If you’ve spent any time on Okanagan Lake this summer, you’ve likely noticed the same thing we have; water levels are exceptionally low. In fact, we’re experiencing one of the lowest lake level years in recent memory.
Naturally, many boat owners are concerned. We’ve received countless calls from customers wondering if they need a new boat lift, an anchor buoy, or expensive modifications just to keep boating this season.
Before making a rushed decision, take a moment to understand what may actually be causing the problem.
Every Boat Lift Is Different… So Is Every Boat
One of the biggest misconceptions we’re hearing is that one manufacturer’s boat lift will always operate in shallower water than another.
The reality is much more complex.
How shallow a boat lift can operate depends on several factors, including:
- Your boat’s hull design
- Draft (how deep your boat sits in the water)
- Propeller and skeg clearance
- Bunk positioning and width
- Riser height
- Water depth at your specific property
In many cases, a properly adjusted lift can perform significantly better than one that has simply been installed and never optimized.
Before Replacing Your Lift, Check These Items
1. Review Your Bunk Position
The bunks support your boat and play a major role in how low it can safely sit on the lift.
Adjusting the bunks to a wider position may allow the boat to sit lower, helping in shallow water conditions.
However, this must be done correctly. Always ensure:
- The propeller and skeg have adequate clearance.
- The boat bottom does not contact the lifting beam.
- The boat remains properly supported across the hull.
- The weight is evenly distributed.
Every boat is different, which is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all setup.
2. Check Your Riser Height
Many boats sit higher above the lifting beam than necessary.
If your bunks have already been optimized and there is still plenty of clearance between the bottom of your boat and the lifting beam, shortening the risers may allow your boat to sit lower while maintaining safe operation. A simple adjustment like this can sometimes make a significant difference during low water conditions.
3. Make Sure Your Lift Is Properly Set Up
We’ve inspected many lifts over the years that were never adjusted correctly after installation.
Sometimes, a few simple changes to the bunk configuration or lift setup are all that’s needed to improve shallow-water performance.
How Shallow Can a Shoreline Boat Lift Operate?
This is one of the questions we get asked most often.
The honest answer is:
It depends on your boat and how the lift is set up.
With the proper configuration, some of our boat lifts are capable of operating in as little as 8 inches of water beneath the lift structure. Of course, larger boats with deeper drafts require more water than smaller runabouts or pontoons, which is why we evaluate each installation individually.
Don’t Make a Decision You’ll Regret
This year is unusual.
It’s understandable that many boat owners are feeling pressure to find a quick solution. But before replacing your boat lift or investing in costly modifications, make sure you’ve explored all of your options. A few adjustments today could save you thousands of dollars while extending your boating season.
We’re Here to Help
Modern boat lifts offer a range of features that improve convenience, safety, and protection.
At Shoreline Pile Driving, we’ve been helping Okanagan boat owners for decades, and we understand the unique challenges that changing lake levels create.
If you’re unsure whether your lift is set up correctly, we’d be happy to take a look.
Simply email:
- A few photos of your boat sitting on the lift
- Current water depth under the lift.
- Approximate clearance between the cradle and lake bottom.
to service@shorelinepiledriving.com, along with your name, property address, and boat model.
Photos are helpful, but measurements are even better. The goal is to maximize your lift’s travel while keeping your equipment operating safely.
Our team is happy to review your setup and provide recommendations on:
- Bunk positioning and width
- Propeller and skeg clearance
- Riser height
- Lift adjustments that may allow your boat to sit lower
- Tips to help extend your boating season during these unusually low lake levels
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for weekly updates on Okanagan Lake levels during peak season, or check our Water Levels tab on our website for daily details.
Our goal is simple: help you get the most out of your existing boat lift before recommending major modifications or a replacement.
Every property is different. Every boat is different. That’s why we believe the best solution starts with good advice, not a rushed decision.
If we can help keep you boating with a few simple adjustments, we’ll tell you. If a larger solution is needed, we’ll explain why and work with you to find the best option.
At Shoreline, we’re always here to help and support our customers whenever they need us.
