We are so excited to have you on the water! To make sure your paddle is as relaxing as possible, here is everything you need to know before you arrive at the launch.
Where to Meet Us: We’ll be waiting for you at the DEC Middle Lake Boat Launch on Glasgow Rd. Park in the public lot. Aim to arrive 15 minutes early to get fitted for your life jacket. We use the dedicated kayak slip to launch.
What to Wear & Pack
Footwear: Wear shoes that can get wet. Sandals with straps or water shoes are best.
Stay Dry: We have dry bags for your keys and phone available for rent if you don’t have one, but we recommend leaving valuables in your car.
Stay hydrated: There are storage compartments and cup holders built into the kayaks. You can also bring a cooler or rent one of ours if you want to keep your drinks cold.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen. Even on cloudy days, the reflection off the water is strong. Wear a hat, sunglasses and clothing with UV protection.
Life Jacket: Coast Guard Approved Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) are included with every rental. Please remember to add the size you need for no cost in your cart before you check out. You are free to bring your own life jacket if you prefer but we can not legally allow you to leave the launch without a properly fitted life jacket. Please see the NY State Laws below.
NY State Year-Round Life Jacket Rules
- Children: All children under the age of 12 must wear a securely fastened life jacket at all times while on any vessel less than 65 feet in length.
- Adults (May 2-Oct 31): While not legally required to be worn by adults during the warmer months, you are still legally required to have one wearable, properly sized USCG-approved PFD on board for every person. We strongly recommend wearing it regardless of the season.
The Cold Water Wear Law (November 1 - May 1)
New York State law requires that everyone on board a vessel less than 21 feet in length - including all kayaks, canoes and rowboats - must wear a securely fastened USCG-approved life jacket between November 1st and May 1st. During these months, it isn’t enough to just have it in the boat; it must be worn at all times while underway to protect against the immediate risks of cold-water immersion.
Essential Gear Checklist: Beyond your life jacket, NYS law requires all paddlecraft to carry:
- Sound-Producing Device: A whistle or horn to signal other boaters in low visibility
- White Light: If you are out after sunset or before sunrise, you must have a waterproof flashlight or lantern to prevent collisions.
Respecting the Peace: One of the reasons people love Cassadaga is the quiet.
- Give Wildlife Space: If you see a nesting bird or a turtle, keep a respectful distance
- Sound Travels: Voices carry a long way over still water. Keeping it down helps everyone enjoy the “wild” feel of the lake.
- Leave No Trace: Please secure any snack wrappers or water bottles so they don’t blow overboard. To keep the lakes pristine, we practice a strict Carry-In, Carry-Out policy for all trash.
- Respect the Preserve: When paddling near the Cassadaga Lakes Nature Park, please stay on the water or designated trails. This land is a critical habitat for the wildlife you are here to see.
For Wildlife Viewing: The best viewing is usually in the Upper Lake and Middle Lake. Because this area is bordered by the Cassadaga Nature Park’s undeveloped wetlands, animals feel much safer and are more likely to stay visible as you glide past.
Need Help on the Water? If you get turned around or have an issue with your gear, just give us a call. We’re always nearby! 716-359-7138