I've been looking online but can get a straight answer. I know (of course) its illegal to operate a boat under the influence. But, Is it legal to bring beer on a boat and drink it if you aren't the driver? Don't want to to run into this trouble with game warden.

yessir.. be careful out there some real 'pros' out there this weekend

Does the "Open Container" law apply when I'm in my boat?
No. This law, effective 9/1/2001, prohibits the possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage in the passenger area of a motor vehicle. It does not apply to watercraft.

Can my driver's license be suspended if I'm arrested for operating a boat while intoxicated?
Yes. Effective 9/1/2001, a person's drivers license will be automatically suspended if the arrested person:

Is operating a watercraft powered with an engine having a manufacturer's rating of 50 horsepower or above; and
The person refuses to provide a specimen (breath or blood) to determine intoxication.
The period of suspension for 1st time offenders is 180 days.

DRIVE DRUNK. KILL PEOPLE. WOOHOO.

I wonder what happens to your car insurance if you get a BWI in a boat with a 40 HP motor? The law talks about 50 HP and over. i am not planning on doing anything stupid but was just wondering.

Um.. Clearly no one read the question. I don't own a boat. Nor will I be operating a boat while under the influence. I've been invited out to fish on a buddy's boat and was wondering if it was legal for me to drink beer on the boat.

If your not driving the boat go right ahead. You can still get a PI if you get out of hand.

Na, I'm talking like a 6-Pack. Thank you Mudshark. I just wasn't sure if it was legal at all to possess/consume alcohol on a boat. I didn't want to cause any problems for myself or the other people on the boat by breaking the law.

PLEASE MAKE QUESTIONS MORE CLEAR NEXT TIME. KINDA CONFUSING.

My original post asked "But, Is it legal to bring beer on a boat and drink it if you aren't the driver?"

How is that confusing?

Be careful about what type of containers you bring. On national parks glass is not allowed. plastic and aluminum only. They are starting to enforce it on Amistad.

That's very helpful. Thanks!

OK heres the deal:

You may bring beer on the boat. You may not OPERATE the boat while over the legal limit (.08). Everyone else in the boat may drink (as long as they are of legal age, of course). You CANNOT afford to get a BWI. You may still be subject to a PI if you cannot contain your alcohol.
Just be safe and drink responsibly