Typically at this point in the season, we see many people ready to bring in their boats for winterization and put them away for the year. Most recently we've noticed people delaying their winterization appointments in favour of this beautiful warm weather we have been receiving these last couple of weeks. As we approach fall, the trees are beginning to show their much anticipated colours, and while scenic drives are popular, we believe there's an even better way to experience the vibrant hues of the season – from your boat. The unique vantage point on the water provides a 360-degree immersion in the Kawartha Lakes autumn display that can't be matched on land.
Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your Kawartha Lakes fall boating experience:
1. Thanksgiving Water Tour
Start a new holiday tradition this year. Before your Thanksgiving feast, gather family and friends for a scenic boat tour. Bundle up, set out to explore the waterways adorned in autumn colours, and build an appetite for that turkey and pumpkin pie!
2. Autumn Anchoring
Fall is perfect for finding a quiet spot to drop anchor for a few hours. Bring warm blankets, woolly socks, and a thermos of hot cider or cocoa. Relax surrounded by fall beauty from all angles – colourful leaves reflected on the water, calls of migrating bird, and crisp autumn air. It's hard to find these pleasures in any other season.
3. Overnight Fall Adventure
Extend your boating season with an overnight trip at a marina, lock station, or secluded island campsite. Enjoy the cozy comfort of sleeping under warm blankets in the cool fall air. Gather around a campfire (where permitted) for s'mores and stargazing, then wake up to misty mornings and the sounds of nature preparing for winter.
4. Autumn Fishing Trip
As the water begins to cool, fish that spend the hot summer days at the bottom of the lake keeping cool will begin to make their way back to shallower water, transitional areas, and island points. Once the temperature is below 21ºC the fall frenzy will begin. Whether your looking for Walleye, going for Crappie, or if you're still after Bass, the fall is a great time to get your lines in the water and enjoy the outdoors. If you have the knack for fishing, or are looking for something new to do with the family, consider a fall fishing trip surrounded by the scenic fall backdrop of the Kawartha lakes.
5. Photography Cruise
Capture fall's photogenic scenery from unique water-based perspectives. Whether using a professional camera or a smartphone, you'll find stunning shots of vibrant reflections, misty mornings, and golden sunsets illuminating the shoreline.
Conclusion
As the days grow shorter, and winterization season is in affect, don't forget that there is still much that boating has to offer. The combination of crisp air, warm sun, and explosive colours creates a boating environment unlike any other time of year. Layer up, grab some hot beverages, and set out to enjoy autumn from the best seat in the house – your boat. The memories you make will last long after the last leaf has fallen.
