WACO, Texas — Boating season is about to "ramp" up as the Army Corps of Engineers opens several Lake Waco boat ramps for the first time this season and the 4th of July holiday is expected to bring out boaters.
But Central Texans won't be alone on the water. Texas Game Warden Dustin Delgado has been working Central Texas waterways for about seven years.
"As a kid growing up, I'm a second generation game warden, so seeing my dad do this work and provide public service for folks here in McLennan County drove me to continue that," said Delgado.
Delgado took 6 News on a ride-a-long on the Brazos River. There wasn't a lot of boat traffic but there were plenty of people fishing from the riverbank.
"We drove from the Dallas area and are spending some time at the lake fishing," said Jessica Phillips. "(My husband) fishes and I read."
Jessica likes the sun and her husband Dan enjoys the shade after setting up his fishing line.
"My goal is to try to catch some catfish or some bass," Dan Phillips said. "Whatever is out here biting."
Both Dan and Jessica prefer the peace and quiet of the area.
"We are here enjoying the peace before the crazy that may be the 4th of July weekend," said Jessica Phillips.
Delgado says with the Twin Bridges and Speegleville boat ramps being opened over the weekend by the Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Waco is expected to be busy.
Along with the McLennan County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit, the Texas Game Warden boats will be in the water, on patrol, to prevent problems.
"Ultimately we want folks to have a plan, stay hydrated but also designate a sober driver," said Delgado.
Boating while intoxicated carries the same penalties as driving while intoxicated. Delgado says know the rules before you head out.
"Life jackets are required," Delgado told 6 News. "Each person on the vessel is required to have a wearable life jacket. Anyone under 13 years old is required to wear that life jacket while the vessel is underway."
"We like to see our folks here in Waco enjoy the water, whether it's boating, kayaking, fishing...we're out here to keep those folks safe," Delgado said.
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