Minnesota DNR: Prioritize safety as recreational boating season kicks off

The long Memorial Day weekend marks the traditional start of Minnesota’s boating season, which means the state’s lakes and rivers see increased traffic.

While the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reports that recent years have seen declines in boat-related fatalities (nine in both 2023 and 2024, and seven in 2025), 2026 has already had its first fatalities. It’s a reminder that things on the water can turn tragic quickly so safety should be the top priority.

“Our lakes and rivers are second to none and it’s great that for so many people, summer means spending time on the water,” said Capt. Adam Block, DNR boating law administrator. “Our goal is for every boater who leaves the shoreline to make it home safely.”

The following are safety tips for all boaters to ensure a fun, memorable and successful boating season:

• Wear a life jacket, don’t just bring it. The law requires children under 10 to wear a life jacket when the boat is underway, but wearing one is the best way for people of all ages to survive an accidental fall into the water, which remains cold. Even strong swimmers can become incapacitated quickly.
• Leave alcohol on shore. Operating a boat under the influence is illegal and the single greatest factor in fatal boating accidents.
• Check safety equipment. Ensure life jackets are in good condition and fit the wearer. On motorboats, ensure carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, navigation lights, and sound-producing devices are in good condition. Wear the engine cut-off lanyard anytime the boat is underway.

• Own your wake. Large wakes can be hazardous to other people recreating on the water and negatively affect the shoreline and shallow areas.
• Take a boater education course. New requirements that went into effect in 2025 mean many boaters must complete the course. As of July 1, 2026, anyone born after June 30, 2000, must obtain their certification. See the DNR website for more information (mndnr.gov/safety/boatwater/boater-education-law.html). Through May 22, anyone who signs up to take the online Boater’s Safety Exam will receive 20% off the cost by using the code MNSAFEBOAT26.