With the fall comes cooler air temperatures and colorful trees. Although the summer is considered the prime season, it is hard to overlook the fall. As an avid boater, I make efforts to extend my season as long as possible. Don’t pack away the boat just because the summer has come to a close. Here are 6 reasons to extend your season to enjoy boating in the fall. 

The Foliage

The foliage, without question, tops the list. The banks of lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways will undergo a colorful change as the summer shifts to fall. 

Undoubtedly, the beauty is amplified when you combine the reds, orange, yellow, and brown against the backdrop of the water. The reflection can be equally as exhilarating when seen by boat. 

I recommend heading out on the water when the sun is high to further enhance the coloration of the trees. 

Comfortable Air Temperatures

Although you may not want to jump into the water when the air and water temperatures dip, this doesn’t mean it’s not comfortable to go for a boat ride. 

Moving on past the soaring summer high temps can be a relief. Remember, you can always add layers when needed. 

Rather than wearing shorts and a T-Shirt or a bathing suit, throw on a pair of jeans, a long-sleeve shirt, and a jacket. No longer will you be sweating despite shedding as many layers as possible.

Less Congested Waterways

One of the biggest benefits of boating during the fall is having more room to roam. During the fall, a substantial number of boaters pack it in for the season. 

Here are the benefits of less congested waterways when boating in the fall. 

Empty Boat Ramps

If you’re a boater who uses boat ramps on a weekly basis, you know they can be a challenging place to navigate during the summer and especially over weekends. 

As the summer transitions into fall, the ramps become less and less busy. No longer do you have to wait in line to launch and retrieve your vessel. Instead, you can be in or out in a matter of minutes. 

Reduced Boat Traffic

Navigating during the summer when boats are prevalent presents a challenge to operators. I can tell you that I feel more pressure while driving during the summer compared to the fall. 

In the summer, you’re likely to encounter jet skiers, boats towing tubes, and kayakers. All of the previously mentioned heighten your need to be on constant alert. 

While, of course, even during the fall, you must remain vigilant at the wheel. The stress level is lessened because of the reduced traffic. 

More Calm Waters

During the summer, the waterways become turbulent as a result of boat wakes. As boats race back and forth, they are constantly creating waves, which reduces comfort levels for all passengers. 

In the fall, when the boat traffic is lessened, you’re less likely to encounter a constant onslaught of wakes. Comparatively, the boat ride will be far more peaceful and less noisy from racing engines. 

Clear Water

One of my favorite parts about boating in the fall is the improved water clarity. No matter if you’re in a lake, river, or coastal waterway, as the temperatures drop, the water clarity improves. 

Importantly, lower water temperatures equate to slower algae growth rates. Reduced algae growth has a direct correlation to water clarity. 

For this reason, you are more likely to gaze at depths much deeper compared to the summer. This is especially beneficial when spotting fish along docks or other structures as an angler. 

Early Sunsets

As you know, when the fall approaches, the sun sets earlier and earlier by the day. However, early sunsets can work to your advantage when boating. 

Rather than needing to stay out on the boat until 8 or 9 PM to enjoy a sunset like in the summer, instead, the sunset can be watched much earlier. Determine what time your sunset is. 

Furthermore, early sunsets allow you to get back to the dock before the evening temperatures begin to plummet rapidly. 

Reduced Risk Of Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms present a constant threat to boaters, especially during the summer. The summer weather patterns are highly conducive to rapid storm formation. 

During the fall, the weather patterns change, thus reducing your risk of being caught in a thunderstorm while boating. All too often, I have been chased back to the dock as a result of an approaching storm. 

However, don’t assume that a thunderstorm will not pop up at all. Without question, they can still develop. 

Get Out Boating In The Fall

Boating in the fall is my favorite for a multitude of reasons. I always enjoy pushing my season until just before the onset of freezing temperatures. Remember, you can always put up the boat’s enclosure and wear warm clothes to have a few extra days on the water.