Exercise courtesy while enjoying towed water sports
BY LORRAINE ATKINS
Smith Mountain Eagle contributor
Published: April 22, 2026
The Smith Mountain Lake Association Water Safety Council and the Wake Education Taskforce want water skiers, wakeboarders, and others to enjoy being towed around the lake. The primary goal is to ensure everyone’s safety in the water.
Below are tips for safely towing children and adults on recreational equipment:
• Stay at least 200 feet (ca. 61 m) from docks, shorelines, swimmers, and small non-motorized craft, such as rowboats, sailboats, paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks.
• Remember that sailboats and other non-motorized watercraft have the right of way.
• Stay as close to the center of the lake as possible.
• Observe NO WAKE signs.
• Give space to people fishing on the lake.
• Avoid repetitive passes in one cove. There are many safe locations for pulling a wakeboard or tube on the lake. Staying in one location can create tension with some homeowners on a cove.
• Avoid driving erratically and making quick turns.
• Wake surfers should throw the surf wake away from the shoreline towards the center of the lake. This helps protect the shoreline from wave action.
• All participants in the boat and on the towed equipment should wear US Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
• Do not consume alcohol while driving a watercraft.
Download the map for Safe Towed Watersports at https://tricountylakes.org/who-weare/wake-education-task-force/recommended-safe-towed-watersports-areas/ to your phone or tablet.
Using common sense and respecting other people on the lake will make your boating experience safe and enjoyable.
Copyright 2026 Smith Mountain Eagle.