The Best Boat Rentals in Fresno

Most motorboat rentals around Fresno’s lakes run about $100–$200 per hour for pontoons and sport boats, with full-day rates commonly $400–$900 depending on boat size, day of week, and holiday demand. Expect your booking to include standard safety gear and a quick dockside briefing; fuel, taxes, and a refundable security deposit are usually extra, and captained trips add an hourly captain fee. Weekend and holiday pricing (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day) often carries a surcharge, while weekday mornings can be the best value. If you’re comparing options on Getmyboat, check whether your total includes fuel and whether delivery to your lake of choice is part of the price.

The Fresno area is all about lake days, so you’ll find pontoons for relaxed cruising, wake and ski boats for tubing and surfing, deck or bowrider boats for all-around fun, and personal watercraft for zippy rides. Most rentals seat 6–12 guests and range from about 18–24 feet, which is perfect for reservoirs like Shaver Lake, Millerton Lake, Pine Flat Lake, and Bass Lake. If you’re planning a celebration, many hosts recommend a pontoon for space and comfort.

Both options are available. Captained trips are the easiest—your pro handles docking, navigation, and local spots so your group can relax. Self-operated rentals are common for pontoons and fishing boats; if you want to tow a tube or try wake sports, a captained wake boat is a smart pick for safety and smoother setup. Many owners will recommend a captain for busy weekends or if your group is new to the lake.

Common meeting points include Millerton Lake’s South Shore Boat Ramp #1 near Millerton Road and the La Playa area ramps, plus Shaver Lake’s two primary launch areas at Camp Edison (Shaver Lake Marina) and the north-end Sierra Marina. Pine Flat Lake departures often meet at Deer Creek Recreation Area (end of Sunnyslope Road) or the Lakeview Recreation Area launch. Many Bass Lake outings meet at The Pines Marina public launch in town. Hensley Lake has ramps at Hidden View and Buck Ridge, and Eastman Lake commonly uses the Codorniz Recreation Area boat ramp—your host will confirm the exact pin after booking.

Expect big Sierra Nevada scenery: oak-studded foothills and the San Joaquin River canyon at Millerton, pine forests and granite outcrops at Shaver Lake, and the Kings River gorge walls at Pine Flat. Winter brings migrating bald eagles to Millerton, while summer afternoons deliver warm water and wide coves perfect for swimming and tubing. Sunsets are gorgeous on Bass Lake with views toward Mammoth Pool country and the high Sierra beyond.

California requires a California Boater Card for operating motorized vessels as of January 1, 2025, but there is an exemption for operators of rental vessels when you complete the rental checklist provided at pickup. Even with the exemption, many owners prefer or require an experienced operator, and some offer a captain by default. State law also restricts operators under 16 from running most powered boats, so plan for an adult to be at the helm.

Yes—families are welcome, and every rental includes U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets. In California, children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway, so be sure each child has a properly fitting jacket. If you have infants or toddlers, tell your host the ages and weights ahead of time, or bring your own PFD for the best fit. Captains and owners provide a safety briefing before departure.

Most rentals allow coolers, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, and many groups pack picnic-style lunches to enjoy in calm coves. Policies on alcohol vary by owner and lake; choose a sober operator or book a captain if your group plans to drink. Glass is often discouraged or prohibited at marinas and on decks, and open-flame grills are only allowed on certain boats—confirm your host’s rules when booking.

Many pontoons and some sport boats are dog-friendly, typically with an added cleaning or pet fee. Let the owner know your dog’s size and bring a non-slip mat, water bowl, and a pet life jacket. In summer, deck surfaces get hot—plan swims and shade breaks so your pup stays comfortable.

Summer days are hot and dry, and winds often pick up in the afternoon on the reservoirs, which is why locals favor morning departures for smooth water. If unsafe conditions arise—high winds, lightning, or heavy smoke—captains and owners will reschedule or cancel in the interest of safety per the listing’s policy. To keep options open, consider flexible dates on peak weekends, and watch the forecast the day before your trip.

Absolutely—pontoons are the go-to for celebrations because they’re spacious, easy to board, and comfortable for 8–12 guests. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (cruising, swimming, light tubing), and any décor ideas so your host can recommend the right boat and pickup spot. For smoother logistics, choose a captained trip, pre-load playlists, and bring simple finger foods and canned beverages.

Peak boating runs May through September, with Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day being the busiest on all lakes. Weekday mornings generally offer the calmest water and easiest parking; weekends book up early, especially at Shaver and Bass Lake. Spring and fall shoulder months (April and October) can bring lighter crowds and cooler temps, while winter is quieter at Millerton for scenic cruises and wildlife. If you’re aiming for tow sports, target early starts before the afternoon breeze.

Yes—each winter, ranger-led bald eagle boat tours run at Millerton Lake from about January through mid‑March. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly cruise on a tour-style pontoon with great chances to spot eagles perched along the San Joaquin River arm. Seats are limited and popular on holiday weekends, so reserve early if your visit falls in that window.