Ugly John’s Custom Boats

Arkansas sets operating ages rather than a rental age, and they depend on the craft. A motorboat powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more may be operated at 12 or older; a younger operator must be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18. For a personal watercraft, an operator must be 16 or older, or 12 to 15 under the direct supervision of someone at least 18, or under 12 under the direct supervision of someone at least 21. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, must complete an approved AGFC boating education course. The rental operator sets its own minimum age, so confirm it when booking.

Source: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (agfc.com)

Yes, many recreational operators need an Arkansas boater education card rather than a separate boating license. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986 must complete an approved Arkansas Game and Fish Commission course and carry proof to operate a motorboat, sailboat or personal watercraft. For boats of 10 horsepower or more, operators under 12 require direct supervision by someone at least 18. On personal watercraft, ages 12 to 15 require supervision by someone at least 18; younger children require someone at least 21. There is no blanket rental exemption, and rental personal watercraft cannot be leased to anyone under 18. AGFC accepts approved out-of-state cards and lists online courses offering immediate certification after passing.

Source: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (agfc.com)

Go boating on Beaver Lake, the main day boating water reached from Rogers. Prairie Creek has a public launch and marina beside broad central lake water, while Rocky Branch offers another ramp and marina along a more indented shoreline. Monte Ne’s public ramp enters the narrower Monte Ne Branch, a good choice for exploring a tucked in arm rather than starting on open water. Horseshoe Bend also has a launch and marina on a long, cove lined arm. These areas all connect through Beaver Lake, so you can move between branches and the main reservoir without trailering again.

Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock District (swl.usace.army.mil)

Boaters leaving Rogers head onto Beaver Lake for day trips to Prairie Creek, Horseshoe Bend and Lost Bridge North. Prairie Creek works well for a family shore break, with picnic areas, a playground and swimming; Horseshoe Bend draws crews for swimming, scuba diving and sightseeing; and Lost Bridge North offers a scenic pause near limestone bluffs and natural caves, with swimming and picnicking available. All three are developed recreation areas on Beaver Lake, making them practical named stops during a day afloat.

Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers listings on Recreation.gov (recreation.gov)