The summer season is almost here, bringing longer days, shorter nights, and endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty of our waterways.

DID YOU KNOW: The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee offer some of the best boating and fishing opportunities in the region.

EXPLORING WATERWAYS: Water levels are low right now and it is important to stay safe on the water. Whether you are an avid boater, or you just want to enjoy a sun-filled day on water, there are many ways to soak in the beauty of Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee Waterway safely. 

STAYING SAFE ON THE WATER: The summer season is a popular time on Florida’s waterways. The South Florida Water Management District (District) reminds boaters to exercise caution on the water and always follow these important safety guidelines:

✅ Wear a life jacket while on the water.

✅ Pay close attention to your surroundings.

✅ Closely follow posted signage in 'no wake' and 'slow speed' zones.

✅ Report emergencies and accidents to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or call *FWC or #FWC.

✅ Have a Float Plan. Let friends and family know where you are going and when you will return.

✅ Have a designated operator and never boat under the influence.

✅ Watch the weather and check the forecast regularly.

NAVIGATION NOTICE: The District maintains 11 navigation locks along the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee. 

Boaters navigating to and from Lake Okeechobee should be advised that the District closed certain boat locks on April 15, 2025 because water levels dropped below 12 feet NGVD or 10.70 feet NAVD. The following boat locks temporarily ceased operations and they will be closed to navigation until specific water levels are met.

• The S-135 Boat Lock at the J&S Fish Camp in Martin County.
• The G-36 Boat Lock on Henry Creek in Okeechobee County.
• The S-127 Boat Lock at Buckhead Ridge in Glades County.
• The S-131 Boat Lock at Lakeport in Glades County.

In addition, the S-193 Boat Lock at Taylor Creek in Okeechobee County has been closed during the week, however starting on Saturday, May 31, 2025, this boat lock will also be closed on weekends. This is due to water levels in Lake Okeechobee dropping below 11 feet NGVD or 9.70 NAVD. This boat lock will also remain closed to navigation until specific water levels are met. 

Navigation notices for Lake Okeechobee can be found on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website. To get the latest information about navigation notices, click here.

Anglers and boaters may access local waterways through other public boat ramps. Visit FWC Boat Ramp Finder to find one near you.

A CLOSER LOOK: The District’s Water Management Infrastructure Brochure features a detailed map of the regional water management system in Central and Southern Florida.

We encourage you to visit SFWMD.gov/Navigation to get the latest information on navigation through District structures and waterways.