‘This is not a time for boating’: Mayor urges people to stay off lakes

A flooded road in Bracebridge, Ont. in April 2026. (CTV News Rob Cooper)

Many are eager to get an early start on boating season but officials are asking residents to reign it in, be patient and wait a little while longer.

In an update on flooding conditions posted to social media, Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney is telling people to stay off the water.

While the forecast is looking good with a slight reprieve from rain and things beginning to improve in rural areas, conditions can change quickly.

“We’ve had some concern. This is not a time for boating on our river system or our lake system,” says Maloney.

The reason being is boats create wake, which breaches the sandbags systems that people have put around their property, causing them some challenges, according to the Town of Bracebridge.

Maloney says the water is currently contaminated with all sorts of debris and being out on the water in a boat can be extremely dangerous during times like this.

“Let the system work its way through,” Maloney adds. “Stay off the lake.”

Maloney is also recommending people check in on those who are vulnerable.

The Bracebridge Fire Department spent Sunday checking in on homes in flooded areas, ensuring homeowners are safe and have everything they need.