My Opinion - Speed Is Not Really The Issue
I hesitate greatly hopping into any thread on the HB 162, but being on The Broads I have been witness to a great number of things. Believe it or not, there are a great number of kayaks out and about. Take a ride along the shore of our island and you will spot lots of them. Canoes too. These people just chose their time of use wisely, on calm weather days and when there is less boat traffic.
In my opinion, boater education should be the focus here. The 150’ rule is what I see to be the most violated, making the lake unsafe. Marine Patrol has the authority to ticket anyone who is operating unsafely or without control. They do not need a speed limit in place for this. I do not want them to be sidetracked from their safety mission by looking for speeding boats. They are over taxed and over burdened as it is.
If canoeists and kayakers want to feel safer, wear orange vests like the ones runners wear. Or better yet, an orange flag that is on a fiberglass pole. There has been only one time that we were out and did not see the people kayaking. It was on a severely overcast day with a light rain and much fog. The kayaks were between Ship and Moose Islands and the mainland. They were wearing dark clothes and were not visible until we were way too close for comfort. Bright clothing or some safety lights would have been in order. We were using our lights, which meant they saw us before we saw them. I do understand that all kayakers do not act this irresponsible.
This lake is huge and has many locations that are perfect for canoes, rowboats, paddleboats and kayaks that larger powerboats would not care to go. I often go out in a canoe and I cannot tell you how many times the 150’ rule was violated. I suspect that Skipper of the Sea Que is right, these boaters are estimating the 150’ on the short side.
I love this great lake and I am happy to share the lake with all types of boaters. There is plenty of room for all the fun.
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