The best types of boats for lakes depend on the size of the lake and how you plan to use your boat. Pontoon boats, deck boats, fishing boats, watersport boats, cabin cruisers, and bowriders are among the most popular options for both small and large lakes. Choosing the right lake boat comes down to balancing passenger space, performance, water depth, and activities like fishing, cruising, or watersports.
There are essentially 23 different types of boats that are great for lakes according to sources across the web but not all of them are perfect for both small lakes and big lakes alike.
So to determine which type of boat is best for your lake life, you need to figure out the right size for the lakes you will be boating on and the activities you will be enjoying.
Whether you prefer a fishing spot at Grayslake, a place for entertainment like the Chain O’Lakes, or you want to enjoy the excitement of watersports and shoreside amenities at Lake Geneva, there is a perfect fit boat for you.
Deck boats, cabin cruisers, bowriders, jet boats, bass boats, wakeboard boats, dinghies, cuddy cabins, houseboats, personal watercraft, sailboats, trawlers, center console boats, dual console boats, inflatable boats, yachts, runabouts, canoes, skiffs, catamaran boats, fishing boats, ski boats, walkarounds OH MY!
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of lake boats and what they can offer to simplify your search.
The 7 Most Popular Types of Lake Boats
- Pontoon Boats
- Deck Boats
- Jon Boats
- Fishing Boats
- Watersport Boats
- Cabin Cruisers
- Bowriders
1. Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are very popular and versatile with lots of space for large groups and storage. They are a popular choice for those who enjoy fishing, entertaining, and watersports, as well as first-time boat owners. Perfect for small lakes with as little as 24 inches of water, big lakes, and even calm oceans about 1-2 miles offshore.
They come in sizes ranging from 15 feet to over 30 feet and are extremely customizable with waterslides, wet bars, sun pads, boat grills, sound systems, rod holders, fender sets, and so much more.
2. Deck Boats
On lakes, this type of boat is popular due to how it maximizes the seating and interior space. For boaters who want to get out on the water for a day of socializing, deck boats can accommodate plenty of passengers comfortably. For those who enjoy fishing, there are plenty of accessories and equipment to enhance your experience.
Most have a V-shaped hull and usually range from 12 to 30 feet in length and are known for day touring and towing. Perfect for small and large lakes, rivers, and even more coastal areas.
3. Jon Boats
Jon boats are pretty indestructible and one least expensive types of lake boats on the market. You can purchase with or without power. These flat-bottomed utility vessels are suited for fishing, hunting, navigating shallow waters, and pulling very close to shores. Designed for small lakes, rivers, and calmer waters.
Jon boats come in a variety of shapes and sizes from 10 to 18 feet with a huge range of fishing and hunting accessories including casting decks, swivel seats, storage bins, rod holders, livewells, and so much more.
4. Fishing Boats
Fishing boats are designed specifically for the ultimate fishing experience from the way the seats are configured to their livewells, rod holders, trolling motor, and the massive selection of fishing accessories.
Fishing boats are great for small lakes. A bass boat is the best type of fishing boat for large lakes and rivers due to its modified V-hull to cut through choppy waters. Inland fishing boats range from 17-20 feet.
Offshore fishing boats come in a wide range of sizes from 25 to 80 feet. 30-40 feet is optimal for longer trips out on the open water and most weather conditions.
5. Watersport Boats
Watersport boats are designed to tow waterskis and wakeboards with good visibility from the helm. They have towers or poles with elevated tow points and plenty of guest seating and storage space for skis, boards, and watersport equipment.
This type of lake boat tends to be activity-specific and ranges from 19 to 25 feet long. The lake should be at least 5-6 feet deep and you will need at least 200 feet of space around you when water skiing. Wakeboarding, on the other hand, requires at least 10-foot deep waters to create a good wake and a 600-foot wide area around you for safety.
6. Cabin Cruisers
If you’re looking for the perfect overnight or weekend boat, cabin cruisers are versatile allowing you to sleep, cook, sunbathe, and entertain passengers on the lake. They are simple boats with a good amount of luxury and space. On the other end of the pricing spectrum, cabin cruisers can become mini yachts.
Ranging in size from 20 to 45 feet long, cabin cruisers are considered seaworthy with the ability to handle rougher waters and big lakes.
7. Bowriders
Known as one of the most popular types of lake boats in America, bowriders are recognized by having most of their seating in the bow/front of the boat. They are designed for water skiing, tubing, daytime cruising, and swimming.
Most bowriders range from 17 to 30 feet but there are some bigger versions exceeding 40 feet. They are best suited for inland waters such as lakes and large ponds and are easy to maneuver. Smaller bowriders are at risk on big waters but larger ones can better handle choppy waters and big waves.
Center Console Vs Dual Console Lake Boats
Center console lake boats have the controls mounted near the center of the boat and dual console boats have a helm console, usually on the starboard/right side, and a companion console on the left/port side.
Interested In Buying a Lake Boat?
The largest boat show and boat sale in Northern Illinois comes around each year around February and/or March and is held at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, IL.
It is the best place and time to buy the most popular types of lake boats discussed above with the best sale pricing on 200+ new and used boats. There are over 50 boat brands on display from local boat dealers and a huge selection of boat trailers, parts, and accessories.
Get pre-season, show only savings up to tens of thousands of dollars with on-site low-rate financing available.
Children get free admission, and parking is free!
FAQs
What are the best types of boats for lakes?
The best types of boats for lakes include pontoon boats, deck boats, fishing boats, watersport boats, cabin cruisers, and bowriders. The right choice depends on lake size, water conditions, and how you plan to use the boat.
What type of boat is best for small lakes?
Pontoon boats, deck boats, jon boats, and fishing boats are best for small lakes because they handle shallow water well and don’t require large open areas to operate.
What boats are best for large lakes with rough water?
Bowriders, cabin cruisers, larger pontoons, and V-hull fishing boats are better for large lakes because they handle waves, wind, and changing water conditions more safely.
Are pontoon boats good for both small and large lakes?
Yes, pontoon boats work well on both small and large lakes. Their stable design, shallow draft, and customizable layouts make them versatile for cruising, fishing, and watersports.
What is the best lake boat for fishing?
Bass boats are the best option for fishing on large lakes, while jon boats and smaller fishing boats work well on small lakes due to their shallow-water capability and simple design.
Which boats are best for watersports on lakes?
Watersport boats, ski boats, and wakeboard boats are best for lakes because they are designed for towing, visibility, and creating consistent wakes.
How do I choose the right size boat for a lake?
Choose a boat size based on lake size, typical water conditions, passenger capacity, and storage needs. Smaller lakes favor boats under 20 feet, while large lakes often require boats over 20 feet for stability.
Can one boat work well for fishing, cruising, and watersports?
Yes, deck boats, pontoon boats, and bowriders can handle multiple activities, making them ideal all-purpose lake boats for families and mixed-use boating.