Wake surfing offers thrills, but potentially at a high cost

Wake surfing is a popular sport offering thrills and excitement for those involved, making one feel that for a fleeting moment, they are on top of the world. But, it’s not all fun and games -- boaters creating the wake should always be aware of potential hazards they may make and understand that they are responsible for damage that they cause.

The Boat Owners Association of the United States, or Boat U.S., notes that whether boaters are operating in a no wake zone or not, they are responsible for any injury or damage caused by their wake.

“Common courtesy toward other boaters demands that we control our wakes,” noted an article published on the association’s website. “However, the consequences of failing to do so go far beyond rude gestures and horn blasts. Because here’s one thing you really have to know about wakes: under the law, damage caused by your wake is treated exactly the same way as damage caused by a physical, fiberglass-crunching collision.”

Courts have applied rules of the General Maritime Law to hold boat operators responsible for damage caused by their wakes, the article states. In instances where damage is caused by a wake, the injured parties can bring civil charges, and prosecutors can file criminal charges. It’s important for boat operators to watch and control their wake to make sure no one is harmed.

Although any boat can create a wake – or a wave created by the passage of the vessel – wake surfing craft are specially designed to create especially large waves. To maximize the wake created by these boats, a built in ballast system is utilized, along with extra weight provided by ballast bags (also known as bladders).

In some areas of the state, wake surfing is prohibited. Those who want to participate in this sport should contact lake offices or local law enforcement to determine what is allowed.

Wake surfing is allowed on BRA reservoirs and has become a popular sport.

“Wake surfing has gotten very popular on Lake Granbury,” said Lake Ranger Kyle Lewis. “There has been a steady increase in people involved doing it in the last few years.”

Lake Ranger Sergeant Robert Box said wake surfing popularity has also surged at Possum Kingdom Lake.

“More people are surfing than skiing,” Box said. “It’s been increasing every year.”

Rangers at Lake Limestone note that wake surfing is not often seen at their location.

What are the biggest concerns related to the sport?

Box said there are several factors involved that create potential hazards.

“The wake size, the amount of boats participating, distance from other boats, docks and shoreline – too close,” are all concerns Box pointed out.

“The biggest danger is being pulled under the propeller of the boat,” Lewis said. “You are operating so close to the most dangerous and unforgiving part of a boat. One miscalculation of the operator or the surfer can lead to serious bodily injury or even death.”

What are the best ways for people to stay safe?

“Everyone should always wear a lifejacket, especially the surfer,” Lewis said. “Passengers often like to sit on the very rear deck of the boat to watch. That puts them in danger of falling overboard and coming into contact with a moving prop. State law requires boat operators to keep passengers seated completely inside of the vessel at all times.”

Box offered advice to help make the experience safer.

“Avoid congested or confined areas, stay in the middle of the lake, and when not actively surfing, drain water out of the ballast bags while traveling,” he said.

Lewis said it is important for those participating in wake surfing to make sure they are complying with state laws.

“The Texas Water Safety Act states it is illegal for a boater to create a hazardous wake or wash,” Lewis said. “A boat operator can be held responsible for any damage his boat wake causes. We recommend wake surfers stay an extended distance away from any docks, marinas and shorelines.”

There are also secondary concerns related to wake surfing.

“It causes shoreline erosion,” Box said. “If boats aren’t properly maintained, there’s a chance of carbon monoxide issues.”

Beyond that, Box added that there is an increase in lighting on some boats which has created concerns.

“Something else that’s becoming an issue on the lake at night is the use of aftermarket spotlights and light bars,” he said. “It’s illegal to have any additional lights other than those required, such as manufacturer and installed navigational lights. The lights blind oncoming boat traffic, preventing boat operators from seeing other boats and it distorts your night vision.”

More information on watercraft safety and state regulations can be found here.