With Lake of the Ozarks being Missouri's largest lake, featuring 54,000 acres and 1,150 miles of shoreline to enjoy, it's no wonder that aquatic fun is simply all the rage here. With mild weather, even into winter, you can enjoy this massive lake all year round. Swimming, boating, and scuba diving are just a few of the sports you can partake in at this beautiful piece of eye-candy.
Boating and water sports are the most prominent recreational activities at the Lake of the Ozarks. With the lake boasting numerous small rivers, you can bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent one from the many rental companies along the river. If paddling isn't your cup of tea, sailboats, pontoon boats, bassboats, and speedboats are common sights on this pristine lake. When making your boating selection, keep in mind what water sports you're out to enjoy.
If water skiing is your sport of choice, you'll need a boat with some speed... hence the name: speedboat. Sure, you can try to hook up to your buddy's pontoon boat, but that's not highly recommended. Almost anyone can ski. I can recall being hooked up behind a boat at the young age of 8 years old. My dad only had to go about 5mph to get me standing on the skis considering I weighed all of 60 pounds... much different than that 15mph we had to reach to even halfway get my mom up. My point remains: water skiing is for almost every age, and the only special skill needed is the ability to stand upright and hold on.
Parasailing is a favorite among many at Lake of the Ozarks. The basic idea of parasailing is you sit and are connected to a large parachute. As the boat gains speed, the parachute catches wind, and eventually lifts you into the air. The faster the boat goes, the higher you fly. It's a great way to see the scenery and if you're afraid of heights, it's quite a rush.
When parasailing, keep a few safety tips in mind:
1. Make sure you parasail with a fully licensed (state and local) company operating from a well established location, insured by a licensed insurance company.
2. If you are not experienced, avoid parasailing in high wind conditions (15 knots) due to increased difficulty.
3. Never go up in rain, fog, or an approaching storm.
4. Get adequate safety briefing prior to your flight.
The Lake of the Ozarks is also well known for its excellent fishing. Some of the most commonly caught, (not just fished for), species of fish include: Largemouth Bass, Crappie, White Bass, Striper, and Catfish. Numerous state records have been set here thanks to the excellent management, regulation, and stocking efforts of the Missouri Department of Conservation. Bring your own bass boat, or rent one, for a day of either serious sport fishing, or of leisure spent with the family. One word of caution for all children: When Dad says to "Move back," make sure you do. One fish hook to the eye or face will make you wish you had listened. A trip to the E.R. to remove bait from a family member is never as much fun as a day staying on the lake.
No matter what boat you choose to trek out on, make sure to review Missouri State Boating Laws. To name a few:
1. Life jackets must be available for every person on board a watercraft. Children under the age of seven must wear a life jacket at all times. All persons must wear a life jacket when on a Personal Watercraft.
2. Registration is required of all motorized watercraft regardless of horsepower; all sailboats over twelve feet in length are required to be registered.
3. The operator of any boat being used for towing a person must have another person on board the vessel, seated in a position as to observe the person being towed.
4. Operating a boat while intoxicated is a federal offense--So, remember the life jackets and that DWI Kills and you should have a great and safe boat ride.
No matter what you're looking to do on the water, the Lake of the Ozarks can provide the opportunity. Make sure to use common sense and stay safe. Bring along the kids, the spouse, and the sunscreen; or bring yourself and your Jet Ski for a fantastic vacation in an absolutely beautiful setting.
This guide to Lake of the Ozarks was brought to you by Amelia Bines