Boats in rows

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Lile
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Columbus AFB has many large rivers and lakes in the surrounding area, making it the perfect location to get out on the water and involved in recreational boating. Whether you just want to lay out in the sunshine, bass fish or ski, Outdoor Recreation can rent you want you need and get you out there.

"We don't take reservations on anything but the pontoon boats," said Rob Wilburn, Director of Outdoor Recreation and 14th Force Support Squadron Flight Chief of Community Support.
"In the summer we have just about every kind of boat rented and out on the local lakes and rivers. We have bass, pontoon, john boats and kayaks and canoes. Just about anything you need for being on the water."

Outdoor Recreation does everything in their power to make sure getting out of the water is as simple and easy as possible for Airmen.

"We provide life-vests, paddles, trailers and all of the necessary things with rentals," said Wilburn. "When you leave our building you can go down to the water and launch it. Just make sure you have enough gas."

Most people enjoy boating in the spring or summer time, but boating can be enjoyed year around. Especially with the constantly changing weather around Columbus AFB.

"Usually you always want sunshine when you're out on the water," said Donald Barksdale, General Manager of The Boat Gallery in Columbus MS. "I don't care if you're sun-bathing, skiing or fishing that sunshine is great. When it gets into the 60's or 70's its really nice."

Outdoor recreation is perfect for Airmen who want to get out on the water every now and then, but if you want to get serious about boating or purchasing a boat there are some great opportunities in the local area.

"There are boat shows that start in February," said Barksdale. "We usually take about 25 boats to a show and have them up on display to sell. If you want to buy any kind of boat that is an excellent time to get one."

Whatever an Airman's reason is for wanting to get outdoors and enjoy the water, boating is a great way to go. Whether with you are fishing with friends or going out with the whole family, getting out on a boat is always a good time.

"Around here people really like getting into boating because it's such a great family sport," said Barksdale. "You can get out there with one of the new versatile boats and you can ski, fish or lay across the deck and sun-bath, which is perfect for the whole family."