Tag Archives: falls lake

Facts About Some of Our Favorite Lakes

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The state of North Carolina is known for its picturesque views whether that be beachfront, mountaintop, or lakefront. With all the outdoor activities available ranging from hiking to fishing, it is a beautiful state that offers something for everyone to enjoy. This blog post by Motor Boatin’ shares facts about some of our favorite lakes in the local area: Falls, Jordan, Harris, and Kerr Lake.

Learn more about 4 of our favorite lakes in North Carolina:

1. Falls Lake: Falls Lake covers over 12,000 acres. Its peaceful atmosphere is great for camping, hiking, or laying out in the sun on a sandy beach. It is named after “Falls of the Neuse” which was once a whitewater section of the Neuse River. Although there’s no more whitewater areas, it is the perfect spot for families to boat, fish, or swim in uncrowded waters.

2. Jordan Lake: With over 13,000 acres, Jordan Lake is a common choice for many families, especially with children because of all the activities available. This lake was created for the New Hope River Valley (now known as Research Triangle Park) based on water resource needs. In 1963, the project was named New Hope Lake. The name was changed in 1973 to B. Everett Jordan Lake in honor of a senator.

3. Harris Lake: Located on the Shearon Harris Reservoir, Harris Lake covers over 4,000 acres. It encompasses a park of around 680 acres that includes trails, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and more. It is a quiet and well-maintained area to spend your day at.

4. Kerr Lake: Kerr Lake is one of the largest lakes in the entire state and takes up over 50,000 acres. Surrounding the lake are vast forests where common NC mammals such as white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, red foxes, and many more call home. With 500 miles of shoreline and 3,400 acres of recreation sites, there is plenty of beauty to take in at Kerr Lake.

All these lakes are close to home but offer that sense of a unique getaway. Get out there and explore all North Carolina has to offer by renting with Motor Boatin’. On a lake is our favorite place to be. Reserve your boat today and contact us with any questions you may have.

How to Host Your Next Getaway with Motor Boatin’

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Pssst —We’ve got a secret! Do you want to know our favorite reason at Motor Boatin’ for being on the lake? It’s simple. We love how easy it is to quickly get away from it all. No matter whether you rent one of our jet skis, fishing boats, or pontoons, when you are on the water, your mind is not on work, school, or other stressful daily tasks.

So, when you are ready to plan and host your next quick getaway, let us help you by showing you just how easy it is:

Naturally, it starts by knowing how many people you will be hosting. If it’s a group of 10 to 15, you are going to want one of our amazing pontoon boats. They are perfect for hosting a group of that size on the water. In addition, there is room for coolers, picnic baskets, swim bags, towels, sunscreen, life vests, and everything else you will need to have fun and stay safe.

If you are planning on embarking from our normal location at the Highway 50 Boat Ramp in Wake Forest, we recommend having your entire party meet us at the scheduled time at the ramp. This way, you can prevent extended wait times or having to stop in other locations to pick up and drop off guests.

Be sure to know the ages and sizes of all children because they are legally required to always wear vests while onboard. If you are looking to grill out, know that you must have the boat pulled up to a beach area. Grilling on board the boat is not permitted for safety reasons.

Entertainment is a breeze because our pontoons come equipped with stereos, and most have Bluetooth capability.

In short, our pontoons are the easiest way for a group to make a quick getaway for a day of fun in the sun. To see our availability, prices, and make a reservation, just click here or call us at 919-800-9716.

3 Ways to Sharpen Your Boating Skills

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At Motor Boatin’, we have a lot of first-time boaters use our rentals – which we love! We are always dedicated to ensuring that all our customers feel completely confident out on the water and satisfied with their rental experience. We believe that this all starts with learning the boating basics. Because of this, this blog post shares some of our favorite ways for boating beginners to sharpen their skills.

Here are 3 ways to sharpen your boating skills as a beginner:

  1. Take an online safety course: Online, you can find hundreds of resources to learn more about boating. There are tons of courses, many of them being free, that you can take to master your time spent out on the lake. We recommend this free course on North Carolina Boating Safety from BoatUS Foundation.
  2. Get familiar with the area: One of the most important aspects of steering a boat is navigation. For first timers, it is often intimidating trying to learn where to go in a lake full of open water. It is much like visiting a new country for the first time. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead of time. There are many different boat navigation apps available which are important to download; however, unfamiliar waters with no cellular service usually don’t end well. This means you should always also feel comfortable with a compass and map when there’s no other option.
  3. Practice makes perfect: Everyone knows this old saying, and it’s true! No boater has ever improved without thorough practice. To really feel comfortable out on the water, it takes time. Our affordable and flexible rental options can assist you in your boating journey. We are always here every step of the way.

The easiest way to sharpen your boating skills is to get out on the lake and test the waters. Motor Boatin’ provides you with rental options for all kinds of boats. Call 919-800-9716 today to see which boat is the best for your plans and check our availability by clicking here.

All About Yamaha WaveRunners

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Yamaha WaveRunners, especially the VX Deluxe model that we carry at Motor Boatin’, are among the best equipped, most fuel-efficient, and well-designed personal watercraft on the market. But that’s not all—they’re also loads of fun to drive on the lake!

WaveRunners are jet-propulsion watercraft. This means that for the jet ski to move through the water, it must pull in water and then push it out the back end. When a rider squeezes the throttle trigger, the engine and pump force the water out a nozzle in the rear of the watercraft. This propels the WaveRunner forward. The nozzle feature effectively works the same way your thumb would when placed over the end of a fast-flowing garden hose. It reduces the line size and causes the water’s velocity to increase. 

Steering the watercraft works in the same way. When the rider turns the handlebars, the nozzle turns in the back. This is done by cables that are connected to each end and run through pulleys. The propulsion when pointed at a different angle turns the watercraft in the direction the handlebars are turned. Unlike other jet skis, Yamahas can turn without squeezing the accelerator.

There is plenty of storage in a WaveRunner. There is a small compartment located in the area between the seat and the handlebars, and there is a much larger storage compartment in the front of the hull. It is easy to fit a small soft cooler inside to transport out to the lake for when you find a spot to stop and chill.

WaveRunners are also known for their famous rooster tail. Believe it or not, Yamaha added the rooster tail as a feature to help other boaters and riders on the lake view the WaveRunner and have an idea of how fast the craft is moving. The more a rider squeezes the trigger, the higher the rooster tail goes in the air.

To learn more about our WaveRunners or to reserve one for yourself, click here. At Motor-Boatin’, we believe in offering the best jet skis on the market to give you the best time on the lake.

A Guide to Winter Fishing: What You Should Know

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There is a common misconception among many people that the winter season in the Triangle is not a good time for fishing. Nothing could be farther from the truth. With the right equipment, bait, and game plan, you can have a successful day of fishing on the lake even during the colder months.

Motor Boatin’ is here to provide you with a guide of what you should know before going fishing in the wintertime:

Let’s start with your gear. Because air and water temperatures are much colder in January or February compared to July or August, you must dress appropriately. To prevent hypothermia, be sure you have waterproof and insulated boots. For super cold days, we suggest wearing insulated gloves also. If you have waterproof pants, wear those along with a parka and hat.

The next part to consider is your bait. Fish are cold-water creatures, and in the winter, their metabolisms slow down. Certain lures that move too fast in the water don’t work in winter. Live bait like minnows, shiners, or worms work best. If you do choose a lure, use one that mimics sunfish or perch. Having the right bait that matches what fish feed on in cold weather makes all the difference.

Your game plan should include how to stay safe when it’s colder out and times when fish feed. Check weather forecasts and know when fronts move in because those affect the activity levels of freshwater species. Generally speaking, fish are more active and feed more often prior to a front approaching than after it passes. Because the sun is positioned further south in the winter, it shines brighter on northern shore banks. Try to look there for more activity. Typically, the best time to catch fish in the winter runs from 10 AM to 4 PM.

For more tips and to reserve one of our fishing boats, click here. At Motor Boatin’, we know you can have a great time on the lake – no matter what season of the year it is.

Hidden Gems on Falls Lake

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At Motor Boatin’, we often get asked for suggestions on some great spots on Falls Lake to ride to and enjoy. Naturally, customers are looking for hidden gems to check out. We’ve got some great recommendations for you, but there is one detail we must add before we answer that.

Each area of the lake is great for certain things. That is what makes Falls Lake a hidden gem in itself.

As for great spots to check out, that depends on the type of activity you are interested in doing. For tubing, the most extensive open area is between Sandling Beach and Rollingview Beach. It is wide open, and there is lots of room to swing around.

For water skiing or wake surfing, the main channel is a great option. It is ten miles long, wide, and winding for a significant challenge.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a quiet place to anchor, relax, float in the water, and eat lunch, there are numerous coves throughout Falls Lake. Most boaters are considerate of others and will give you space and privacy. Our pontoon boats are the perfect vehicle for finding that cove and enjoying the day with family and friends.

If fishing is what you’re after, the good news is there is an abundant supply of largemouth bass, catfish, and white bass. The southernmost areas of the lake, near the dam, are among the best spots for casting. Our fishing boats can get you there with ease.

No matter what activity you have in mind on the water, there is a spot on Falls Lake for you to enjoy it. To reserve your next boat and head to that gem, contact us today.

Helpful Tips to Navigate Crowded Waters This Summer

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It’s almost officially summer, and there is no better way to spend the day in the beautiful weather around the Triangle than on the lake on a boat. Everyone seems to agree with this which is why crowded waters are more and more common during this season. There is nothing to be worried about in crowded waters as long as the proper precautions are taken. At Motor Boatin’, we believe that safe boating is the best type of boating out there which is why we want to help.

Here are five tips for navigating crowded waters this summer:

  1. Never drink and boat: While boating out with friends might seem like one big party, safety is important, and the person driving the boat should not be consuming alcohol. You wouldn’t drink and drive, so do not try drinking and boating either. Having a clear mindset and good visual awareness is crucial when navigating crowded waters for not only your own safety but the safety of others as well.
  2. Keep your speed in mind: When boating in a crowded area, slow and steady wins the race. The slower the speed the more time there is to take in the surroundings and properly navigate the situation. Trying to quickly get through the area can lead to mistakes and rougher water which is bound to cause accidents.
  3. Have a designated skipper: When boating, make sure that there is someone else who knows about the operations of a boat. Having someone to help out can make a stressful crowded situation more manageable and all around safer for all.
  4. Keep distance from crowds: While the crowds can’t always be avoided, doing your best to go around them is important. If you see a crowded area in the distance, if possible, go the other direction or anchor up and enjoy the current location you’re already at.
  5. Always wear a life vest: You never know what is going to happen and it is always better to be safe than sorry. Having the proper flotation devices can help avoid a bad situation. There is also a law in North Carolina that requires anyone younger than 13 to wear an appropriate life vest when on a recreational vessel.

During the summertime, boating is a great way to enjoy and relax in the wonderful weather but being safe is more important than anything. Taking the proper precautions when boating crowded waters can make all the difference. For any questions contact us here!

The Top Four Reasons Boaters Love Falls Lake

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 Falls Lake is one of the most popular lakes in the Raleigh area and it’s our personal favorite as well. We love it so much that we have based our recreational boat rental business on this lake!

Here are a few reason boaters love Falls Lake:

  1. So much space to explore: Falls Lake is pretty big. It stretches out through 12,000 acres, providing lots of space to take a boat out. There are wider areas to really let loose and smaller areas for more quiet relaxation. We find that whatever kind of boating experience we want, Falls Lake has a spot for it.
  2. Close to home but still a getaway: The lake is pretty central to Raleigh and Durham, but it’s still a little bit out of the way. The short drive coupled with the undeveloped surroundings makes it feel like you’re really away while still being close to home.
  3. Activities: There are many activities beyond boating available at Falls Lake. You can camp and make a whole weekend out of boating, enjoying beaches, hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing and more.
  4. Year-round appeal: Because it’s undeveloped, you get to really enjoy nature’s beauty at this lake. The lushness of summer, the colors of fall, the quiet stillness of winter and the burst of new growth in the spring are all on full display at Falls Lake.

To us, the best way to enjoy Falls Lake is by boat, which is why we’re in the business that we are in. Rent a boat and spend some time on Falls Lake. Check out the boats and jet skis available to rent or contact us with any questions. Don’t forget to take advantage of the special we are running for the month of February – purchase a rental and get free rental insurance and a towable tube.

Four of the Best Things to do at Falls Lake

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There are a lot of things to do at falls lake. Spending a summer at falls lake could be done with no problem! We are going to tell you our favorite three things to do at falls lake!

Before we share our four favorite things to do, we want to share a few honorable mentions. We also love hiking, swimming, boating (non-gasoline powered), and checking out the beaver dams at Falls Lake.

While spending the weekend at Falls Lake, our favorite four things to do at the lake are:

  • Boating: Our pontoon boats are the peak of Falls Lake. Many individuals coming out to Falls Lake to enjoy Falls Lake Recreation will end up renting one of our boats to spend the day on the lake.
  • Jet Skis: One of the best ways to enjoy the water and break up the day on pontoon boats or fishing is to rent a jet ski. Our jet skis are available in half-day or whole day rentals.
  • Fishing: Falls lake is known for its amazing fishing. Having five different types of fish including largemouth bass and two types of catfish puts Falls lake a few steps ahead of any other regular fishing spot. There are also multiple ways to fish at Falls Lake. Renting a motorboat or paddle/ non-gasoline boat are the two most popular ways.
  • Camping: Many of our boat renters want to spend more time on the boats or want one day to enjoy jet skis. For those individuals, we really suggest camping in the Falls Lake Grounds. It’s a great way to enjoy both boats and jet skis.

Are you planning on spending a weekend at Falls Lake this Fall? Then, our team at Motor Boatin’ would love to be part of your trip! We have phenomenal boats for fishing, jet skis, and more available to rent. Click here to learn more now.

A New Boat at Motor Boatin’

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It’s been a busy summer at Motor Boatin’ and we’ve decided to buy a new boat! This boat can completely change the game on the lake. A new boat can create a lot of new things to do at the lake. This boat can pull tubes, fish from, go fast, and seat four people. This new boat is called the MAXUM.

 

With the MAXUM you can do a lot. There are also a few features on this new boat that are different from the other boats.

 

  • MAXUM 1800MX
  •  4 seats
  •  135 Horsepower
  •  885lbs Max Weight
  •  Bimini Top
  •  18 ft Length

 

What does this mean? Well, this boat has almost double the power as a sweet water pontoon. This boat can also reach speeds up to 45mph. Renting a boat like this would allow a great time for a family. Four seats allow the perfect amount for a family trip to the beach. Not too little space but just enough. This boat is great for tubing, fishing, and many other things can be done on this awesome boat!

If you want to book this boat or another one of our boats now, click here.