I just saw this today and was unaware this was put into practice. Scroll down or click on the "Boating Season is Here" link on the DNR page. Just a heads up to those with teens out on the lake who would fall under this regulation.


http://dnr.wi.gov/news/DNRNews_Lookup.asp?id=119#art5

Nothing new....this should be a mandatory requirement anywhere which i believe most states already have. Here in Ct. we had these boating regulations at least 25 years now....took my course through the u.s. coast guard. Anyone in a northern type climate should be required to wear approved life jackets from labor day to memorial day. Just last fall a boat of 3 guys were fishing in the lake where i live overturned...one guy drowned...the other two were rescued in time suffering from severe hypothermia....none were wearing life jackets mandatory for that time of year....all would have survived if they did.

The rule is new to Wisconsin boaters as I understand it.

Also I am against a mandatory life jacket rule, just as I am against a mandatory helmet rule, and seatbelt rule. Just my point of view.

I have a cabin in WI. So I have no problem sending my son through the class. (I took it in MN when I was 12 and it is valuable)

But what about my buddy who comes for the weekend, he can't drive my boat?

I don't know the answer but I would use the excuse that he or she can legally dive it in there home state and is therefore OK under the law. If they were born before 1989 it doesn't matter. Its the same law put in place for hunters education and snowmobile operation. A fixed year in time where all born after need the course but all born before don't need it. Eventually everyone will have to have the course.

I would think if your buddy has passed one of those safe boating and pwc courses in another state and has their certificate...it should be applicable in any state...might be some sort of transfer fee though....and your right..this course is invaluable...i've seen so many idiots over the years in my travels in states that don't practice this...its long overdue in all 50.

I wish the DNR had ther shit together, when i was geting my goup hunting violation last deer season the warden told me that i do not need to carry my hunter saftey card anymore. I talked to a warden tonight he said that i should carry it at all times WTF!

I agree they should except it from state to state like they do or hunter saftey!