Buyer's Guide / Electric-only lakes
Where to paddle
Electric-Only Lakes: Where Electric Kayaks Can Go and Gas Motors Can't
Across the U.S., many lakes, reservoirs and park waters allow electric motors but ban gas engines. They are often calmer and less crowded, and they are open to an electric kayak.
Here is what "electric only" usually means, real examples from state rules, and how to check before you launch.
The short answer
What "electric only" means
On electric-only waters, gas and other internal combustion engines are banned, but boats powered by an electric motor are allowed. The exact wording varies. Some rules allow any electric motor, some say "electric trolling motor," some set a horsepower limit, and some require no-wake speed.
Real examples
Electric-only rules in four states
| State | What the rule says | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | On 35 listed waters, operators may only use an electric motor of no more than 10 horsepower. | Goldwater Lake, Woods Canyon Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Knoll Lake, Stoneman Lake |
| Ohio | On listed state park waters, the only motorized boats allowed are those propelled by an electric motor at no-wake speed. | Punderson, Lake Hope, Findley, Blue Rock and Tar Hollow State Parks |
| Kentucky | On listed lakes, internal combustion motors are not allowed and only electric trolling motors may be used. | Carter Caves Lake, Bert Combs Lake, Briggs Lake, Fishpond Lake |
| Missouri | On Missouri Department of Conservation areas, only electric motors are permitted on lakes and ponds under 70 acres. | Smaller conservation area lakes and ponds |
Swipe the table sideways on a phone. Summaries of state rules checked October 18, 2026. See the sources below, and confirm current rules with each agency.
How to find them
Finding electric-only water near you
Check your state's rules
Your state fish and wildlife or parks agency publishes boating and motor restrictions, often by lake. Search for "electric motor only" or "no gas motors" with your state's name.
Check park and reservoir pages
City reservoirs, county parks and water districts often set their own rules. Many post them on the park page or at the ramp.
Ask the agency
If the rule says "electric trolling motor" or sets a horsepower or speed limit, ask whether your kayak qualifies before you go.
Look for no-wake zones
Many lakes that allow gas boats also have no-wake areas, coves and arms that are calmer for kayak fishing.
Why electric
The FluxJet on electric-only water
The FluxJet is fully electric: no gas, no oil, no exhaust. You choose your battery from 12V to 60V, set your speed with a throttle dial, and steer with foot pedals. Many electric-only lakes have no ramp, and the FluxJet launches from a beach or bank. You can paddle it too, and we always recommend carrying a paddle.
Before you go, check the rules for your water, and confirm an electric jet drive is allowed where the rule mentions trolling motors.
Questions
Electric-only lakes FAQ
Is an electric kayak allowed on electric-only lakes?
Do I need to register a kayak with an electric motor?
How do I find electric-only lakes near me?
Is the FluxJet electric?
- Arizona: Ariz. Admin. Code R12-4-517
- Ohio: Ohio Admin. Code 1501:47-3-17
- Kentucky: 301 KAR 1:015
- Missouri: 3 CSR 10-11.160
Want to talk it through?
Call the team that builds every FluxJet. We'll give you a straight answer, even when another kayak is the better fit.