Boat & Watercraft Rentals at Inlet Bay Marina, Fort Collins - Fort Collins

Boat & Watercraft Rentals at Inlet Bay Marina, Fort Collins

Fort Collinseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–4 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness recommended for paddle sports; boating and pontoons require minimal physical effort.

Overview

At Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins, Inlet Bay Marina offers a wide range of boat and watercraft rentals—from kayaks and paddleboards to jet skis and fishing boats—perfect for making the most of Colorado’s freshwater playground.

Details

Fort Collins, Colorado, is better known for its mountain trails and craft breweries, but just minutes from town lies Horsetooth Reservoir—a sparkling, 1,900-acre gem offering water-based adventure less than an hour from the foothills. At the heart of this aquatic playground is Inlet Bay Marina, a hub for boaters, paddlers, and thrill seekers eager to access everything Horsetooth has to offer. With a diverse fleet ranging from nimble kayaks and canoes to powerful runabouts, jet skis, and pontoons, Inlet Bay caters to both solo adventurers and groups seeking to cruise, fish, or simply soak in the landscape.

The marina’s offerings include a 2024 Slide Pontoon and Sweetwater Pontoon—perfect options for a leisurely float with friends and family. For those chasing wake and waves, the 2022 Tower Ski Boat and 2021 Jet Skis provide punchy performance for high-adrenaline rides. Center Console Fishing Boats and Supercats offer anglers direct access to prime trout and bass spots just offshore. Meanwhile, quieter craft such as hydro bikes, paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes allow for closer encounters with the reservoir’s riparian wildlife and the rugged bluffs lining the shore.

Horsetooth Reservoir itself stands out with its sheer rock faces and clear blue waters carved into the foothills of the Rockies, framed by ponderosa pines, piñon pines, and sagebrush. Visitors often find deer grazing near the water’s edge, and bald eagles above riding thermals. Inlet Bay Marina complements this natural setting with friendly, knowledgeable staff who help outfit visitors with gear and safety info, making it a focal point for summer water recreation in Northern Colorado.

Whether you're launching a kayak at sunrise, casting from a fishing boat, or riding jet skis under a wide-open sky, Inlet Bay Marina provides direct access to a spirited, scenic reservoir enjoyed year-round by locals and visitors alike.

Adventure Tips

Bring your own life jacket

While the marina provides life jackets, having your own ensures the best fit and comfort during long time on the water.

Check fuel levels before heading out

For motorboats and jet skis, verify fuel capacity to avoid unexpected returns mid-reservoir.

Reserve equipment in advance

Especially on weekends and summer holidays, securing your boat or paddlecraft early avoids disappointment.

Watch the weather closely

Afternoon storms can arise quickly—plan outings for mornings or early afternoons for calmer conditions.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet coves along the western shore perfect for paddleboarding
  • Hidden fishing spots near the dam where trout gather

Wildlife

  • Mule deer frequently spotted near shorelines
  • Bald eagles and osprey soaring overhead

History

Horsetooth Reservoir was created in the 1940s by damming the Cache la Poudre River, providing water and recreation near Fort Collins.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of waste to protect the reservoir’s clear water and wildlife habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunrise
Mid-afternoon with clear skies
Sunset over the reservoir

Best Viewpoints

  • South Inlet Bay dock
  • Soderberg Trail overlook
  • Near the Horsetooth Dam

What to Photograph

Rocky bluffs and reservoir reflections
Watercraft action shots
Local birds like bald eagles in flight

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from strong Colorado sun during extended water activities.

summer specific

Waterproof dry bag

Essential

Keep your valuables safe and dry while paddling or boating.

Water shoes

Useful for launching crafts and wading nearshore.

spring|summer|fall specific

Light windbreaker

Essential

Stay warm during breezy mornings or cooling evenings on the water.

spring|fall specific