How can we take the pontoon out on its maiden voyage on Saturday if it's only going to be 76 degrees F?

How windy? That would be the deciding factor. If it’s too windy, the tent and blankets will blow away anyhow.

Temp itself isn’t awful, except it will be cooler on the water anyway.

Dress for it.Bring extra jackets,hats,etc. I have taken the boat in my avatar out right after the water unfroze.I doubt I’d set a tent up or anything that can get in the way in case of an emergency.
We always had extra blankets on board our other boat or people could go below deck if they wanted to get out of the elements.

Suck it up.
When did 76 F represent cold?

That’s ideal lake weather.
did you mean 56?

You could always make an open fire atop the boat.

Can you water ski behind in a snow suit?

Asking for a friend. ;>)

We would water ski in 50 * F water in early May in Connecticut at the ocean, air temp was 60* F.

I have to say. 76, sounds ideal. If it’s a pontoon boat, it can’t go that fast anyways. It’s made for cruising. I doubt it can go mph.

If you’re going to fish. I’d fish on the bottom. Get you some catfish! It’s really too late, to beat the banks. If it’s sunny, it’ll be warm, when you’re sitting still.

If you have a depth finder, which you should, find a hole, anchor, and drop out as many poles as you have. Worms, would probably be best.

The water is likely still warmer than the air. And the alligators, are about to start slowing down. You could also fish for Crappie, but that takes more skill. Mainly fishing at different depths, throughout the day. But Crappie, are tastier.

I think blankets, are a bit much. Windbreakers, and long pants, if you’re easily susceptible, to colder temperatures.

No fishing, no swimming, just cruising.
I guess we’ll find out.
It’s a pontoon boat @lucillelucillelucille. There is no “below decks.”

@Dutchess,-Yes I am aware of that.I am well aware of what pontoons are. My sister has one.I see them everywhere where I live.
I simply volunteered my long experience with boating and what we would do.
Apparently, you didn’t like that.

Here in Kansas it’s not really boating weather until it hits 90 – 100. I just HATE HATE HATE being cold.
I guess we’ll figure out what everyone decides to do. The kids would probably love it no matter what. They don’t feel the cold I don’t think.

@Dutchess_III – I am in a northern state, surrounded by water ;) The water temp where I am right now is in the 60’s. It takes awhile for water to warm up or cool down.Around 76 or so is best for swimming,IMO This being October,I don’t see swimmers but see plenty of boats of all types still.
Just bring warm clothes to layer and you will be good.As for kids, nothing wrong with Spiderman face masks.:)