Labor Day Weekend Marks Fewer Boating Incidents, But Sadly a Rise in Fatalities

Labor Day Weekend is a time of fun and family lake time for many people, and this year's holiday weekend was no exception. Texas Game Wardens were out in full force over the 2025 Labor Day weekend earlier this month. They patrolled lakes, rivers, and coastal waters across the state.

We were fortunate in Texarkana and the East Texas area, but other parts of the state had sad news to report. The good news is that there were fewer boating incidents this year, but sadly, fatalities increased.

From Friday, August 29 to Monday, September 1, Texas Game Wardens responded to seven boating incidents, two boating-related fatalities, and made seven arrests for boating while intoxicated. No open-water drownings were reported. In 2024, the holiday weekend saw nine boating incidents, one fatality, and one drowning.

This year’s two fatalities happened on Lake Buchanan and Lake Conroe. Last year’s fatality occurred at Amistad Reservoir.

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Col. Ron VanderRoest, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department law enforcement director, said in a press release,

We are saddened by the lives lost over the holiday weekend.  Our wardens work tirelessly to prevent tragedies, but these incidents reinforce that safety on the water is a partnership.

Safety First

Labor Day Weekend marks the unofficial end of summer and boating season. But for many, boating is a year-round activity with fishing.  Please always remember that safety should be your priority. Wearing life jackets, driving your boat at safe speeds, staying sober, and following the Texas Water Safety Act saves lives.

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The holiday weekend was also the opening weekend of dove season, keeping wardens busy on both the water and in the field.

You can report violations if and when you see them. Violations on boating, fishing and hunting.

To report dangerous or illegal activity, use Operation Game Thief (OGT):

Text: TXOGT + your tip to 847411

App: Texas OGT (iOS & Android)

Call: 800-792-GAME (4263)

For emergencies, always call 911.