Your Perfect Day on the Water Starts with the Right Gear

Ready to feel the freedom and excitement of a day of boating on the lake? Reeder-Trausch Marine in Rockville, IN, can help you make your adventure safe and fun.

At Reeder-Trausch Marine, we are all about living life to the fullest, and in our world, this means spending time on the lake. Any boating adventure starts with having the right gear and safety knowledge. So, prepare in advance so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Safety First!

There’s nothing like the feel of the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you cut through the water, but safety always comes first. Every boat trip starts with essential safety gear, such as Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone in the boat. Make sure you have the right size for everyone, too.

When surrounded by water, you may not think that you need a fire extinguisher, but fires happen on boats. Having a working Class B fire extinguisher is a must. You’ll also want some kind of communication device. Put your fully charged cellphone in a waterproof case and have a VHF radio so you can still contact someone if there’s no cell service on the lake.

Having the right safety items on board can make all the difference in an emergency. A first-aid kit is essential for treating minor cuts or injuries while out on the water. For larger boats, a throwable flotation device is not only a smart safety choice but also required by law. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra oar, just in case you need to manually paddle the boat.

Don’t forget visual distress signals like flares or a signaling device—these are crucial for alerting others if you need assistance, especially in low-visibility situations. Be sure to review the full list of Coast Guard-required items to ensure you're compliant and prepared on the water. Taking these simple precautions ensures that every boating trip is both safe and enjoyable.

Navigation Tools - Even if You Know Where You’re Going

Even if you’ve been on the lake before and know your way around, having GPS or navigation charts is still a good idea. Things happen, and you don’t want to find yourself lost out on the water. Most modern boats that you’ll find at Reeder-Trausch Marine will have GPS systems built right in. Navigation tools also help you avoid shallow areas or submerged obstacles, which are not always visible, ensuring a safer boating experience.

Toys and Entertainment

What’s a day out on the lake without the right toys and entertainment? If your boat doesn’t have speakers, bring a portable one (or two) so you can set the mood with music. If you and your friends are adrenaline junkies, grab the wakeboard, the towable tube, or water skis. If you’re looking for something a little more laid back, a paddleboard is a great way to enjoy the water. A little pro tip: don’t try to cram all the water sports into one day trip. Choose a few favorites and save the others for another day.

Reeder-Trausch Marine – Your Adventure Starts with the Right Boat

No boating adventure can start without the right boat, which is where we come in. We are the boat dealership you want to turn to when you want the best selection and the best customer service. We are committed to building long-lasting relationships with our customers and providing them with all of their boat buying, financing, and servicing needs.

Give us a call or stop by the dealership today, and we’ll show you what we have, answer any questions you have, and keep you informed about boat buying every step of the way.