SBSO Recreation Patrol

Boat Patrol

Patrolling our Waters

The Sheboygan County Sheriff's Department operates and maintains two boats for patrol of the county's inland waters and Lake Michigan. The primary objective of the boat patrol is to promote water safety. The Boat Patrol is responsible for enforcing state and local regulations and investigation of boating accidents.

The State of Wisconsin, through WI-DNR grants, funds approximately sixty percent of patrol costs. Both boats are supplied and serviced by local businesses. The boat patrol consists of twenty specially trained members, responsible for patrol and maintenance of the boats. Deputies patrol all navigable waterway in the county. Some of the waters include Lake Michigan, Random Lake, Crystal Lake, Crooked Lake, Lake Ellen, and the Sheboygan River.

Seeing a growth in recreation and commercial boating in the Sheboygan area, the sheriff's department strives to ensure all waters are safe and enjoyable for all.

In 1996, the department purchased a 16 foot Smoker Craft patrol boat. Outfitted with a 50 hp Mercury motor, this vessel is used mostly in patrol of inland waters.

In 2000, the United States Coast Guard donated a 22 foot Boston Whaler patrol boat to the department. Several boat patrol members reconditioned the vessel, bringing it up to operational standards. Outfitted with twin 90hp Mercury motors and specialized equipment to assist boaters in distress, the boat is used to patrol Lake Michigan.

Either of the department's boats can be seen on the water throughout the summer season, looking to promote safety and public service.

If you have any questions about the boat patrols in Sheboygan County, please contact Sgt. Jason Liermann at (920) 459-3112.