Welcome to the Tuscola County Sheriff's Marine Patrol Website. This site has been designed to acquaint you with our Marine Patrol and the services available to the boating community in the county. We are the division within the Sheriff's Department charged with the responsibility of upholding the laws and providing public safety on the waterways and adjacent shoreline areas of Tuscola County, Michigan.
We have four part time Deputies within the Marine Patrol Department that is funded by a grant which runs January through September. Our fleet is comprised of a 24' Aqua Sport, a 17' Lund, and a 14' Aluminum Sea Nymph. The Aqua Sport is stationed in Quanicassee, and the 14' boat is stored at the Sheriff's Department. They are ready to be launched in any inland lake, river, or pond if the need arises. Besides patrolling the waters of Lake Huron, our officers conduct safety inspections, livery inspections, and an annual Boater Safety Class in the spring.
Rules and Regulations
Boater Safety Certificate, Age, and Operator Restrictions
Handbook of Michigan Boating Laws and Responsibilities
Kayak Safety
- • Check the weather for the area you will be kayaking in. Be aware of weather conditions, wind direction, and water temperature. Prepare for changes in weather and the possibility of capsizing. If paddling in cold water, a wet suit or dry suit can keep you warm and comfortable.
- • Beware of off-shore winds that make it difficult to return to shore.
- • Always follow the boating rules of the area you’re in. Give boats plenty of room. Do not expect them to maneuver around you. Kayaks and boats many times share launch sites or access to lakes.
- • Never mix alcohol or drugs with boating.
- • Never exceed the weight capacity of your boat and always check your equipment for wear and tear before you paddle.
- • Seek qualified instruction to learn proper paddling techniques, water safety and basic first aid.
- • Brush up on self-rescue first in calm, warm, shallow water and again in more extreme conditions.
- • Most importantly WEAR YOUR PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE. Coast Guard regulations require that all kayaks have a lifejacket on board. Wearing your lifejacket will help keep your head above water and add insulation to your body, keeping you warmer in cold water. There are great PFDs designed specifically for paddlers. Buy one that fits well, and always wear it while you paddle.
- • Tell someone your paddle plan, which includes: where you are going, what you will be doing, how long you expect to be gone and how many people are in your party…then stick to your plan.
- • Stay hydrated. Always bring plenty of water and food.
- • Charge cellular device before heading out. Keep it dry and accessible. If you are going out for an extended length of time, a power pack is also recommended. There are wet bags specifically for cell phones that can be clipped to yourself or your kayak.
- • Know your personal limits. If you start struggling, get to the nearest shoreline, or area of low water.
- • Many launch sites have signs with important information and reminders pertaining to that specific area. Read the signs / heed the warnings!!