Ways To Save Gas On The Water

Rising gas prices are here to stay, at least for now. This summer, some boaters could have trouble staying afloat. But, as NewsOn6.com's Nicole Wiseman reports, gas prices don't have to sink your boating budget.

At Cross Timbers at Skiatook Lake, dozens of boaters hit the water every day. Right now boat gas prices are at $4.09 per gallon. Depending on the size of your boat, it will cost you anywhere from $200 to more than $1,500 to fill up you tank.

Gas prices are higher on the water than on land. The price on the water is based on the cost for transportation to get it there and on the special equipment it takes to maintain the safety of the water.

Spending the day on the lake is one way many of you will enjoy the warmer temperatures. Just like cars, the money it takes to gas up your boat can add up fast. Believe it or not, there are simple things you can do to help avoid breaking the bank.

For starters, buy a smaller boat. However, if you need the extra space, take a look around inside your boat and clean it out. Extra weight lowers fuel efficiency. So, only take with you, what you need.

Also, keep your boats clean. Any debris that collects on the bottom or on the sides will slow you down.

Painting the bottom of your boat helps too. It makes it easier for your boat to move through the water.

Another tip, fill your tank up with only as much fuel as you need. This keeps weight down and fuel efficiency high.

Tune your boat.

The biggest mistake some of you are caught making actually involves the way you're driving your boat. Experts say you should not throttle beyond three-quarters.

There are lots of other tips you can use to make your gas last longer. Watch the Web Extra video to learn more.

By Nicole Wiseman, NewsOn6.com and Kyle Dierking, Video Journalist.