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This page was last updated: 3/22/2016
On The Lake
CURRENT CONDITIONS
Eastern Basin
FISHING HOTLINES
Jefferson County
315.785.2262
Cayuga County
315.785.2262
Owsego County
1.800.248.4386
315.349.8322
Exercise Caution:
the area off-shore from the Nine Mile Point Nuclear Plants east of Oswego remains off limits to all boating and fishing. The restricted area extends approximately 1000 yards out from the shoreline along the entire reach from Lake View east to Sunset Bay. The penalties for violating this area could be substantial.Military vessels occasionally visit the Port of Oswego to participate in various promotional events They provide great photo Op's . But!!!! be reminded that there is a 100 yard nationwide restricted zone that applies whether they are anchored, at a dock, or underway. Recreational vessels must also proceed at minimum speed when passing within a 500 yard radius. Obviously, these distances could present a dilemma to boaters within the confines of Oswego harbor and, to trollers who are encroached upon in the channels??? Contacting the CG or the approaching vessel on channel 16 would be advisable. The penalties for establilshed violations is extremely severe.
Watch That Wake!!!
As a boat's operator you are legally responsible for the wake you create and the damage or personal injury it causes, no matter how large or small the wake. Think about it! The cost of a fine, repairing someone's boat or dock, or paying their medical bills will far outweigh any inconvenience imposed by a slightly slower speed. The maximum speed within 100 feet of the shoreline or an anchored boat is 5mph. However, driving a boat at or under this speed does not relieve the operator from any damage the resulting wake causes. It has also been determined that a wakes in excess of 5mph may initiate environmental damage to exposed shorelines.
Flotsam and Jetsam
Wonder where the fish are now???
It seems like the lake level control gurus and "Ma Nature" have it all together as mid-December rolls aournd. The current surface elevation of Ontario is consistent with target levels established in the long term draw down rule curve. In fact it is right on. Surface temperatures, keeping those unpredictable roll-over lake effect winds in mind, are hovering around 38 - 40 degrees.
It appears that US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has relaxed it's position regarding the need for US fishing boats and anglers to personally report when returning home from a run into Ontario waters ... including anchoring or drifting. The reporting mandate still applies to boats returning to US ports if they have landed at a port in Ontario and, reported to Canadian customs. Both Ontario and New York fishing and boating regulations apply which allow law enforcement officials to ask for an acceptable ID with proof of residency.
In view of the development of a more aggressive 1812 attitude by Canadian officials, anglers entering Canadian waters are advised to become fully acquainted with Ontario's currently mandated reporting requirements. Or, bring a credit card - Eh.NYS fishing and hunting licenses - Note Changes for 2015 are available for purchase at license issuing outlets or through the mail by calling 1-866-472-4332. In addition licenses can be purchased through DEC's new INTERNET SPORTING LICENSE SALES (DECALS) . NOTE: - The DEC ID Number listed on a previous license issued in the holder's name is required for returning buyers to access their internet accounts. First time buyers must purchase their license at a license issuing outlet or by phone.
Note:
The temporary license receipt received via computer at the time of your Internet order is only valid for 14 days of fishing from the date of its issuance.
Hunters and Trappers must wait, up to 14 days, until they receive the original in the mail or, purchase from a license issuing agent.
Recreational Boating Accident Report
"Federal law requires the operator – or owner, if the operator is deceased or unable to make the report – to file a boating accident report with the State reporting authority when, as a result of an occurrence that involves a boat or its equipment:
•A person dies
•A person disappears from the vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury
•A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid
•Damage to vessels and other property totals $2,000 (lower amounts in some states and territories) or more
•The boat is destroyed.
You can help the Coast Guard and its boating safety partners to save lives by understanding and complying with this requirement"
"No owner or operator of a pleasure vessel less than twenty-one feet, including rowboats, canoes, and kayaks shall not permit its operation, between November first and May first, unless each person on board such vessel is wearing a securely fastened United States Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device of an appropriate size when such vessel is underway".
The Winds of November
Canadian Boater Education Requirements
The enactment of a National law on September 15, 2009 mandates that all boaters who operate a motorized vessel in Canadian waters must meet the requirements of an approved boating and safety education course. Proof of competency must be carried at all times when afloat. Boaters should check to ensure that their US or State programs are acceptable for this purpose.
How does this affect American visitors? Non-residents must meet acceptable “Proof of Competency” requirements if their stay exceeds 45 days, if they are operating Canadian rentals, or a Canadian registered boat. Non-residents who operate a motorized vessel within the 45 day limit must have proof of residency on board at all times. Visiting boaters are also required to comply with National and Provincial equipment and safety requirements. A Restricted Operator’s Permit is also required to operate a VHF radio. Go to www.tc.gc.ca for details. A NYS 2014 - 2015 Fising License is required to fish NY waters through September 30 2015 NOTE CHANGES FOR 2015
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