5 Reasons Why Labor Day Isn’t the End of Summer Boating

5 Reasons Why Labor Day Isn’t the End of Summer Boating

Labor Day is just around the corner and traditionally it marks the unofficial end of summer for some areas in the country - kids are returning to school and family vacations are coming to an end. However this long-established belief doesn’t mean the boating season is over. Fortunately, in recent years we’ve discovered the month of September is perfect in so many ways. There's still plenty of opportunity for warm-weather cruises and beautiful sunny boating weekends through September and weather-willing even into October. 

Here are just a few reasons why post-Labor Day boating is our favorite. 

Weather is [Sometimes] More Enjoyable

Temperatures around the country come September are much milder, still warm but less humid. Those in the southern states get a break from the blistering hot days and the northern states get those perfect 75 degree days. Looking back at September 2021, the weather in Minneapolis, MN, had an average temperature of 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Making 80% of the month (24 days) with temps in the 70’s & 80’s. Similarly, the first 10 days of October also had an average temperature of 71.4 degrees. Additionally, nationwide, thunderstorms are less common beginning September. (Weather stats are according to Timeanddate.com)

Less Crowded 

Since most people traditionally considered Labor Day the last good boating weekend of the summer the waterways are significantly less crowded. There’s no longer a line at the boat launch and there’s finally space at the dockside restaurant that you circled so many times all summer looking for a slip. You can also spend more relaxing days on the water listening to the sweet sounds of birds chirping rather than blaring loud music and revving engines. 

Spectacular Scenery

The northern regions of the country may begin to cool down but the trees begin to change colors within weeks after Labor Day. While non-boaters pack the highways to go leaf peeping, you’ll have the most unobstructed viewing spots. There is just something special about cruising along the shoreline amongst the thick rich orange, red and yellow trees. Even better, the calm water can reflect the beautiful foliage, making for the most Instagram worthy photos. Additionally, the season's earlier nightfall allows you to experience stargazing in that crisp, clean fall air. 

Fishing Fun

Just as the birds are beginning to migrate, the fish are too. Specifically, baitfish are on the move and biting - meaning the bigger fish that feed on them will follow. There’s a reason most fishing tournaments are this time of year! 

Boaters Ed

The quieter waterways make this time of year an excellent time to practice your boating skills, especially docking. Most of the stress and anxiety associated with boating involves departing from and returning to the dock or boat launch, after all you don’t want to end up featured on The Qualified Captain’s page.

F. Scott Fitzgerald perhaps said it best when he noted, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.”