Info for Newcomers to Lake Winnipesaukee

[escaped from NJ]

Would really appreciate any advice on what we need to learn/know as we have just purchased a boat and cottage on Little Bear Island and having a cottage and boating are new to us. What are the watch outs? Right now I am so excited that all I can "see" is the beautiful lake and view.

[GTO]

My best advice: Buy a $32,000 boat......invest in a $15 map

[jrc]

Have fun.

Assuming you've got your boating safety certificate and a map, go out and explore a little. It's a pretty easy run to Wolfeboro from Little Bear. Get there early on a weekend day or anytime on weekdays and you can easily get a free public dock.

BTW there is a grocery store across the street from the docks. You used to be able to fill your cart in the store and then roll it down to your boat.

[Outlaw]

If you're 'really' new to boating, do the best thing for yourself and your family, learn to boat with confidence and a thorough understanding of the rules and regs and contact, contact Captain JP. You can even go for a cruise on the lake in your boat with the Captain. The web site is:
http://www.jpboating.com/

You'll be very happy that you did.

[ghfromaltonbay]

Would really appreciate any advice on what we need to learn/know as we have just purchased a boat and cottage on Little Bear Island and having a cottage and boating are new to us. What are the watch outs? Right now I am so excited that all I can "see" is the beautiful lake and view.

I agree with Outlaw. A hands on boating course with an experienced captain is the way to go. The map of the lake of course is also a must. Perhaps some of the island residents on the forum can fill you in on island living once you arrive their safely.

Enjoy!!

gh@altonbay
Another NJ escapee

[jkjoshuatree]

A ton of us here on the forum have island homes and I'm sure we'd all be happy to answer any questions you have. And you may have dozens once you get in and settled. Feel free to ask any and everything. The people on this site are a great bunch-extremely helpful. So ask away! You will never be disappointed. In fact, sometimes you'll get so much information on any given subject that you won't have time to read it all.

Good luck with the new place!!

[Woodsy]

If you are new to Winni.... the first thing you need to do is take a course on safe boating. The rules here aren't like the rest of the country. The navigation of the lake can be somewhat tricky in spots. You definitely want to get a map, I like Bizer's but thats just me. I would also recomend a GPS system, something that takes the C-map chip of Winni! The best part of the year is coming, after labor day when the crowds thin out! The autumn on the lake is breathtaking!

WELCOME TO THE LAKE!!

Woodsy

[Island Girl]

Island living is the best. Make sure you inventory your camp and stock up on things to make small repairs.


Roof goop for leaks
plumbing supplies such as spare pvc and the purple and brown stuff to clean and glue them together
toilet paper, paper towels, plastic bags, napkins, coffee, sugar, salt and pepper, bottled water... all winter over nicely. I always refresh the supply of these in the fall so I don't have to worry about them in the spring.
Hammer, nails, screws, nuts, bolts, rope, twine, stapler and staples, screening, chainsaw, saws, shovels, rakes, water hose repair ends, bungie cords
battery that accepts cigarette lighter connections, battery operated radio, tv (the power goes out and the electric company cannot go out to islands after dark), candles, matches, flashlights, spare batteries of all sizes.
Pliers, socket set, fuses or circuit breakers, fire wood or fuel of choice, did I say matches.
Rain gear (hooded jacket and pants) for the boat when it is raining and for retying the boat in a storm because you did not do a good enough job the first time.
binoculars... for watching the boats go by.. need at least two pair, sharing is not fun.
What ever tools you have at home... it is good to have another one at the lake.. hauling these back and forth gets old real fast.
Paint brushes, magazines, books, games
Large tray for bringing food outside
That is all I can think of for now.. Happy Islanding

[Lakewinniboater]

What a list!!!! Very thorough...... I would bet that no other lake would have given this new comer that type of needed info.

I also remember someone posting about how to store food and what not while you were gone for the weekend. It was quite interesting. Anyone remember it?

[JTA]

Island living is different. Since you are embarking on that life style, you must know that there will be inconveniences and problems. There is also (in my opinion) an unwritten "rule" that islanders are always willing to help each other out and often become fast friends. Get to know your neighbors and don't be embarrassed to ask for help. Also, learn to judge 150 feet on the water so that you can safely obey the laws. I've observed people passing at full speed within 50 feet at full speed, happily waving at me, without a clue that they are violating the boating laws and creating a potentially dangerous situation. This happened just yesterday as I was sailing my sunfish. Welcome and enjoy!

[SAMIAM]

Island girl...you forgot the Corona and lime....

[upthesaukee]

And the chaisse lounge with a cup holder in each arm...so you don't have to get up as often. :D

[Newbiesaukee]

As a relative newcomer, I can attest to the fact that the Forum is absolutely the best place to get information. If you live on the west side of Little Bear you can wave to me as I am just north of Harilla's. As far as boating, I have handled small outboards most of my life, but the boating here is different. As has been said, you really need a chart. We venture out on small exploring trips early during the week and are familiar with some of the Lake, but caution is essential. For example, there are two red markers in front of my house...they should be black but that is another story. Knowing I was new to the area, my neighbor pointed out that close to one of the markers, about 200 feet from shore, the water is abruptly as shallow as 1 foot. The most dangerous critter on the lake can be the other boater and it is safest to always assume he ( or she) will do the wrong thing. As far as island living, even though I also live on an island, we have a bridge,which is cheating, so you will need to ask the real islanders for information. Finally, Cow Island has a forum which is intimate and sporadic, but as they are your neighbors, you might take a look at it.

[mcdude]

CLICK HERE (http://www.quicktopic.com/18/H/2DcQnXwaD2qL/p-1.-1) for the link.....

Welcome to the Lake!!! :)

[GWC...]

Don't run over Mike as he attempts to swim the Lake tonight. ;)

http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2298

[camp guy]

There have been many great suggestions for you to consider, but allow me to pass on to you a suggestion my dad gave to me when I started boating on the Lake (more than 50 years ago): When learning to boat, learn at slow speeds, and have someone with you, and do it during daylight. If you are going to have an accident, the slowest speed possible, with help, and in the daylight will make things better. Also, learn to tie efficient knots, and carry plenty to lines of good length. Welcome to Winnipesaukee and ENJOY yourself.

[GWC...]

Remember, don't run over Mike as he attempts to swim the Lake tonight.

http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2298