What to Know Before Hitting the Water

With Ice-Out being declared and the temperatures rising, it’s time to start thinking about hitting the water for a season full of fishing, boating, and adventure on Clear Lake! Whether you’re fishing for walleye, renting a pontoon, or buying a new boat, this guide has everything you need. Get early-season fishing tips, boat rental info, and details on the Clear Lake Boats Spring Open House, where you can score great deals on new and used boats.

Early-Season Fishing in Clear Lake: Tips & Where to Buy Gear

Fishing in Clear Lake heats up in early spring as walleye, crappie, and bass become more active. Here’s how to maximize your chances of landing a big catch:

Target the Shallows – Fish move into warmer, shallower waters near docks and weed beds.
Fish at Dawn & Dusk – The best bites happen at sunrise and sunset.
Use Live Bait – Minnows and nightcrawlers are must-haves for spring fishing.
Utilize fishing reports from Clear Lake Bait & Tackle and the Iowa DNR
✅ Get Your Fishing License – Buy online through the Iowa DNR website or at local retailers Brothers Ace Hardware and Clear Lake Bait & Tackle.

Need a guide? Reach out to Kevan Paul’s Guide Service for a reel experience!

Where to Get Fishing Gear & Bait in Clear Lake

Clear Lake Bait & Tackle – Local experts with rods, reels, tackle, and live bait.
Brothers Ace Hardware – Stock up on fishing gear, bait, and outdoor supplies.

Boat Rentals in Clear Lake: Where to Find Pontoons, Kayaks & More

Clear Lake is the place to be for boating this season, and the local boat companies are getting ready to make sure you have a fun time on the water.

Clear Lake Boats Lighthouse Boat Rentals – Offering Bennington & Barletta Pontoons & Yamaha PWCs, this marina is the perfect spot to start your day on the water. Pontoons and PWCs are available from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. For advanced reservations, click “Book Now” on their website or call (641) 357-0961 for more details.
Lake Time Boat Rentals – If you’re looking for unlimited access to a variety of boats, consider joining the Lake Time Boat Club. Members enjoy unrestricted boating options. You can also book pontoons, kayaks, paddleboards, and more for full or half-day rentals online.
⛵ Lake Dream Marine – Enjoy a day on the lake with a 12-passenger pontoon, or try out one of their Pelican kayaks or paddleboards. They also offer boat slip rentals, perfect for those who want to keep their boat close to the water.
Muskie Rentals – Rent a pontoon, kayak, or boat slip for a fun-filled day on Clear Lake. This option is perfect for those who want a variety of rental options for different adventures on the water.

Thinking About Buying a Boat? Don’t Miss the Clear Lake Boats Spring Open House!

If you’re ready to invest in your own boat, don’t miss Clear Lake Boats’ Annual Spring Open House on April 4-5! This event offers special boat show pricing, live music, and food to celebrate the start of the season.

Spring Open House Details
Clear Lake Boats Showroom – 1604 South Shore Dr., Clear Lake, IA

️ Friday, April 4
⏰ 10 AM – 7 PM
Live Music 6 PM – 9 PM

️ Saturday, April 5
⏰ 10 AM – 4 PM

What You’ll Find:
✅ Boat Show Specials – Exclusive discounts on new & used boats!
✅ Live Music & Drinks – Kick off the season with a fun atmosphere.
✅ Storage Options – Learn about inside summer boat storage with security access.

Featured Boat Deals:

  • 2024 Crownline 220 LS – Show Special: $79,961
  • 2024 Bennington 25 QSB w/ 300 HP Yamaha – Show Special: $129,720
  • 2020 Bennington 23 SSBXP w/ 200 HP – $62,995
  • 2013 Cobalt 24 SD – $54,995

Visit Clear Lake Boats for more details and inventory!

Get Ready for a Great Season on the Water!

From fishing for trophy walleye to cruising Clear Lake in a new pontoon, there’s no better time to plan your fishing and boating adventures. Mark your calendar for the Clear Lake Boats Open House, book your boat rental, and grab your fishing gear—it’s time to make waves this season!