While I've only boated Winni once this year, I am beginning my 20th year of boating nearby on Ossipee Lake. Whatever is trending boating down on Winni is also apparent on Ossipee.
The marina where I keep my boat has had a waiting list for years. This year, like last, there are a number of slips remaining open for the season.
Boating traffic is down considerably on the lake, and those that venture out appear to be spending much more time rafting and much less time with water sports or cruising.
Ossipee has avoided much of the negative publicity afforded the big Lake, so I don't believe that is a primary factor. I truly believe that the downturn in economy the past several years is the driving force manifesting itself in a downturn in boating.
Likewise a number of area campgrounds around the lake, enjoying record populations and long waiting list for a number of years, find themselves with open sites and significant numbers of units for sale.
Furthermore, I can just about walk the length of the lake from adjacent Route 16 by walking on "FOR SALE" real estate signs and never touch the ground!
I truly sympathize with the campground & marina operators and will miss some of the folks selling their cottages, but I am enjoying the peace & tranquility this current economic downturn is bringing to the region. Maybe we all are in the mood for for a quiter pace of yesteryear, no matter how short that respite mayt be!
