Two Thousand Witches Paddle Into a Coast Guard Traffic Shutdown
Published Date: 10/16/2026
Rule
Summary
On October 25, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Coast Guard will temporarily close parts of Lake Havasu’s Bridgewater Channel for the big Witch Paddle event with about 2,000 paddlers. Only authorized boats can enter the area to keep everyone safe and avoid traffic jams on the water. If you’re boating nearby, plan ahead to avoid delays during this fun but busy day!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Bridgewater Channel Closed to Non‑Participants
If you boat on Lake Havasu, you may not enter, transit, anchor in, or remain in the regulated Bridgewater Channel area between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on October 25, 2026 unless you are specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port San Diego or their designated representative.
Exact Regulated Area Defined
The regulation covers all navigable waters within 100 yards of the paddling event and is defined in the rule as all waters of Lake Havasu encompassed by a line connecting Thompson Bay to the London Bridge in the Bridgewater Channel.
Registered Participants May Use Channel
If you are a person or vessel registered with the event sponsor as a participant, you are considered a participant and are allowed within the regulated area during the event; the paddle is expected to include approximately 2,000 participants on October 25, 2026.
How to Request Entry Permission
If you need permission to enter the regulated area on October 25, 2026 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., you must contact the Captain of the Port San Diego or the COTP's designated representative on VHF‑FM channel 16 or by telephone at (619) 454-9027 to seek authorization.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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