Very few natural experiences can match it, and few people have the opportunity to actually own it - the lake living way of life. But, once-in-awhile, we get to share in the relaxing lake life to recharge our souls. So, when we do, here are a few handy tid-bits to consider while out soaking in the sun and enjoying the lake! 

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The Friendly boaters wave:

Just like the locals driving down the country roads performing their traditional "Hi" via the one-finger hand wave, its common place to wave to every boat you pass; its just what you do!  

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Keep the cooler packed:

Keeping a cooler well-stocked for a long day on the lake can be a deal breaker if not executed properly. Sufficient  hydration is key when soaking in the sun and splashing around on the many sandbars Lac Courte Oreilles has to offer. 

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Boater Information:

Enjoy our beautiful waters while boating and be safe and aware of some of the regulations that go along with it.

• Ensure you have the correct number of personal flotation devices and required safety equipment on board. 

• Operate your watercraft in a safe manner, being aware of boating laws and lake hazards specific to the body of water you are on.  "It is unlawful to operate a motorboat within 100 feet of any dock, raft, pier, or buoyed restricted area on any lake at a speed in excess of “slow-no-wake.”

• Do not operate any motorboat while under the influence of an intoxicant. 

• If operating a boat at night, make sure you have the proper lighting on your vessel. 

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Swimmer's itch can be avoided: 

To help prevent a rash from developing, take these precautions: 

• Towel off immediately after being in infested water.

• Swim in water away from the shore.

• Avoid swimming or wading in areas where snails have accumulated.  

• Don't encourage birds to stay near swimming areas by feeding them. 

• Wash your swimsuit often. 

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Pickled Northern Pike Recipe:

Take your catch and fillet; cut fillets into bite-sized square pieces. 

Slice some onions. In quart jar, add 2 cups vinegar, 1/4 cup salt, 1 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon pickling spice. Shake well. 

 

Add several pike cubes into the jar, layering in onion, more fillets, then more onions and so on until jar is full. Install the lid and let it sit for several days and viola! A tasty treat served on crackers while pontooning around the lake.   

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Yodeling - Know the Loon Language:

There are four basic adult loon calls. Each call has a distinct meaning and serves a unique function. They include the yodel, wail, tremolo, and the hoot. 

• The Yodel is a territorial call given only by male loons. Beginning with three slowly rising notes, this call concludes with several undulating phrases. The yodel is typically given whenever a male loon feels threatened, including during aggressive territorial interactions with other loons, when eagles or other predators are nearby, or when a loon’s chicks or nest are closely approached by humans. 

• The wail resembles a wolf howl and is most commonly used for long distance communication between mated pairs of loons. The wail is frequently heard during night vocalizations.

• When loons are disturbed or excited they often give the tremolo call which resembles a quavering laugh. The tremolo is also known as the “crazy laugh.” Tremolos are frequently given during territorial interactions with other loons, during night chorusing, and as a duet between pair members.

• Loons use a soft one note Hoot to call to chicks, mates, or other loons. This call is a friendly greeting, often utilized in close quarters. Loons may also hoot to communicate with rival loons during low-level territorial interactions.

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And remember, a not so good day spent at the lake is still better than a good day while not at the lake! 

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