Each summer, millions of families enjoy lakes, rivers, and oceans across America. Here in Missouri’s 3rd Congressional district, we are lucky to be the home of a number of beautiful lakes, rivers and streams, including the Lake of the Ozarks. Voted the best recreational lake in the United States two years in a row, the lake provides a great place for boating and fishing right here in our district.

Like so many Missouri families we have great memories at the lake. Whether you are going for a swim, fishing in a cove, or enjoying one of the many lakeside restaurants there is nothing quite like a day on the lake. Now, as any grandparent can attest, when we’re lucky enough to all get down there our five grandchildren steal the show. I cherish these summer weekends spent with family, and I know many of you do too. 

Congressman Luetkemeyer's family enjoying a day on the lake.

This week is National Fishing and Boating Week, a time to highlight the great recreational opportunities right here in our district. With more than 170,000 fishermen visiting each year our lakes, rivers and streams not only provide a great place to make summer memories, they are also a boon to our local economy. According to data from the American Sportfishing Association, fishing in our district supports more than a thousand jobs and injects more than $100 million annually into our local economy, while tourism related spending injects more than $200 million annually.

As you head out to the water and cool off from the summer heat, I hope you enjoy the many great opportunities to swim, boat, fish, water ski, tube or simply lay back and relax. But don’t forget, safety first! It only takes a few seconds to turn a beautiful day into a living nightmare. Sadly, too many families learn that horrible lesson each year.  For more information on recreational boating safety please visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website at USCGBoating.org.

In honor of National Fishing and Boating Week, I hope you can enjoy some of America’s favorite pastimes and spend time with your loved ones. As the summer boating and fishing season kicks off, have a fun and safe summer! I look forward to seeing many of you at the lake! 

Congressman Luetkemeyer's family enjoying a day on the lake.