So you want to get out on the water?

We have a variety of resources for you:

Boat Launch Map: Go here if you want to see a map of boat launches across the state. You can zoom in on any part of the state and see the boat launches in that area. Then you can click on the icons on the map for more information on individual boat launches. The map shows boat ramps as well as boat launches for hand carried boats. Note: If you are on dial-up connection, the new map system may be too slow to be useable. The old map system should work better for you but note that the old system does not include most of the sites in Massachusetts.

Boat Launch Search: Go here if you are looking for a particular type of boat launch or looking for boat launches on a particular type of water body. For example, you can use this system to find just the salt water boat ramps in a particular town or county.

Water Trail Maps: Go here to find online maps and guides to paddling specific rivers, lakes and salt-water routes. Also, for printed maps and books see the Maps & Books page.

Events Calendar: This is a good place to check if you want to know about paddling events around the state. This is a good way to get out on the water if you want other people to go paddling with and want to go on an organized trip.

Paddling Tips:

• Respect private property adjacent to public waterways.
• Dispose of all trash properly.
• Observe safe paddling techniques and carry necessary safety gear for each outing.
• Leave a "float plan" with family or friends. This float plan form (in PDF format) was created by Sea Kayaker Magazine, which kindly gave us permission to post it here.
• Be aware of current and future weather and water conditions.
• Know your paddling abilities and plan your outings accordingly.

The above tips came from the this website, which also has more a more detailed list of "Canoeing Regulations and Safety Tips."

The American Canoe Association has a number of detailed pamphlets on canoeing and kayaking safety, skills, ethics and related topics. See this page on the ACA website...scroll down and look for the images of the pamphlets, and click on them to open the PDF formatted pamphlets. Once in the PDFs, make sure to scroll down to see both pages of the pamphlets.