Best Boat Launching Spots In Western Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a haven for boaters, offering thousands of miles of waterways to explore. From tranquil lakes to adrenaline-pumping rapids, there's something for everyone in the Pocono Mountains. Whether you're looking to rent a motorboat, kayak, or canoe, there are plenty of options to choose from. Pennsylvania boasts over 4,000 acres of inland lakes and 86,000 miles of flowing water, providing endless opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Some of the best lakes for powerboating include Shenango River Lake, Curwensville Lake, and Lake Wallenpaupack, each offering its own unique thrills and adventures. So, get ready to cast off and explore the breathtaking waterways of Pennsylvania!

Where to put a boat in WLE, PA

Boating in the Pocono Mountains

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania offer a range of boating experiences, from tranquil floats to high-speed thrills. With thousands of miles of waterways, there are endless opportunities to explore and enjoy.

Lake Wallenpaupack

Lake Wallenpaupack is a vast body of water in the Pocono Mountains, spanning 5,700 acres with 13 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 60 feet. It offers the perfect setting for jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. There are no horsepower or size restrictions, so you can expect a mix of powerboats and sailboats on the lake.

Beltzville Lake

Beltzville Lake, also located in the Pocono Mountains, offers a different boating experience. With a 19.8-mile shoreline and nearly 1,000 acres of open water, this lake provides plenty of room for waterskiing and tubing. Visitors can take advantage of the three-lane boat launching ramp and dock along the northern shore. Boats are permitted to travel at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, adding a thrilling element to your boating experience.

Lehigh River and Delaware River

If you're looking for a more relaxed boating experience, the Lehigh River and Delaware River offer tranquil floats and peaceful paddles. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboats and explore the scenic waterways at your own pace. For a more unique experience, consider a pontoon or deck boat rental from the local marinas.

Delaware Water Gap and Lake Harmony

In addition to the rivers and lakes mentioned above, the Pocono Mountains also offer boating opportunities at Delaware Water Gap and Lake Harmony. At these locations, you'll find fishing excursions and guided tours, allowing you to combine your love for boating with your interest in fishing or exploration.

Marinas and Pumpout Locations

Across Pennsylvania, including the Pocono Mountains, there are numerous marinas and pumpout locations to support your boating needs. You can rent powered or unpowered boats, and take advantage of the various amenities offered by these facilities. Remember to familiarize yourself with the special boating regulations and always check water and weather conditions before heading out on your boating adventure.

WLE boat procedure

This guide will take you through the process of placing your boat in WLE, PA. Please note that this procedure is effective as of 2023.

Firstly, you must pre-register your boat at the office. This involves paying a $50 fee and obtaining a tag and sticker. This step can be completed anytime from January through to the first Saturday of April.

On the first Saturday of April, after 8:00 am, you can proceed to the small boat locations to claim your spot. Remember to use the tag and sticker you obtained during registration. Within seven days of claiming your spot, you must notify the office via email or phone of the location and rack you chose.

It is important to note that boats may not be placed in the racks, chained, blocked off, or tagged before the specified time. Any boats placed early will be removed or cut, as this is a first-come, first-served process. Additionally, there is only one spot allowed per property owner, regardless of the number of properties owned, and the association has the right to limit the number of boats at each area.

All boats must be removed by the first Saturday in November. Any boats remaining after this date will be removed and a fine and penalty will be incurred. The boat can be claimed within 180 days, after which it will be auctioned if still unclaimed.

Please be aware that specific contact details and emergency phone numbers can be found on the WLE website.

Pennsylvania's boating maps and resources

Pennsylvanian Boating Maps and Resources

Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of boating opportunities, with 86,000 miles of waterways to explore. From the majestic Lake Erie to hidden rivers and serene lakes, there's something for everyone. The state also boasts over 4,000 acres of inland lakes, providing countless opportunities for boating activities.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission provides detailed maps and resources to help you plan your next boating adventure. You can search for boat accesses and special regulation lakes using their County Guide map. There are also 29 water trails available for paddling activities and 47 PFBC-owned lakes across the state.

For those looking to boat in state parks, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources offers information on the best places to boat by motor size and lake acreage. Some state parks offer shoreline mooring, marinas, and dry land mooring areas. Ten state parks with access to large bodies of water have marinas, and the cost depends on the size of your boat.

In terms of regulations, all motorboats must display a current boat registration from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Non-powered boats launched in state parks or forests must have a launching permit from the Commission or a mooring permit from Pennsylvania State Parks, available at most state park offices. All boaters are required to wear USCG-approved life jackets from November 1 through April 30, with children 12 and under requiring them on boats 20 feet or less in length.

Additionally, WLE has specific procedures for property owners wishing to store their boats on-site. Registration and fees are required, and there are rules regarding placement and removal dates.

Boating speed lakes in PA

If you're looking for a high-speed boating experience in Pennsylvania, there are several lakes that fit the bill. Here's a guide to four of them:

Shenango River Lake

Shenango River Lake, located near Cleveland, offers an 11-mile-long stretch of water with no horsepower limitations. This lake is perfect for adrenaline-seekers looking to try their hand at wakeboarding, water skiing, knee boarding, tubing, wake surfing, air chair, or wakeskating. There are six boat launch ramps around the reservoir, making it convenient for boaters to access the water.

Curwensville Lake

Located in the Pennsylvania Wilds, Curwensville Lake imposes no horsepower limitations, so you can go as fast as your boat can take you! It spans 790 acres, and safety measures like life jackets are mandatory for children 12 years of age or younger onboard boats that are 20' or less in length. This lake is a great option for those seeking a thrilling boating experience without speed restrictions.

Lake Wallenpaupack

Lake Wallenpaupack, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, offers a massive 5,700 acres of water with a 13-mile length and 52 miles of shoreline. The speed limit on this lake is set at 45 miles per hour, and there are no horsepower limitations. Jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water skiing are all popular activities here, providing an exciting experience for speed enthusiasts.

Raystown Lake

Raystown Lake in The Alleghenies stands out for its unique absence of both speed and horsepower restrictions. With 110 miles of undeveloped shoreline, this lake offers a different scenery as most summer homes are not built along the water. The shore is lined with trees, creating a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your high-speed boating adventures.

Additional Considerations:

It's important to note that while these lakes offer high-speed boating opportunities, there are special boating regulations and safety guidelines in Pennsylvania that you must follow. Be sure to register your boat with the PA Fish & Boat Commission, and always prioritize safety by wearing life jackets and adhering to speed limits in specific zones.

Registering a boat in PA

If you're looking for a place to put your boat in WLE, PA, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, the WLE has a set procedure for placing your boat in the small boat area, which includes pre-registering your boat, paying a fee, and obtaining a tag and sticker. This process must be completed before the first Saturday of April, and boats must be removed by the first Saturday in November to avoid fines and penalties.

Now, when it comes to registering a boat in PA, the process is handled by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). Boat registrations and titles are issued by the PFBC, and a Pennsylvania boat registration is valid for up to two years, allowing boat operations nationwide and in Canada. Here's a step-by-step guide on registering a boat in PA:

• Determine the Type of Boat: The PFBC defines a boat as a watercraft constructed or sold primarily for transportation on the water, including motorboats, unpowered boats, iceboats, and amphibious vehicles when operated on water. Surfboards, swimming aids, and federally inspected commercial craft are excluded.
• Registration Requirements: In Pennsylvania, boats with gasoline, diesel, or electric motors are required to be registered. Unpowered boats, such as kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, sailboats, and inflatable boats, must be registered or have a launch permit to use PFBC or DCNR State Park or State Forest access.
• Where to Register: Boat registrations are typically handled by the PFBC. You can visit their website or find your local PFBC office to initiate the registration process.
• Registration Validity and Fees: Pennsylvania boat registrations are valid for up to two years, and you will need to renew your registration before it expires. There may be associated fees for registration, which can be found on the PFBC website or by contacting their office.
• Displaying Registration: Once your boat is registered, you will need to display the registration numbers and letters on each side of the boat's forward half. These must be bold, block letters and numbers, at least 3 inches high, and in a contrasting color to the background. Additionally, a validation decal must be displayed within 6 inches of the numbers.
• Required Documentation: A valid registration card must be carried on the boat at all times. Additionally, certain boats may be required to have a certificate of title, which is a legal document proving ownership.
• Renewal and Updates: Remember to renew your boat registration before it expires. You can renew it online or in person. Keep your contact and ownership information up to date with the PFBC to avoid any issues.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your boat is properly registered in PA, allowing you to enjoy the state's vast network of waterways and lakes. Remember always to follow boating safety regulations and display your registration information clearly.

Frequently asked questions