By Luke
Sat, Sep 17 2011 1:00 am | Comments

Line it up

Use this method to dial in the proper rope length for your ability level and boat speed.

Size it up

First, ride in the trough right next to the wake, which will show you the spot on the wake where you’ll hit when you cut in.

Find the sweet spot

You want to hit the wake right before it curls over or within 6 inches to 1 foot of where it’s curling.

Know what to look for

If, for example, you’re riding beside the wake and it’s curling over 2 to 3 feet behind you, then you’re either riding too fast or your rope is too short. If the wake is curling 2 to 3 feet in front of you, you’re riding too slow or a too-long rope.

Set your speed

It’s important you ride at a comfortable speed. Establish your desired pace first then let the rope in or out so you’re lined up with the sweet spot of the wake.

Where to work from

Having trouble deciding if your speed is consistent with your rope length? Start from these speed-and-length combinations: 50 to 55 feet at 20 to 21 mph; 60 to 70 feet at 22 to 23 mph; and 75 to 80 feet at 23.5 to 24.5 mph.