Wakeboarding for Beginners

Finding Rides

Synopsis: You can't go wakeboarding by yourself! If you're having trouble scraping a crew together, we have some tips for you to try to get hooked up with a crew.. and get that all-important return invite.

Maybe someday in the future someone will invent an autonomous wakeboard boat, but until then you still need at least a few buddies or you won't be doing much wakeboarding. It's not that hard to find someone to wakeboard with once you know where to look. And that's why you're here: to find out where to look.

Note: Although it is possible to wakeboard with only two people (a driver and a rider) it is illegal in most states. And it is unsafe in all states. You should never wakeboard without a spotter.

Let's cover the most obvious place first: your lake. If there's already an active wakeboarding scene, just ask someone if they'd be willing to give you a pull sometime. It's as simple as that. Most people will be happy to let you join them (wakeboarders are generally cool people, after all). Be sure to do your part, be courteous, and don't be a leech! There's nothing worse than a bad boat guest.

So what if you don't know anyone on your lake? Well, no problem. Wakeboarding is a great way to meet people. Boaters are one of the nicest, most accepting groups I've ever encountered. If you don't believe me, try waving to other (random) boaters. Chances are good that they'll smile and wave back. Try this on the street and you're likely to get weird looks and obscene gestures.

What I'm trying to say is, don't be afraid to talk to other boaters. They don't bite. What's the worst that can happen?

If there isn't already an established wakeboarding crowd, you'll have to take more drastic measures. If you already have a boat, this will be a lot easier.

Recruit coworkers, classmates, and friends. Most people would be delighted to spend an afternoon on the lake. It's a special privilege for them. Bonus points if they have boating experience. Then you won't have to spend the day showing them the ropes. Chances are you'll eventually find someone who you will become a regular boarding buddy.

If you don't want to go through that trial and error process, there's another option that many people overlook. The Internet.

There are many wakeboarding communities online. You already know of at least one. In our forums, you can find other wakeboarders in your area. You can also check out other sites (WakeWorld is a good place to start). Most of the time you'll find someone near you who would be more than happy to give you a pull!

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