When picking up a skier, where should they be kept relative to the boat?

When picking up a skier, they should be kept on the operator's side of the boat. This is important for safety and visibility. The operator's side typically refers to the side of the boat from which the driver is seated and, therefore, has the best view of the skier in the water. By maintaining the skier on this side, the operator can more easily monitor the skier’s movements, ensuring a safe and efficient pick-up.

Positioning the skier on the operator's side also helps to avoid any potential collisions that could occur if the skier was picked up from the opposite side, where the operator has a limited view. This practice promotes better communication between the skier and the boat operator, as the skier can signal more effectively and the operator can provide instructions or reassurance.

Other options, such as the left side, right side, or front side, do not provide the same level of visibility and control for the operator, which are critical for the safety of the skier as they are retrieved from the water.