Enjoy Towed Sports at SML

Summer on Smith Mountain Lake means skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and wake surfing, and with that fun comes responsibility for everyone on the water. A few simple rules keep the fun going for everyone.

First, always maintain at least 200 feet from shorelines, docks, and structures. At towing speeds, that distance closes quickly. A wipeout near a dock or rocky bank can cause serious injury, and your wake can damage docks and shorelines. Choose your location wisely and stay out of small coves, narrows, and busy stretches of the lake so you can avoid other boats and they can avoid you. Be a good neighbor and avoid making repeated passes in the same area, especially if you’re throwing a large wake.

Finally, never head out without a dedicated observer on board. The driver simply cannot watch both the rider and the water ahead. Your observer’s only job is to keep eyes on the person being towed and alert the driver to any hazards. So gear up, find a good location, and keep a spotter on deck for a safe season on SML.