https://smlassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Cessna180-floatplane.jpg 467 520 Jill Kurtz https://smlassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/SMLA-Logo-Web_Main-Logo.png Jill Kurtz2026-09-10 14:15:252026-09-10 14:15:25Seaplane Safety on Smith Mountain LakeSafety Tips
The SMLA Water Safety Council (WSC) leads the effort to keep Smith Mountain Lake safe. The WSC promotes boating, water sports, and lakefront living safety on and around the lake through education, training, and co-ordination of programming.
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Do I need a license to operate a boat on Smith Mountain Lake?
The state of Virginia requires all Virginia boaters to complete boater education classes. Visit https://www.boat-ed.com/virginia/ for more information.
Do I need a license to fish at Smith Mountain Lake?
Yes, you need a license unless you are fishing from your personal dock.
Is it safe to swim near a dock?
It is risky to swim in any location where electricity is provided near water.
Can I swim in Smith Mountain Lake?
Smith Mountain Lake is safe to swim in, but for more information on water safety see https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/waterborne-hazards-control/ for updates.
Do I need to wear a life jacket when boating on SML?
Adults are not legally required to wear a life jacket when boating on Smith Mountain Lake but it is strongly recommended that you do so. According to Federal regulations, children under 13 years old must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times when the boat is underway. Always ensure that life jackets are readily accessible for everyone on board your boat. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding while wearing life jackets is smart!
How do I know if there are any swimming advisories on SML?
Any active advisories will be posted at the SMLA website.
Can I bring my boat to Smith Mountain Lake?
Yes, you can bring your boat to Smith Mountain Lake. There are several public boat ramps around the lake, and some marinas also have boat ramps. There may be a small fee to launch at marinas. Smith Mountain Lake State Park has a ramp with a boat launch fee for day-use visitors, but overnight guests can launch for free. Be sure that your boat, bait wells, and trailer are all free of weeds, or other live material in order to prevent the spread of invasive species from one lake to another.
Want to learn more or volunteer?
CONTACT WSCCHAIR@SMLASSOCIATION.ORG