Boat Ramps In Pennsylvania: Open Or Closed?

There are many boat ramps in Pennsylvania, with some being public and some being private. The state has a range of boating regulations, and motorized boats must be registered with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Non-motorized boats do not need to be registered, but if they are using Fish & Boat Commission launches or properties, state-owned lakes and waterways, or Army Corps of Engineers properties, they must be registered or have a use permit.

Boat ramps in Pittsburgh, PA

• Dock of the Bay Marina Ramp, 1899 Main Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
• Aspinwall Marina Ramp, 285 River Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
• Bell Harbor Yacht Club Ramp, 107 Saint Charles Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
• Allegheny Marina Inc. Ramp, 1 62nd St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
• Brilliant Boat Marina Ramp, 6101 Stanton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
• South Side Riverfront Park Launch Ramp, Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Pittsburgh, PA 15203

There are also several boat ramps in other parts of Pennsylvania, such as Philadelphia, Essington, and Blawnox.

It is important to note that there are special boating regulations in Pennsylvania that must be followed. These regulations include speed limits, restrictions on the type of boat engine, and requirements for personal flotation devices. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these regulations before heading out on the water.

Boat ramp regulations

Registration and Permits:

• All motorized boats in Pennsylvania must be registered with the PFBC. This includes boats used on both public and private waterways.
• Non-motorized boats, such as canoes and kayaks, are not required to be registered. However, if they are launched from PFBC properties, state-owned lakes and waterways, or Army Corps of Engineers properties, they must be registered or have a use permit.

Speed and Wake Restrictions:

• In certain areas, boats are limited to a "slow, no wake speed." This means operating at a speed that does not create a wake or disturb the peace. Specific locations with this restriction include the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers in Pittsburgh, as well as various lakes, reservoirs, and creeks throughout the state.
• Water skiing is prohibited in specific zones, such as the Glassport Bridge to the Union Railroad Bridge at Clairton, and certain areas of Beltzville Lake.
• There are also speed limit restrictions in some locations, such as a 45 mph limit on Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay.

Prohibited Activities and Equipment:

• Airboats are prohibited on Pennsylvania waters.
• The use of internal combustion engines or motors above a certain horsepower limit is prohibited in many state parks and lakes. For example, motors over 10 horsepower are prohibited on the Susquehanna River Lake Frederick.
• Kite skiing and parasailing are prohibited in certain areas, such as Beltzville Lake.
• The anchoring of boats is restricted in some locations, such as within 100 feet of the marina boat dock in Franklin Cove.

Personal Flotation Devices:

Personal flotation devices that are approved by the Coast Guard are mandatory for all individuals on board boats less than 16 feet in length or any canoe or kayak.

Special Zones and Areas:

• Designated ski zones are established in certain areas, such as behind Nine Mile Island, where boats not engaged in towing water skiers must maintain a slow, no-wake speed.
• There are specific regulations for Pittsburgh's rivers, including the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, which include speed restrictions during certain times of the year.
• Some areas have restrictions on the number of water skiers that can be towed by a single boat, such as a limit of one water skier on weekends and holidays on the Allegheny River.

Boat Launch Sites:

• Pennsylvania offers a variety of public and private boat launch sites, including ramps and marinas. These sites may have specific regulations and fee structures.
• Examples of public boat launch sites in Pittsburgh include the Dock of the Bay Marina Ramp, Aspinwall Marina Ramp, and Brilliant Boat Marina Ramp.

These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of boaters and to protect Pennsylvania's waterways and natural resources. It is important for boaters to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations that apply to their location and type of vessel. Additional regulations may also be in place for certain waters, so it is always a good idea to check for local postings or contact the PFBC for more information.

Boat ramp safety

Preparation is Key

Before arriving at the ramp, ensure your boat is ready for launch. This includes checking fuel levels, loading all necessary equipment and safety gear, and inspecting your boat for any damage. Taking care of these aspects beforehand saves time and avoids inconvenience for you and other boaters.

Mind the Queue

Boat ramps, especially during peak times, can be bustling places. It is important to be mindful of the line of boats waiting their turn. Have your boat prepared and be efficient in launching to avoid causing delays for others. However, do not rush the process, as it may pose risks to you and others.

Effective Communication

Clear communication with your crew or helpers is vital. Ensure everyone knows their tasks, whether it's parking the trailer, manoeuvring the boat, or coordinating the launch process. Good communication streamlines the operation and prevents confusion.

Inspect the Ramp

Before backing your trailer into the water, take a moment to inspect the ramp for any hazards or obstacles, such as rocks, debris, or slippery patches. This proactive step can help prevent accidents or damage to your trailer or boat.

Understand Tides and Currents

If you're launching in a river or tidal area, understanding tides and currents is crucial. Check tide tables, current information, and weather details to make informed decisions and protect yourself from potential risks.

Safe Launching Techniques

When backing your trailer into the water, use smooth and controlled movements. Avoid jerky motions or sudden direction changes, as they can lead to accidents or damage. Even if corrections are needed, do so slowly and carefully to maintain control.

Monitor Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on the weather forecast before heading out. High winds, rough waters, or heavy rain can make launching challenging. If the weather is unfavourable, consider adjusting or postponing your plans.

Practice Good Ramp Etiquette

Good ramp etiquette includes being patient, courteous, and mindful of other boaters. Clean up after yourself, avoid blocking the ramp unnecessarily, and follow any posted rules and regulations. Remember, everyone's cooperation keeps the ramp safe and accessible.

Be Mindful of Wildlife

Boat ramps are often located near natural habitats. Be cautious and avoid disturbing or harming any animals or their environment. Do not litter, and ensure your boat is well-maintained to prevent fuel or oil leaks that could damage the natural areas.

Prioritize Safety

Above all else, prioritize safety at all times. Wear appropriate safety gear, follow regulations, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. A safe boat launch is a successful one!

Boat ramp locations

There are many boat ramp locations in Pennsylvania. Here is a list of some of them:

• A B Marina - 500 Middle Street, Brownsville, PA, 15417
• A&D Marine -Atv - 117 Creamery Road, Greentown, PA, 18426
• Aitch Boat Launch and Fishing Dock - Aitch Rd, Marklesburg, PA, 16657
• Aleghany Boat Club - 314 Arch Street, Verona, PA, 15147
• All State Marine - 200 Dawson Ave, Glenfield, PA, 15143
• Allegheny Marina Inc. - 1 62nd St, Pittsburgh, PA, 15201
• Anchorage Marina - 86 Jansen Avenue, Tinicum Township, PA, 19029
• Aspinwall Marina - 285 River Ave, Blawnox, PA, 15238
• Auburn Lake Ramp - 352-552 Meadow Dr, Auburn, PA, 17922
• B & L Marina - 4621 Royal Ave, Coraopolis, PA, 15108
• Bald Eagle State Park - 245 Park Rd, Howard, PA, 16841
• Baum's Cove Marina - 110 Main St, Tullytown, PA, 19007
• Bay Harbor Marina - 726 Bayfront Bikeway, Erie, PA, 16507
• Beach Club Marina - 137 Pennsylvania 837, New Eagle, PA, 15067
• Beechwood Lake, Tioga County Access - 495 Lake Drive Rd, Clymer, PA, 16950
• Bell Harbor Yacht Club - 1 River Rd, Blawnox, PA, 15238
• Belmont Lake, Wayne County Access - 2912 Belmont Turnpike, Mt Pleasant, PA, 18453
• Beltzville Lake 1 - Deer Ln, Lehighton, PA, 18235
• Betzwood Boat Ramp - W County Line Rd, Norristown, PA, 19403
• Bill's Midway Marina - 11420 Pennsylvania 18, Conneaut Lake, PA, 16316
• Black Moshannon State Park - 4216 Beaver Rd, Philipsburg, PA, 16866
• Black Rock Boat Ramp - Pennsylvania 113, Phoenixville, PA, 19460
• Blue Marsh Lake - 1268 Pallisades Drive, Bernville, PA, 19506

Boat ramp types

Boat ramps are used to launch small craft using trailers and tow vehicles. They require a sloping paved surface that goes from the level of the land at the top to a point below low tide, providing sufficient depth for the boat to be floated off the submerged trailer. The typical slope of a boat ramp is one vertical to eight horizontal.

When designing a boat ramp, the type and size of boats to be launched and retrieved must be considered. The site and design of a ramp for a canoe or car-top boat in shallow water will differ from that of a ramp for launching larger trailered boats in tidal water.

Boat ramps can be constructed for private or public use. When selecting a site for a public boat ramp, consideration must be given to site accessibility, proximity to other boat ramps, water depths, siltation rates, and usable land area (parking, turning radius, etc.).

Boat ramps can be constructed using various methods, such as pre-cast concrete slabs or pouring concrete on-site. The underwater section of the ramp should be constructed by cofferdamming the ramp area and pumping out the water before placing and finishing the concrete. This method provides better horizontal and vertical control of the slab.

Slipways are similar to boat ramps but are used for launching vessels that are too large for vehicle trailers, such as fishing trawlers. They are typically located in fishing harbours and are also used for regular vessel maintenance. Instead of trailers, a dedicated bogey with cast-iron wheels that run on steel rails is used.

Frequently asked questions