I'm looking for super basic information on PWC and local information and rules. I love the water and don't have much experience with boating and such but I thought I start with a PWC because it looks like a lot of fun. I've been looking for a good starting point for basic information and can't find one.
Are there any places where people could try one out or rent them around Pittsburgh? If I couldn't rent one, I can afford to buy a used one but where do I launch off of, how to find a marina for PWC, where to store it for the summer, etc.
If you could provide me with any assistance, I would be most grateful. Thank you.
Don't know much about where to rent in the area. However regarding launch points around Pittsburgh, I would refer to the interactive map under the places to go link on the home page hear. The two primary launches in the Pittsburgh Pool are Southside (off of 18th Street) and Sharpsburg. However there are several other private launches and others in in other pools as well.
There are several PWC riders in this forum that can provide more info. However before getting on one, particularly if it is a PWC take the boaters saftey class on line.
I was in the same boat (pun intended) a few years ago. Almost bought PWCs because I wanted to get started with something small and easy. Went with a small boat and I have never regretted it. Plus, I paid less for my boat than I would have for two PWCs.
But, to answer your questions more specifically... I tried to find rentals myself and was never successful. I know there are pontoon boat rentals in the city pool, just can't remember who does it. Many people use the South Side ramp for PWCs. Used PWCs can be cheap to buy, but expensive to maintain.
I think you will find boating in the pool a little more enjoyable. PWC's are great on a lake, but I would think would be less things you can do on the rivers, plus since you can't run them at night, you miss out on some great night life and fireworks. Just my 2 cents.
My Brother in Law has 2 up on Chataqua and we do have fun with them, but given the choice between PWCs and a boat, boat any day.
Don't be intimidated and think you have to start small, they are not that difficult to manage. I am relatively new at it and we have had very few issues.
Ive had both PWC and boats. I agree with the others...don't be afraid to get a small boat , really quite easy to handle. The great thing a pwc is that the are easy to launch by yourself.
In PA, you must have your boater certificate. Along with the homepage with helpful links on the left to read thru...
These are the regs specific to PWC in PA. http://fishandboat.com/boatcrs/03boa...ap4_01_pwc.htm
From that link, you can get to other info about boating in PA.
Jetskis are fun, but if you want to include any friends/family, you are out of luck. For what they cost, boats are more practicle.
Help finding super basic information
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