Paddling Etiquette

Know and Follow the Rules

• Stay on navigable water trails and respect private property.
• Do not use water trails that are closed or do not permit your watercraft type.
• Indiana law requires all watercraft to carry one wearable PFD (personal flotation device) for each person on board.

Sharing Water Trails

Interactions at Access Sites

• Do not park in front of or otherwise block access sites.
• Be patient. Only one watercraft should use an access site at a time. 
• Have your gear ready to go when it is your turn in order to minimize the amount of time needed at access sites.
• Be friendly and courteous to other river users.

Interacting with Boaters

• Leave proper spacing between watercrafts, and more than usual in rougher waters.
• Slower moving watercrafts should stay right, while faster moving watercrafts should pass on the left.
• To avoid collisions in open water, try to maintain a clear and consistent direction.
• In the event of two watercrafts approaching head on, each watercraft should veer right.

Interacting with Anglers

• Try to stay in the main flow when passing anglers and give them a wide berth.
• Minimize splashing and noise levels.
• Do not approach or startle anglers.
• Quietly acknowledge their presence with a wave, nod, or smile.

Be a Good Steward

• Carry in, carry out. Mesh bags tied to your watercraft are great for storing any trash you generate or find along the water trail.
• Be mindful and considerate of your noise level.
• Keep pets under control and on a leash.
• Do not disturb wildlife and their habitats.
• Respect all trail infrastructure as well as natural and cultural resources.
• Leave what you find for others to enjoy.
• Save any adult beverages for AFTER the paddle and once you’ve exited the water trail.

Water Trail Safety Tips

Visit our Water Trail Safety page for detailed safety information.