Lake Travis: Hidden Dangers This Labor Day

Unseen Hazards Emerge as Lake Travis Water Levels Drop

As evening fell, the Johnson family was wrapping up a day on Lake Travis when their boat jolted to a stop, hitting a submerged concrete dock block. With water levels dropping nearly 40 feet below full pool, the lake’s once-hidden hazards are now surfacing, catching even experienced boaters off guard.

Lake Travis, currently only 47.4% full due to a severe drought, is at its lowest since 2011. Recent rains have provided minimal relief, and submerged dangers like stumps and rocks are emerging, turning navigable waters into obstacle courses.

In one incident last month, a father wakeboarding with his kids ran aground in an area previously considered safe. The boat’s abrupt halt turned a fun day into a frightening experience, highlighting the shifting underwater terrain caused by low water levels.

Boaters' lack of awareness and preparation exacerbates the situation. Few have essential equipment like VHFs or depth finders, relying instead on unreliable cell signals. As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Lower Colorado River Authority warns boaters to slow down, stay in channel centers, and be cautious near the shore.

Lake Travis, a popular destination 30 minutes from Austin, requires extra vigilance this year. Plan trips safely, avoid unfamiliar areas, and keep speeds low. Save alcohol for shore celebrations, and consider having an alcohol-free day to ensure safe navigation. In 2023, Texas Parks & Wildlife reported five alcohol-related incidents on lakes and one alcohol-related death.

The allure of a holiday weekend on Lake Travis is strong, but so is the responsibility to keep loved ones safe. With lower water and greater dangers, vigilance is crucial.

Captain Skylar Smith is the owner of TowBoatUS Lake Travis, providing professional on-water towing, battery jumpstart, vessel ungrounding, and fuel drop-off services to boaters in need.