Exploring the outdoors via watercraft is a way of life for many Oklahomans, and you don’t have to have a large boat with a motor to do it. Kayaks are increasing in popularity and canoes are an old standby. We highly recommend you give it a try. In many cases, you can access ponds, lakes and waterways from Wildlife Department lands. Just remember that people who use Department-owned land for nonhunting or nonfishing activities are required to have either a hunting or fishing license, or a Conservation Passport.
In addition to access opportunities on lakes and waterways all over the state, Oklahomans have another great resource: industry partners who can teach us a thing or two! That’s why ODWC’s very own Lance Meek recently got with the good crew at OKC Kayak for some ever so important discussion on one of the most important pieces of water safety gear: the life vest.
Meek, the hunter education coordinator for the Wildlife Department, knows safe practices can make or break the quality of your outdoor experience.
Keep in mind that when it comes to paddling or boating, safety starts long before you’re standing on the bank about to hop in a vessel.
It’s entirely possible to let loose your adventurous nature while keeping safety a top priority. And in fact gear these days is making it easier and easier to do.
Additionally, weather you hunt from a boat, fish from a kayak or simply enjoy paddling a canoe on an outfitted trip down the Mountain Fork or Illinois River, there’s a few things to remember about water safety:
- Always wear your Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while you are in the boat
- Do not overload your boat.
- Keep the center of gravity low.
- Stay with your vessel if it capsizes.
- Carry dry clothes in a waterproof sack.
- Take a boating safety course.
- Follow boating laws.
- An "Education Short," created with work by senior information & education specialist Lance Meek