Personal Watercraft (Jetskis)

El Capitan is the only lake in San Diego County that allows the use of personal watercraft, such as jetskis and waverunners. One arm of the lake is dedicated to the use of these vessels.

Days of operation for personal watercraft are normally Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, sunrise to sunset, from May through October. From November through April personal watercraft are permitted on Saturdays and Sundays only. See "What's New" page for current schedule.

Since personal watercraft are classified as Class A inboard vessels, operators must follow the same rules of operation which govern all boats in any particular waterway. In addition, all local rules and regulations must be observed at all times.

All personal watercraft (PWC) must have the following Coast Guard approved safety equipment in good working condition: All operators and passengers must wear a type I, II or III personal flotation device when operating on any City lake. All operators must carry a fully charged type B-1 or equivalent fire extinguisher that is readily accessible.

All PWC must be properly muffled at all times to meet State and local noise requirements.
The maximum speed limit is 35 mph and restricted to the PWC operating area.
The general direction of all vessels is counterclockwise.
The required age for operating a PWC is 16 years or older.
All PWC are required to clearly display permanently affixed approved registration numbers on vessel and carry their certificate of number on board.
California boating law, local rules and common boating courtesy must be observed at all times.

All patrons must purchase a daily use permit which is non-transferrable. Adult permits are $5.00 & youth permits (8-15 years) are $2.50.

Also needed is a private boat use permit for each personal watercraft which is $5.00. All permits may be purchased at the reservoir.

The number of personal watercraft allowed on the lake at any one time is determined by how safe lake personnel feel it is. Three person personal watercraft can tow a skier, wakeboarder, or inflatable in the ski zone only.