Gas prices continue to rise, affecting nearly every industry in America.
As for boats, Indian Point Marina in Branson says people are still getting out in the water.
“Gasoline prices are definitely the highest on the water in my eight years working here.” said Kinsey Stephens. “I think people are definitely trying to get their timing on the water right now with the fear that things will go uphill.”
Stephens says some people who travel to the area are surprised when they arrive at the pump.
“We actually have a lot of people, especially our locals, who are just people who come from out of state, especially up north.” Stephens said. “They are actually quite relieved. I think they mentally prepared for much higher gas prices than what we have now.
Back in Springfield, Fellows Lake, some boaters are still at full speed, just for less areas.
“I still go out a lot. I just go to different places. I can be here within 30 minutes compared to last year. I was going to Palm and Stockton, you know, every time. says Travis Toombs.
“I used to pass through here during the week after work and go north at the weekend. But more, I go up north on weekends maybe, I don’t know, on holidays or something,” Toombs added.
Some lakeside choose to rent a boat these days.
“We don’t have much time to spend on the lake. So, you know, if we have to keep a boat all year round, it doesn’t make much sense to us. said Chad Dunkel.
“So we go out a few weekends a year and gas is free if you come here to the marina.” said Dunkel.
For others like Sham Duskin, who came to the lake from Buffalo, Missouri, just getting to the lake can be expensive on fuel.
“If you go back about three years ago, we could have done it on a monthly basis, or even twice a month. But with gas prices, it definitely takes some of it. Duskin said.
Duskin says today’s trip was a Father’s Day gift.
“It’s top of the list. I’ve been bugging my wife and kids all day about it, so I really wasn’t expecting it. But yeah, it’s a great Father’s Day gift Duskin added.
Officials say the Biden administration is considering a gasoline tax exemption to help lower fuel prices.
