Q: Is pre-registration required?

A: No—pre-registration is not required, but preferred.​

 

Q: Why is pre-registration preferred?

A: It helps plan for the event, speeds up check-in, and helps participants not miss event giveaways.

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Q: Is walk-up registration available?

A: Yes—walk-up registration is available beginning at 6:30 PM.

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Q: What payment methods are accepted?

A: Credit/debit card and cash.

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Q: Do Annual Lake Passes or County Passes cover this event?

A: No—admission is separate from regular lake access.

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Q: What will I receive at check-in?

A: Vehicle ribbon and Event information and safety instructions

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Q: Is a light stick required?

A: Yes—every participant is required to have a light stick.

• Why: Light sticks help Lake Lifeguards, event staff, volunteers, and other boaters identify participants and improve visibility during nighttime operations.

• Available: Light sticks are available for purchase from Friends of Castaic Lake at check-in, and participants must have one before participating.

 

Q: What must my boat have?

A: All boats must meet California boating regulations and pass a Lake Lifeguard safety inspection before entering the water.

• Current boat registration.

• One Type III U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (life jacket) of proper size for every person on board.

• A Type IV throwable flotation device (required for boats 16 feet or longer).

• Proper navigation lights (front and back) for nighttime operation.

• A sound-producing device (horn or whistle).

• Required event light stick for each participant (available for purchase from Friends of Castaic Lake at check-in).

• A fire extinguisher if required for your vessel.

 

Q: Will boats be inspected?

A: Yes. Boats may be inspected for required safety equipment, operational safety, and compliance with boating regulations. Any vessel that does not pass the required safety inspection may be denied entry onto the water.

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Q: Do we need life jackets on board?

A: Yes. Every person aboard must have a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket available while aboard the vessel.​

 

Q: Do kids have to wear one?

A: Yes. Children 12 years old and younger must wear a properly fitted and secured life jacket at all times while aboard the vessel.

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Q: What are the key lake rules during the event?

• The speed limit during Moonlight Madness is 5 MPH.

 

• Please obey all posted lake rules and No Wake zones.

 

• For everyone’s safety, maintain a proper lookout at all times.

 

• Operate your vessel carefully due to limited nighttime visibility.

 

• Maintain a safe distance from other vessels, shorelines, docks, and restricted areas.

 

• Follow all directions from Lake Lifeguards, park staff, event staff, and volunteers.

 

• Towing activities are not permitted during Moonlight Madness.

 

• Boats may anchor in appropriate areas while allowing plenty of room for other participants.

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Q: What’s required after sunset?

A: Boats operating after sunset must display proper navigation lights.

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Q: Is alcohol permitted?

A: No. Alcohol is not permitted at Castaic Lake. Boat operators must remain sober and comply with all California boating laws.

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Q: What if my boat breaks down?

A: Contact event staff or Lake Lifeguards immediately if you need assistance. The Lake Lifeguard emergency contact number will be provided during the safety inspection and included on the information handout provided at check-in.

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Q: Do I need a fishing license?

A: Yes—anyone 16 years of age or older who is fishing must possess a valid California fishing license.

 

 

Q: What rules apply?

A: All current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations must be followed, including:

• • Size limits

  • Bag limits

  • Legal fishing methods

  • Catch and release requirements

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Q: How do I dispose of fishing waste?

A: Participants are responsible for properly disposing of fishing line, hooks, bait, and other waste.

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Q: Are kayaks allowed?

A: Yes, kayaks 8 feet or longer are welcome to participate, including inflatable kayaks, as long as they meet the safety requirements.

For a nighttime event, you’ll need:
• A red/green bow light
• A 360° white stern light
• A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board

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Q: Is Moonlight Madness family-friendly?

A: Absolutely—Moonlight Madness is a family-friendly event.

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Q: Can more than one person be on my boat?

A: Yes. Please make sure your boat does not exceed its legal passenger capacity and that there is a properly fitted life jacket available for everyone on board.

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Q: Are dogs allowed?

A: Friendly dogs are welcome aboard your boat. Please keep pets under control at all times and clean up after them.

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Q: Will the event still happen if the weather changes?

A: The event will proceed as scheduled unless weather, water conditions, visibility, or other safety concerns require changes.​

 

Friends of Castaic Lake and Lake Lifeguards reserve the right to delay, modify, suspend, or cancel the event if conditions become unsafe.

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Q: Where will updates be shared?

A: Any updates will be communicated through Friends of Castaic Lake social media and email to registered participants.

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Q: Do I have to fish?

A: No—fishing is optional and many participants simply enjoy a peaceful evening boat ride under the stars.

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Q: Who can I contact if I have questions?

A: Friends of Castaic Lake

Email: info.focl@castaiclake.com

Facebook: Friends of Castaic Lake