Starting as a toddler on Lake Anna, Gordie Graham has spent most of his life on the water. Earlier this month, he was crowned national champion in the Men’s 19–29 division at the 2025 Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships presented by GM Marine. The competition took place the first week of August in Grand Junction, Colorado. Graham has been involved …
Wake Boats Under Fire at Lake Anna and Beyond
Wake boats are one of the hottest controversies on American lakes today, and Lake Anna is no different. With dozens of lakes moving to ban the fast-growing sport of wakesurfing, critics argue that the boats traumatize kayakers, damage fragile shorelines, and create safety hazards. Shoreline erosion has become a particularly pressing concern as wake boats, designed to generate large waves …
Hot Side Welcomes Lake Anna Jet-Setters
Founded in 2022, the “Jet-Ski Brigade” has quickly become a beloved fixture on Lake Anna—a vibrant meet-up group of jet-ski enthusiasts who regularly hit the water together, most often on Friday or Sunday mornings. Their adventures have taken them to a variety of scenic spots, including breakfast runs to Vito’s, lively picnics and tailgating at Cocktail Cove, and even laid-back …
Plan Ahead for a Safe and Sober Holiday Weekend on the Water [Photo Gallery]
Photo by Lake Anna Photography Lake Media Group’s Carol Barker Wyatt, John Heishman and David Bailey had the privilege of doing a media ride-along with the Department of Wildlife Resources on Thursday, June 26th, as a safety effort for the upcoming holiday week and weekend – starting with two key actions: wear a life jacket and designate a sober operator. …
Jet Boat Community Celebrates Service and Safety at 2025 Lake Anna Invasion
The 2025 Lake Anna Jet Boat Invasion kicked off with energy, excitement, and heartfelt appreciation for community service at its Friday night launch party held at Lake Anna Taphouse. This year’s Jet Boat Community Service Award was presented to Kelly and Joe Bladen, honoring their generous support and long-standing involvement in the event. Past recipients include Lake Anna legends Jack …
Powerboats Bring 20,000 Horsepower to Lake Anna
Photos by John Heishman The 5th Annual Lake Anna Powerboats Fun Run roared to life on October 6th, delivering heart-pounding action and drawing an enthusiastic crowd of boaters and spectators alike. Held at Lake Anna State Park’s Ware Cove, the event saw 31 boats from eight classes compete in thrilling races that highlighted the power and beauty of high-performance boats. …
Lake Anna Bucket List: 15 Must-Do Activities When Visiting Lake Anna
Just like visiting the beach, Lake Anna has its signature “hot spots” – places people go to be around other like-minded vacationers. Here at Lake Anna, there are specific businesses and locations that cater to crowds for specific reasons – boaters go to well known local spots on the water called “Cocktail Cove” or “The Sandbar”… while beer lovers go …
Golden Age of Lake Anna Fishing is Here with “Bigger and Better” Bass
In a series of samples taken by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), John Odenkirk is in awe of the “best bass sample I’ve ever seen”, marking what he calls the “Golden Age” of Lake Anna fisheries. “It can’t get any better,” Odenkirk says right before he notes, “but then it gets better.” Odenkirk has taken samples from Lake …
Jet Boat Enthusiasts Unite: “It’s the Camaraderie”
Carlos Wood has been hosting the jet boat community at Highpoint Marina’s Lighthouse Inn since its inception 25 years ago. Thanks to his warm hospitality, the annual gathering convenes at the High Point pavilion and picnic area for a country boil each year on a Friday night in June. After a full day of boating excitement, attendees say a prayer, …
High Point Marina Owner Carlos Wood Earns Prestigious Award from Jetboats of Lake Anna
Lake Anna, VA – Carlos Wood, the dedicated owner of High Point Marina, has been honored with the third annual award from Jetboats of Lake Anna during the 25th Hot Boat Invasion. This accolade recognizes Wood’s unwavering dedication and service to the vibrant annual gathering of jet boat enthusiasts at Lake Anna. The event’s highlight was the traditional Friday night …










