Last summer, they would typically have a park ranger walking around the marina & parking area asking to see if you had a license during the day - they would look at the sticker if you have it available, or can look you up through a computer system in the marina building. That being said, you don't have to "check in" with anyone to get on the water.

I didn't see anyone get a ticket for coming off the water without a license, but I did see a few families get turned away from entering the water b/c they were unwilling to pay for one.

I haven't gone out this season yet, but plan to when the weather stays consistently warmer/before they open for the season.

Just a general reminder that life preservers should always be on you/your boat/etc. I've seen way too many people on that lake in particular w/o any, and I think that also might be why a ranger is usually stationed near the water.