moderate
2–4 hours
Basic to moderate fitness recommended for paddling or handling small boats, while jet skis require minimal prior experience.
Riverside Recreation in Polson, Montana, offers everything from kayaks and paddleboards to premium pontoons for adventurers ready to connect with expansive Flathead Lake. Discover why this family-owned outfitter is the go-to source for quality watercraft rentals in this spectacular region.
On the western shores of Montana’s vast Flathead Lake, Riverside Recreation offers an array of watercraft rentals that unlock the fresh, open-water experience so rare in the northern Rockies. Polson, sitting at the southern edge of this massive, glacier-carved lake, provides a gateway to some of the most accessible yet stunning waterways in the region. Swing by Riverside Recreation to outfit your next aquatic adventure with everything from single and double kayaks to premium pontoon boats equipped with upper decks and slides. Whether you’re aiming for a gentle solo paddle along the shoreline or looking to cruise the open waters in a runabout or personal watercraft, Riverside Recreation covers all bases.
Flathead Lake itself is an expansive natural treasure, carved out during the last ice age and renowned for its clear, cold waters and dramatic surrounding mountains. Kayakers find secluded inlets among rocky outcroppings and ponderosa pine forests lining the shore, while pontooners can drift lazily with panoramic views of the Mission Mountains to the north and the Swan Range to the east. Stand-up paddleboards add a versatile way to engage with smaller bays and coves, rewarding balance and patience with serene vistas and frequent glimpses of local wildlife.
This family-owned business, operating for over a decade, brings local insight and personal service to every rental experience. Riverside Recreation has earned praise for clean equipment, helpful staff, and prompt support during unexpected situations, like emergency watercraft repairs. Their diverse rental options make them a cornerstone for anyone looking to experience Flathead Lake beyond the launch ramp, whether it’s an energetic jet ski ride or an afternoon pontoon cruise.
For anyone visiting Polson, Riverside Recreation is a practical and dependable outfitter for a waterborne adventure on one of Montana’s largest and most beautiful bodies of water.
Popular rentals like jet skis and premium pontoons often book up quickly during summer weekends—plan ahead to secure your preferred craft.
Safety regulations and lake conditions mean life jackets are mandatory on all watercraft rentals.
Flathead Lake can change rapidly; watch for afternoon winds or storms and plan your outing accordingly.
Ensure personal watercraft and runabout boats are fully fueled; refueling options are limited on the lake itself.
Flathead Lake sits within Salish tribal lands and has been a vital water and food resource for indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
Efforts by local operators, including Riverside Recreation, support clean water initiatives and promote responsible boating to preserve Flathead Lake’s clarity and ecosystem.
Protects skin from sun exposure during extended lake outings.
summer specific
Keeps personal items dry when on the water in kayaks or pontoons.
Comfortable and fast-drying apparel is vital for water activities.
spring|summer|fall specific
Protects feet on rocky or slippery boat ramps and shoreline landings.
spring|summer|fall specific