Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

It's the Law: Specifically for Skiing

Vessel operators towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or any other device have additional laws.

Requirements for Towing Skiers

A person may not be towed behind a vessel between sunset and sunrise.
When a vessel is towing a person on water skis, a surfboard, or other device, the operator must have another competent person on board to act as an observer.
A PWC operator may not tow a person on water skis or other devices unless the PWC is designed and recommended by the manufacturer to accommodate at least three people.
Those towing skiers on water skis, a surfboard, or similar devices and those being towed must act in a safe and prudent manner.
- Vessels towing persons may not come within 100 feet of other vessels, persons in the water, a swimming area, or a public boat landing.
- Persons being towed behind a vessel on water skis, a surfboard, or other device, or their towing rope, may not come within 100 feet of a PWC.

Avoid Propeller Strike Injuries!

Most propeller strike accidents result from operator error. Victims include swimmers, scuba divers, fallen water-skiers, and boat operators or passengers. Most propeller accidents can be prevented by following basic safe boating practices.

Maintain a proper lookout. The primary cause of propeller strike accidents is operator inattention.
Make sure the engine is off so that the propeller is not rotating when passengers are boarding or leaving a boat.
Never start a boat with the engine in gear.
Slow down when approaching congested areas and anchorages. In congested areas, always be alert for swimmers and divers.