Gather your group for an unforgettable hour paddling on the tranquil waters of Lake Mendota near Middleton, Wisconsin. Enjoy flexible kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals perfect for all skill levels.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; light paddling involved.
Wildlife
History
Lake Mendota has been a central hub for local recreation since the early 1900s, known for its importance to native cultures and early settlers.
Conservation
Madison Boats supports eco-friendly boating practices to protect the lake’s water quality and wildlife habitats.
Madison Boats
Gather your group for an unforgettable hour paddling on the tranquil waters of Lake Mendota near Middleton, Wisconsin. Enjoy flexible kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals perfect for all skill levels.
Madison Boats is a boat rental and guided-experience provider based in Middleton, Wisconsin. The company operates pontoon rentals, captained pontoon charters, and paddleboard and kayak rentals that serve Lake Mendota, Lake Wingra, and local launch points including Marshall Boats and The Edgewater. Madison Boats offers a range of trip types to suit anglers, families, groups, and paddlers: fishing-ready pontoons equipped for up to eight anglers, captained pontoons departing from Marshall Boats and The Edgewater, a spacious 12-passenger pontoon for larger gatherings, and short hourly or multi-hour paddle and member rental options.
Each offering includes clear trip descriptions, available durations, and suggested destinations such as Picnic Point, Downtown Madison, Monona Bay, Spring Harbor, and Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Fishing pontoons come with rod holders, storage, and fish finder equipment to support a productive day on the water. Captained charters provide a licensed captain for a relaxed, stress-free experience. Paddle rentals are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers and include staff guidance when requested.
Madison Boats focuses on safe, local lake experiences with options for private groups and casual outings. Reservations and scheduling are managed through established local launch partners. The company’s presence in Middleton positions it to serve residents and visitors seeking accessible access to Madison’s lakes and waterfront attractions. Madison Boats offers flexible booking windows, seasonal availability, and routine equipment maintenance; it operates within local boating and safety regulations and coordinates with launch partners to confirm reservation details, ensuring clarity about start times, return policies, and required member or tax-exempt documentation.
Location
Middleton, WI
Serving Middleton and Lake Mendota area
Boat Types
Pontoon & Paddle
Pontoon rentals and paddle options
Capacity
Up to 12
Options for small to large groups
Trip Options
Hourly & Captained
One-hour to multi-hour, captained available
Select a captained cruise, fishing pontoon, or hourly paddle rental from Madison Boats and confirm availability with local launch partners.
Wear a Life Jacket
Always wear the life jackets provided by Madison Boats for safety on the water.
Arrive Early to Reserve Equipment
Especially for large groups, arriving early ensures your preferred boats are available.
Check Weather Conditions
Wind can make paddling challenging; always check forecasts before your trip.
Bring Water and Sun Protection
Hydrate well and use sunscreen to stay comfortable during your hour on the lake.
Personal Water Bottle
Keep hydrated during your paddle, especially on warm summer days.
summer
Lightweight Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure even during cooler months.
spring
Layered Clothing
Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures on the water.
spring
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep your personal items dry during paddling.