inspection stations.

Try human-powered boating.

3. Register your boat

Sailboats and all watercraft with a motor must have a current registration decal to legally operate on Utah’s water bodies. Registration must be completed annually with the Division of Motor Vehicles. Find your local DMV office here. To register, complete the application form and pay the fee. Decals should be placed on both sides of the boat, 3 inches aft of the bow number. All watercraft with a motor of 25 horsepower or greater must also have a title. Non-motorized personal vessels — canoes, kayaks and paddleboards — do not need to be registered, but they are still subject to Utah’s boating laws.

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4. Renew your insurance

You’ll need proof of insurance when you operate your personal watercraft or motor boat on Utah’s waterways. Be sure to carry a copy of your insurance card or policy with you on the craft. Your liability insurance must include a minimum of $25,000/$50,000 for bodily injury/death; $15,000 for property damage; or $65,000 combined. Boats with less than 50 horsepower are exempt.

Stock up on water toys to keep everyone entertained on the lake.

5. Upgrade your water day

Riding in a boat or on a personal watercraft is nice, but there’s always more fun to be had. Add wakeboards and kneeboards to your fleet. Mama needs a new pair of water skis! Maybe some of your crew prefers taking it a little slower, or just don’t want to get their hair wet. Try a paddle board for some Zen time on the water.

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6. Stock up for safety

State law requires one life vest per person on a boat; children under age 13 are required to wear one at all times. If your vests are looking a little worse for wear, or the kids have outgrown them, invest in some new ones before heading out. You should also carry a fire extinguisher and a throwable flotation device. If your passengers will be out of the boat while you’re on the water — putting on water skis, for instance — you’ll need a skier/diver down flag to make other drivers aware. It’s a good idea to have a waterproof first aid kit on hand, as well.

If you're over age 12, you'll need a license to fish at Lake Powell, or any of Utah's other waterways.

7. Get your fishing license

Whether you’re out on the water or staying ashore, you’ll need a fishing license if you’ll be throwing out some line this year. State law requires a license for anyone over age 12. If you only fish on your annual camping trip, opt for the three or seven day license. If you’re an avid fisherman, you can purchase a pass for up to five years. And if you’re that serious, you might as well get a fishing boat or raft to go with it. Download the free DWR Hunting & Fishing app to store your license. 

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Find all the water sports equipment you need for your summer on the water on KSL Classifieds.