Which maneuver is illegal for personal watercraft operators in Nebraska?

Jumping the wakes of other vessels is considered illegal for personal watercraft operators in Nebraska because it poses significant safety risks. This activity can make it difficult for operators to maintain control of their watercraft and increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly if the vessel they are jumping the wake of is traveling at high speed or is not expecting nearby watercraft to perform such maneuvers. Additionally, wake jumping can disrupt the operation of other boats and create hazardous conditions for nearby swimmers, leading to possible injuries or collisions.

In contrast, while circling around stationary boats can be seen as a reckless maneuver, it is not explicitly illegal under Nebraska boating laws, provided operators maintain a safe distance and speed. Riding without a life jacket is strongly discouraged and may be unsafe, but it is not explicitly illegal for every operator—only for certain age groups or situations. Operating at night without lights is a clear violation of safety regulations, but it pertains specifically to navigation rules rather than a maneuver with inherent safety risks associated with wake jumping.