Best Lakes for Pontoon Boating Near Minneapolis (and Beyond)
February 26, 2026
Whether you’re cruising with family, relaxing on a fishing pontoon, or entertaining friends on a tritoon, the right lake can make your boating adventures unforgettable. At Crest Pontoon Boats, we know that where you boat matters as much as how you boat, so we’ve rounded up the top lakes near major boating cities in the U.S.—perfect for pontoons, tritoons, and fishing pontoons alike.
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis offers a mix of bustling waterways and quiet coves, ideal for casual pontoon cruises, fishing, and family outings.
Prior Lake – Just 25 miles southwest of the city, Prior Lake (Upper & Lower Prior) spans 1,000+ acres. Calm coves are perfect for swimming, open stretches for tubing, and lakeside restaurants make full-day trips easy. Dock at Sand Point Beach Park or Knotty Oar Marina to explore Crest pontoons.
Why boat here: Family-friendly, versatile, and lively during summer events like the Prior Lake Boat Parade.
St. Anthony (Mississippi River) – Cruise urban waterways with skyline views and historic landmarks. Launch from Boom Island Park or Upper Harbor Terminal for sightseeing and slow cruising. Hannay’s Marine has Crest models ready for your Mississippi adventure.
Why boat here: Unique city experience combined with calm cruising stretches.
Atlanta, GA
Georgia lakes combine long seasons, open water, and scenic coves.
Lake Lanier – 38,000 acres of open water, marinas, and full-service amenities make it ideal for family pontoons or tritoons. Watersports Central in Buford carries Crest pontoons for every style.
Why boat here: Perfect for large groups, fishing trips, and lively lake adventures.
Lake Oconee – 19,000 acres of calm water with resort-style charm. Great for relaxed pontoon cruises or fishing pontoon outings. Watersports Central has the latest models.
Why boat here: Tranquil, scenic, and ideal for couples or families seeking quiet luxury.
Detroit, MI
Detroit’s inland lakes and Great Lakes access offer a variety of boating experiences.
Lake Fenton – 800+ acres, interconnected lakes, perfect for casual pontoon rides, watersports, or fishing. Visit Action Water Sports in Fenton to see Crest pontoons.
Manitou Beach (Devils Lake) – Clear, calm waters for swimming and relaxing pontoon outings. Check out Devil’s Lake Water Sports for fishing pontoons and family-friendly tritoons.
Syracuse, NY
The Finger Lakes region offers deep, clear waters and vineyard-dotted shores.
Canandaigua Lake – 15+ miles of boating space, wineries, and restaurants. FLX Marine has Crest pontoons ready for your next cruise or fishing adventure.
Cayuga Lake – 40 miles of navigable water, perfect for long pontoon rides, fishing, or sightseeing. Stop at FLX Marine – Frontenac Harbor for tritoons and pontoons.
Knoxville, TN
Nestled in East Tennessee, these lakes are ideal for scenic pontoon and tritoon adventures.
Fort Loudoun Lake – 14,000 acres, smooth waters, marinas, and coves. Current Watersports in Knoxville carries Crest pontoons and fishing pontoons.
Tellico Lake – 15,000+ acres of calm water with 350 miles of shoreline, great for relaxing cruises or fishing. Explore models at Current Watersports.
Why Crest Pontoons, Tritoons, and Fishing Pontoons?
Crest offers pontoons built for comfort, stability, and versatility, whether you’re cruising, fishing, or hosting friends. Tritoons provide extra space and performance for larger groups or watersports, and fishing pontoons are equipped for tackle, rod storage, and calm-water stability.
Ready to find your perfect pontoon or tritoon?