The alpine lakes of Colorado are hard to beat. For boating, Grand Lake boasts deep, stunning waters and is a popular spot for water sports and exploration. If you like to fish, you can head to Colorado's largest reservoir, Blue Mesa Reservoir, or try Lake…

From the bow to the stern, lots of parts have to work together to move your vessel safely and avoid accidents. Key boat parts include the hull (body), bow (front), stern (rear), port (left), and starboard (right). Essential functional parts include the helm (steering console), propeller (propulsion), transom (motor mount), gunwales (upper…

The state of Washington has some amazing waterways, including some of the best boating lakes in the region. Roomy Lake Chelan has plenty of space for watersports, and Seattle's Lake Union features a seaplane base and urban setting. If you want a unique desert kayaking…

To get your Texas jet ski license (i.e., your boating safety education certificate), you must complete a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)-approved boater education course. Any jet ski operators born after September 1, 1993, are required to have one to operate a personal watercraft.

Though some aspects of life jacket laws are relatively consistent across the U.S., there are also differences in life jacket laws by state. Generally, you need at least one U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person onboard your vessel. If you have children under 12…