Boater education mandatory in Texas; BASS implements tourney requirement

Boater education mandatory in Texas; BASS implements tourney requirement News Staff Wed, 05/15/2024 - 07:11 Image

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Outdoors Writer

Texas is a mandatory boater education state.

Completion of a Boater Education Course, or TPWD prescribed equivalency exam, is required of anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who operates any vessel over 15 horsepower, wind-blown vessel over 14 feet and all personal watercraft on Texas.

Children under 13 are prohibited from operating a PWC unless accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age who is legally authorized to operate one.

To operate a vessel alone in Texas, a boater must be 13 years of age to operate a vessel of more than 15 horsepower; or windblown vessel over 14 feet in length; and meet boater education requirements.

Boaters can find a selection of online boater courses that can be taken anytime on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s boater education web page. In-person courses are available. Paddlers can also access a free paddling safety course online.

Fees for the course start at $11 for a basic course and vary depending on in person or online courses. For more information on boater education in Texas, check out tpwd.texas.gov/ education/boater-education.

It is worth noting that the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society recently announced that proof of completion of a boater education course will be required of all anglers competing as boaters in B.A.S.S. fishing tournaments, regardless of age.

The only exceptions are High School and Junior events, where competitors are not allowed to operate the boat.

The new rule becomes effective in January 2025. B.A.S.S. says the submission of proof of a completed course is a simple, one-time process and is valid for life.

Safe Boating Tips

* Take a boating safety course.

* Check equipment. Schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast * Make a float plan. Always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat type and registration, and communication equipment on board before you leave the dock.

* Wear a life jacket. Make sure everyone wears a life jacket – every time. A stowed life jacket is no use in an emergency.

* Use an engine cut-off switch – it’s the law. An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop a powerboat engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard.

* Watch the weather. Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during the excursion.

* Know what’s going on around you at all times. A high percentage of boating incidents each year are caused by operator inattention or improper lookout.

* Know where you’re going and always travel at safe speeds.

* Never boat under the influence. A BUI is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities.

* Keep in touch. Have more than one communication device that works when wet. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cell phones can all be important devices in an emergency.

— Source: National Safe Boating Council