Police in Winnipeg are reminding the public of safe boating practices ahead of the long weekend after a kayaker was struck by a boat last weekend.

The Winnipeg Police Service says that around 9:45 p.m. on August 27 they were called to the Tache Public Dock, where Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service members were already on scene, tending to an injured male.

A 41-year-old male was transported to hospital in stable condition suffering a head injury.

Officers were able to recover a heavily damaged kayak and personal property a distance away on the water.

The WPS says that their investigation has determined that the kayaker was on the Red River when he was struck by a 23-foot Sea Ray boat. Police point out that the kayak was not equipped with navigation lighting, and the injured male was wearing all black clothing at the time of the incident. That, combined with the limited visibility due to the time of day contributed to the collision, police say.

"The kayak operator is fortunate not to have sustained a severe injury and is expected to recover fully," the WPS points out.

"The Winnipeg Police Service and River Patrol Section reminds the public to exercise proper vessel safety during the upcoming long weekend to minimize hazards for themselves and other vessel operators," the release says.

The WPS says that the River Patrol will be on Winnipeg waterways this weekend to ensure everyone’s safety.