Boat Rentals & Lake Trips with Flathead Boat Company, Polson MT
Spend a day on Montana’s Flathead Lake with Flathead Boat Company’s reliable boat rentals. Friendly staff, flexible booking, and easy access to Wild Horse Island await.
Kalispell, Montana
•easy
Boat Rentals & Lake Trips with Flathead Boat Company, Polson MT
easy
Difficulty
3–6 hours
Duration
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required except for boarding and minor boat handling.
Fitness Level
About This Experience
Spend a day on Montana’s Flathead Lake with Flathead Boat Company’s reliable boat rentals. Friendly staff, flexible booking, and easy access to Wild Horse Island await.
Located along the southern shores of Flathead Lake in Polson, Montana, Flathead Boat Company offers a gateway to one of the largest freshwater lakes west of the Mississippi. This sprawling alpine lake, carved by glaciers during the last ice age, stretches over 190 square miles and presents an ideal setting for water-based adventure in the Northern Rockies. Flathead Boat Company specializes in convenient and friendly boat rentals, helping visitors access the lake’s expanse with ease and confidence.
The company’s boat rental fleet is well-maintained and straightforward to operate, catering to families, groups of friends, and first-time boaters alike. Many visitors praise the attentive staff who provide clear safety guidance and accommodate last-minute adjustments when weather turns on a dime. Polson’s weather can shift rapidly, but with Flathead Boat Company’s flexible scheduling and weather-aware policies, visitors stay safe while maximizing their time on the water.
One of the defining draws of the Flathead Lake area is Wild Horse Island, Montana’s largest island on an inland body of water. Accessible by boat, the island features rocky shorelines, open grasslands, and quiet hiking trails amid blue water backdrops. Renting a boat here is the perfect way to reach the island and enjoy wildlife viewing, including bighorn sheep and eagles.
Beyond island visits, the lake offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Mission and Swan Mountain ranges. Clearwater waters and frequent bald eagle sightings make every boat trip memorable. Flathead Boat Company’s local expertise and friendly service distinguish it as a prime outfitter for lake recreation in this part of Montana.
Whether you’re renting for half a day or a full six hours, the flexibility, reliable equipment, and knowledgeable staff ensure a hassle-free experience. Polson provides a laid-back atmosphere and convenient access for visitors coming from Missoula or Kalispell, making this a must-try boating experience when visiting Flathead Lake.
For anyone looking to get on the water with confidence and good company, Flathead Boat Company delivers a top-notch local resource for uncovering the lake’s unique natural beauty and outdoor opportunities.
Adventure Tips & Safety
Reserve Weekday Rentals Early
Flathead Boat Company’s boats book fast on weekends, so plan ahead or visit midweek for better availability and flexibility.
info PriorityCheck Weather Before Heading Out
Lake weather can change quickly; the company offers early boarding options if storms approach, so stay in touch with staff.
essential PriorityBring Life Jackets for Everyone
Safety is a priority—ensure all passengers wear provided life jackets while on the boat to comply with regulations.
essential PriorityPlan for Wild Horse Island Visits
Allow extra time to reach and hike around Wild Horse Island, a highlight accessible only by boat from Flathead Boat Company.
info PriorityRecommended Gear
Sunglasses
EssentialProtect your eyes from glare off the water during open lake boating.
Best for: summer
Layered Clothing
EssentialVariable temperatures call for layers to stay comfortable on changing weather days.
Best for: spring|fall
Waterproof Bag
Keep valuables dry during boating and potential splashes.
Best for: all
Sunscreen
EssentialApply liberally to avoid sunburn under Montana’s intense sun exposure.
Best for: summer
Seasonal Guide
spring
Spring brings quieter lake days and fresh greenery, but dress in layers and prepare for sudden temperature drops.
Best For:
- Enjoying calm waters
- Birdwatching emerging wildlife
- Capturing clear landscapes
Challenges:
- Occasional chill and wind
- Variable weather patterns
summer
Summer is peak boating season on Flathead Lake with warm temperatures and extended daylight, so book early.
Best For:
- Full-day boating
- Swimming and picnicking
- Extended Wild Horse Island trips
Challenges:
- Crowded weekends
- Higher boat rental demand
- Sun exposure
fall
Fall offers stunning foliage views from the water and cooler boating conditions—ideal for afternoon trips.
Best For:
- Colorful mountain backdrops
- Milder temperatures
- Less crowded waters
Challenges:
- Shorter days
- Potential early cold fronts
winter
Winter lake boating is rare due to cold weather, but the snowy landscapes make for beautiful photography from shore.
Best For:
- Scenic views from shore
- Quiet lake atmosphere
Challenges:
- Boating rentals limited or unavailable
- Cold and icy conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?
No boating license is required. Flathead Boat Company provides basic operational instructions and safety guidelines.
Can I rent boats on short notice?
Day-before rentals are possible but limited on weekends. Early booking is recommended for peak times.
Are life jackets provided with the rental?
Yes, all rentals include life jackets for every passenger compliant with safety regulations.
What happens if the weather turns bad during my rental?
Staff monitor weather closely and can allow earlier returns with prorated charges for unused time.
Can I take the boat to Wild Horse Island?
Absolutely. Many visitors use the boats to visit the island, which offers hiking and wildlife viewing.
Is there age or group size restrictions for rentals?
Flathead Boat Company accommodates a range of group sizes; minors should be accompanied by adults.
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Golden hour at sunrise or sunset
- Early morning calm waters
- Mid-afternoon for bright daylight
Golden Hours
Mountain reflections on lake surfaceWild horses and bighorn sheep on the islandEagles and other lakeside birds in flight
Recommended Equipment
- From the bow of the boat looking toward the Mission Mountains
- Shoreline near Wild Horse Island beaches
- Polson waterfront dock areas at sunset
Essential Information
Nearby City
Missoula, MT
Activity Details
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required except for boarding and minor boat handling.
Technical Skills
- • Basic boat operation knowledge or guided instruction provided onsite
Local Insights
History
Flathead Lake formed approximately 15,000 years ago from glacial activity and remains central to the Salish and Kootenai tribes’ heritage.
Hidden Gems
- •Sicamous Bay’s quieter coves for fishing and wildlife watching
- •Hidden sandy beaches along the northwestern shore, perfect for picnics
Wildlife
- •Bighorn sheep on Wild Horse Island
- •Bald eagles soaring over the lake
Experience Level
easy
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.