As the summer season begins to heat up, many Oklahoma residents are looking forward to spending some time on the water. One popular watercraft that Oklahoma residents enjoy using is the kayak. Recently, many kayakers have been wondering whether registration is required for a kayak with a trolling motor in Oklahoma.
The short answer is yes, registration is required for a kayak with a trolling motor in Oklahoma.
According to Oklahoma law, all motorboats, including those with electric trolling motors, must be registered with the Oklahoma Tax Commission. This registration must be renewed every three years and requires a fee that is based on the length of the watercraft.
While paddled kayaks and canoes are exempt from registration in Oklahoma, the moment you attach a trolling motor to your kayak, it becomes a motorized vessel and falls under the same registration requirements as larger powerboats. It’s important to keep in mind that registering your kayak with a trolling motor not only ensures that you follow the law, but it can also help protect you in the event of an accident or theft.
Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to any other boating regulations that may apply when using a kayak with a trolling motor. For example, operating a motorized vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in Oklahoma. It’s also critical to ensure that you have all the necessary safety equipment on board, including personal flotation devices.
If you plan to use a kayak with a trolling motor in Oklahoma, be sure to register it with the Oklahoma Tax Commission and learn the various boating regulations that apply to ensure a safe and legal boating experience. Happy kayaking!