Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes in North America, is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is essential to understand the rules and regulations governing boating activities on the lake.
Registration and Permits
All watercraft, unless exempt, must be registered with the Michigan Department of State and display a registration decal. Registrations expire on March 31 in each year. Additionally, a Recreation Passport and a Lake Michigan Seasonal and Commercial Boat Launch Permit are required to access state-managed public boat launches on the lake. For any commercial activities on Lake Michigan within the state of Michigan, a Commercial Use Permit for Vessels is mandatory.
Safety Equipment and Operations
Safety is of utmost importance when boating on Lake Michigan. Children below the age of 13 must consistently wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on board a vessel. Boats are required to have fire extinguishers, especially those with enclosed compartments or live wells. Navigation lights, including red port or left-facing and green starboard or right-facing bow lights, must be visible for 360 degrees around the boat. Boats are also required to have both day and night signaling devices, such as flares, with three current, non-expired devices on board.
The maximum speed limit on Lake Michigan is 55 mph, unless otherwise regulated. Slow – no wake speed is required within 100 feet of the shoreline, moored and anchored watercraft, pier, person, raft, swimming area, and swimmers. When towing persons on water skis, tubes, or other devices, at least one competent person, in addition to the driver, must be present in the boat.
Operator Requirements
Individuals born after July 1, 1996, must successfully complete a state-approved boater safety course to operate a motorized vessel in Michigan. Charter boat operators are obligated to hold a valid USCG Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with the appropriate endorsement corresponding to the type of vessel they are piloting. Additionally, charter or livery boat operators are required to undergo a physical examination, drug test, and complete a DNR-approved training course.
Additional Regulations
Operating a vessel within 150 feet of a person in the water is strictly prohibited. Anyone engaging in fishing from a boat must possess a valid Michigan fishing license. Charter or livery boat operators must keep a logbook documenting all their trips.
These rules and regulations are in place to ensure the safety of all boaters and to protect the environment of Lake Michigan. It is essential for lakes touring enthusiasts to familiarize themselves with these requirements before embarking on their adventures on the lake.
Reference:
– Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Boating Regulations
– Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources – Boating Regulations
– U.S. Coast Guard – Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)