Skip to main content
Adventure Collective Logo
Adventure ExperiencesLocal ExpertsLocationsAbout
Menu

The Adventure Collective

The Adventure Collective Discover, plan, and share your outdoor adventures with our global community of explorers.

Add as a preferred

source on Google

Explore Adventures

  • All Adventures
  • Boat Charters
  • Water Activities
  • Fishing
  • Land Adventures
  • Motorized Land
  • Winter Sports

Explore Adventures

  • Aerial Adventures
  • Wildlife & Nature
  • Camping & Overnight
  • Climbing & Mountaineering

Find Local Experts

  • Browse Local Experts
  • Become a Featured Expert

Company

  • About Us
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising
  • Add Your Business
  • Contact Us
  • The Adventure Network

Legal & Privacy

  • Privacy Policy
  • General Terms and Conditions
  • Cookies and Marketing Preferences
  • Legal Notice
  • Information according to the Digital Services Act
  • Do not Sell or Share my Personal Information
  • Sitemap

Adventure Town Guides

View All Adventure Towns

© 2026 The Adventure Collective. All rights reserved.

Editorial Policy
Skip to main content
Adventure Collective Logo
Adventure ExperiencesLocal ExpertsLocationsAbout
Menu

The Adventure Collective

The Adventure Collective Discover, plan, and share your outdoor adventures with our global community of explorers.

Add as a preferred

source on Google

Explore Adventures

  • All Adventures
  • Boat Charters
  • Water Activities
  • Fishing
  • Land Adventures
  • Motorized Land
  • Winter Sports

Explore Adventures

  • Aerial Adventures
  • Wildlife & Nature
  • Camping & Overnight
  • Climbing & Mountaineering

Find Local Experts

  • Browse Local Experts
  • Become a Featured Expert

Company

  • About Us
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising
  • Add Your Business
  • Contact Us
  • The Adventure Network

Legal & Privacy

  • Privacy Policy
  • General Terms and Conditions
  • Cookies and Marketing Preferences
  • Legal Notice
  • Information according to the Digital Services Act
  • Do not Sell or Share my Personal Information
  • Sitemap

Adventure Town Guides

View All Adventure Towns

© 2026 The Adventure Collective. All rights reserved.

Editorial Policy
Experts›Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska
Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska adventures

Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska

Schafer's River Rentals offers pontoon, fishing boat, and canoe rentals on Lake Onalaska and the Mississippi River, combining comfort and local knowledge for memorable water adventures.

La Crosse, Wisconsin
•easy
Home/Experts/Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska

Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska

Home/Tour Operators/La Crosse/Riverboat Rentals & Fishing at Schafer's River Rentals in Onalaska
easy
Difficulty
2–6 hours
Duration
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion needed for pontoon or fishing boat use, light paddling for canoe trips.
Fitness Level

About This Experience

Schafer's River Rentals offers pontoon, fishing boat, and canoe rentals on Lake Onalaska and the Mississippi River, combining comfort and local knowledge for memorable water adventures.

Onalaska, Wisconsin, sits along the Mississippi River’s expanse and the tranquil shores of Lake Onalaska, creating a prime destination for water-based adventure. Schafer's River Rentals stands out here as a reliable gateway to experiencing these waterways. This local, family-friendly outfitter offers an accessible combination of pontoon boat, fishing boat, and canoe rentals, all designed to bring visitors comfortably onto some of the region’s most scenic waters. The operation’s small scale is offset by an exceptional focus on personalized service; multiple reviews highlight their staff’s helpful, welcoming nature and their willingness to orient even novice boaters.

Lake Onalaska itself stretches wide, presenting open water lined by wooded bluffs and wetlands—a diverse setting that supports abundant fish populations, including bass and panfish prized by anglers. Schafer's provides essential access, with bait, maps, and advice to give renters confidence before they set out. Families appreciate the spacious XL pontoon boats, which accommodate groups with ease and comfort for multi-generational trips. Those looking to slow the pace can opt for one of the sturdy canoes, perfect for quietly paddling shallow bays and observing local birdlife.

The Mississippi River channel near Onalaska offers a different experience: a riverine landscape punctuated by islands, river bluffs, and occasional passing barges. Trips upriver toward Trempealeau offer picturesque stops for lunch and wildlife viewing. Between water adventures and a casual vibe that includes a friendly dock dog named Rex, Schafer’s crafts a straightforward, memorable experience with no pretension but plenty of heart and local flavor.

For anyone in Western Wisconsin looking to embrace the river and lake lifestyle, Schafer’s River Rentals provides solid gear, fair prices, and sincere local know-how. It’s an inviting place for those who want to fish, paddle, or simply drift, making it an essential part of the outdoor scene in Onalaska and the greater Driftless region.

Adventure Tips & Safety

Reserve Boats in Advance

Popular pontoon and fishing boats can book quickly, especially on weekends. Call ahead to secure your preferred vessel.

essential Priority

Bring Your Own Lunch

The dock store offers snacks and bait; plan to pack a full meal if you intend to make stops along the river.

info Priority

Check Weather and Water Conditions

Flooding or strong winds on Lake Onalaska can limit where you boat; consult staff for daily conditions before launch.

warning Priority

Practice Safe Boating

Staff provide thorough orientation; ensure life jackets fit and boat rules are understood before setting off.

essential Priority

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects from strong sun reflecting off water during all open-water months.

Best for: summer|spring|fall

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Required for safety on all boats and provided by the rental operation.

Best for: null

Water-resistant Jacket

Useful for unpredictable weather and wind on the river or lake.

Best for: spring|fall

Fishing Gear

Available on-site but feel free to bring your preferred rods and tackle for targeted fishing.

Best for: spring|summer|fall

Seasonal Guide

spring

Spring offers fresh wildflowers and active fish but can bring fluctuating water conditions; layers and waterproof gear are recommended.

Best For:

  • Early fishing runs
  • Bird watching
  • Paddling quiet bays

Challenges:

  • Variable water levels
  • Cool temperatures

summer

Summer is prime season for full-day river and lake excursions; expect warm weather ideal for fishing and lounging on roomy pontoons.

Best For:

  • Family pontoon rides
  • Fishing tournaments
  • Sun-filled paddling

Challenges:

  • Crowded weekends
  • High sun exposure

fall

Fall brings crisp air and vivid foliage along the river bluffs, making trips particularly scenic though preparation for cooler weather is essential.

Best For:

  • Colorful bluff views
  • Cool fishing days
  • Quiet paddling

Challenges:

  • Shorter daylight hours
  • Chilly mornings

winter

Winter typically halts boat rentals, but it’s a good time to research trips and enjoy snowy landscapes from shore or nearby trails.

Best For:

  • Off-season planning
  • Winter wildlife observation

Challenges:

  • Limited rentals
  • Ice-covered waters

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior boating experience to rent a pontoon or fishing boat?

No, Schafer's staff provide a clear orientation for all rental boats to ensure you feel comfortable and safe before heading out.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, personal flotation devices are supplied with every rental and must be worn according to Wisconsin boating regulations.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?

Absolutely. While the dock store has basic snacks and drinks, guests often pack lunches for river stops or day-long outings.

Is fishing equipment included with the rental?

Basic fishing gear and bait are available onsite, but you are welcome to bring your own rods and tackle if preferred.

What is the best place to boat from Schafer's?

Many renters enjoy cruising Lake Onalaska or taking the river route upriver toward Trempealeau for scenic views and lunch stops.

Are pets allowed on the boats?

Schafer’s is pet-friendly at the dock area, with their friendly dog Rex greeting guests; check with staff about allowing pets onboard before renting.

Photography Tips

Best Photo Spots

  • Early morning light
  • Golden hour before sunset

Golden Hours

Rippling water and reflectionsRiver bluffs and islandsLocal wildlife such as eagles and herons

Recommended Equipment

  • Bluff overlooks along the Mississippi near Trempealeau
  • Shoreline spots on Lake Onalaska
  • Dock area at Schafer's River Rentals

Essential Information

Nearby City

La Crosse, WI

Activity Details

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion needed for pontoon or fishing boat use, light paddling for canoe trips.

Technical Skills
  • • Basic boating orientation provided by staff

Local Insights

History

Onalaska developed alongside the Mississippi as a river town with historic ties to river commerce and recreation dating to the 19th century.

Hidden Gems

  • •Quiet backwater bays on Lake Onalaska perfect for birdwatching
  • •Small islands upriver offering picnic spots and secluded rest stops

Wildlife

  • •Bald eagles
  • •Great blue herons

Experience Level

easy

Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.

Nearby Adventures

All Adventures

Boat Charters

Water Activities

Fishing

Land Adventures

Motorized Land

Winter Sports

Aerial Adventures

Wildlife & Nature

Camping & Overnight

Climbing & Mountaineering

Others

All Adventures

Boat Charters

Water Activities

Reviews