The vast land and diverse natural features of the United States offer a wide variety of bodies of water and boating spots. Even in the midwest and the mountains, you can find incredible lakes that are perfect for boating and watersports. Although the number of lakes is overwhelmingly large, there are some that stand out from the rest with their well-maintained, beautiful waterfronts, on- and off-the-water activities, and pleasant climate.
Lake Tahoe is the most widely celebrated lake in the states. It has been featured in movies, radio shows, books, and songs, and for good reason. Located between California and Nevada, the climate is suitable for jubilant boating trips and excursions during the summer and winter sports during the cold months. If you visit Lake Tahoe, you must rent a boat for at least one day of your adventures. Speedboat rentals, pontoon rentals, and jet ski rentals are popular for tourists and locals alike to enjoy in Lake Tahoe. The weather from May to September is fantastic for cruising by the coastal resorts while the famous blue water sparkles. Lake Tahoe is boating heaven, charming its visitors with the beautiful backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountain range surrounding the lake. The area offers splendid hotels, hiking, mountain biking, and other sporting activities, and casinos, simultaneously offering peaceful rest and solid entertainment.
The state of Georgia prides itself on the colorful Lake Lanier. While the water basin itself is not very large, it is very suitable for boating and water sports, primarily because of the all-year-round pleasant temperatures and soothing blue water. Fishing boats and speedboats are available, while the waters are rich in catfish, perch, sunfish, and several types of bass. The top season includes all the months from March to November when the sun is warm and boating can be combined with exciting water sports.
Lake Michigan is one of the biggest lakes in the US and perhaps the most exciting in terms of boating activities. It is shared by four US states - Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana. The most popular place to get on Lake Michigan from is Chicago - if you travel to Chicago, make sure you rent a boat on Lake Michigan or book a captained boat charter.
The waterfront of Lake Michigan is different in each state, giving the lake’s visitors the opportunity to explore its many faces. Fishing is a natural part of the lake’s buzzing activities. There is a huge variety of fishing boats for rent, satisfying America’s hobbies and fish consumption on a daily basis. Recreational boating in Lake Michigan is also a thrilling venture due to the plentiful picturesque islands, harbors, and lighthouses. The boating season opens up in the middle of May and extends through October.
Lake Superior, the largest US lake and the leader of the Great Lakes, attracts boating lovers with its colorful flora, rich waters, and fantastic views. Situated in the northern part of the states, it borders three US states (Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota) and the Canadian province of Ontario. It is characterized by a humid continental climate with low but pleasant temperatures. While it may not be the best place for sunbathing, Lake Superior is a gorgeous source of natural delights, as well as fishing opportunities with more than 80 types of fish available.
A fabulous place to go boating and enjoy nature is the snake-shaped Lake of the Ozarks, located in the heart of Missouri. It is one of the most diverse lakes in terms of wildlife, things to do and places to see, and peaceful recreation. The Lake of the Ozarks is suitable for fishing with its abundance of catfish and largemouth bass. Rent a fishing boat or book a fishing charter on Lake of the Ozarks for a great day on the lake with kids or fellow anglers. The weather is very moderate and predictable on the Lake of the Ozarks, ranging from lower temperatures in the winter to almost 80 degrees during the summer.
Redfish Lake is a small but very picturesque water basin in central Idaho, seemingly untouched by the human hand, with an abundant amount of wildlife and fish, and marvelous views. There are numerous boating opportunities for both fishing and leisure purposes. The best time to go boating in this beautiful area is during the summer months, especially July and August when the temperatures are mild as opposed to the freezing winter climate. The lake features nice restaurants, boating and fishing centers, and fun water activities.
A viable option for an all-year-round boating experience is Lake Placid in the state of New York. While the best time to go sailing and fishing in the lake is May to early October, the winter is not as severe as many other basins located in the Northern part of the states. Lake Placid was the host of the 1932 and the 1980 Winter Olympics and has never stopped being in the spotlight for local sports events. There is something for everyone to do and see, especially if you are a fan of water sports. Boating, hiking, and bird watching are only a small part of the recreational activities available. There are also plenty of historic sites for a truly engaging and inspirational vacation.
A paradise on earth, in the state of Washington, is Lake Chelan. Although it resembles a fairytale in the winter when it is covered in snow, the lake is best suitable for boating adventures in the late spring, summer, and early autumn months. Rent a boat on Lake Chelan for an unforgettable time cruising the waves and exploring this gorgeous region of the Pacific Northwest. Comprising of the two main basins, the Wapato and the Lucerne Basin, it is a waterway to the North Cascades National Park. Lake Chelan is a watersports heaven. Rent a speedboat for enjoying waterskiing, wakeboarding, and more. Available for rent are not only boats — big and small, simple and luxurious — but also all the gear that would add up to the perfect experience — kayaks, jet skis, snorkeling, and scuba-diving gear, paddleboards, and more.
Fed by the Colorado River, this reservoir has carved a place for itself on the border of Utah and Arizona – it even operates on two time zones. The clear waters of Lake Powell offer nearly 2 million people every year a place to vacation, relax, enjoy all that nature has to offer as well as a respite from the hot, desert summers.
Visitors typically have their spread of boats available for rent on Lake Powell — houseboats, speedboats, and kayaks being among the most popular. Fish are plentiful as well as the sheer, orange, red, and pink sandstone walls that border the blue waters, making Lake Powell a great destination for a fishing charter. Many tourists take their boating vacation to the next level and rent camping gear alongside the boat of their choice better to zip around the lake and experience a new shore to sleep on each night. After you’ve had your fill of boating, step ashore and explore the colorful Antelope Canyon among other national parks, canyons, and historic sites.
Want to live the Lake Life this summer? Take your pick, grab your bags, and set off on a remarkable journey to America’s top boating lakes!
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