Top Lakes for Pontoon Boating in the Midwest

Summertime calls for adventures on the water, and there's no better way to enjoy the warm weather than on a pontoon boat, exploring the myriad of beautiful lakes the Midwest has to offer. From the bustling waters near urban centers to tranquil, secluded spots surrounded by nature, there's a perfect lake for every type of boater with every kind of accessory. 

Whether you're looking to reel in a big catch, soak up the sun, chill in the shade, or simply cruise with friends and family, join us as we dive into some of the most pontoon-friendly lakes in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. 

Each body of water offers its own unique charm and array of activities, and these lakes promise unforgettable memories on the water.

Minnesota

In this land of ten thousand lakes, the choices are seemingly endless when it comes to deciding where to take your pontoon. To narrow down the selection, consider how far a drive you want to take, how populated your ideal destination lake should be, or what you most want to do on it.

There’s a secluded lake for the quiet fisher out there or a bustling lake for the party crowd! Here’s a look at some possibilities. 

Lake Minnetonka

If you’re looking to boat close to the Twin Cities, nothing beats this massive lake. As the state’s ninth-largest lake and containing 31 connecting channels, it has room for every type of pontoon enthusiast! 

Its bays and coves are ideal spots for fishers, but it’s also a popular lake. You’re likely to find friends wherever you go at any time of day or night. 

Enjoy the view and explore the shoreline; you’ll see some of Minnesota’s largest and most impressive homes and discover famous waterfront restaurants, like Maynards and Lord Fletchers. 

Lake Vermillion

Located in Saint Louis County between Cook and Ely, Minnesota, Lake Vermillion is a sprawling 40,000-acre lake with seemingly untouched shoreline. For the nature-lover or adventurer, this lake and its 365 islands offer miles of exploration and natural wonders. 

Perfect for fishing, sightseeing, and simply relaxing surrounded by some of Minnesota's best scenery, this lake will reignite your sense of adventure. Discover centuries-old pines, breathtaking wildlife, and multitudes of various edible berries dotting the shoreline. 

Stay in campsites along the lake or rest easy in one of several resorts in the area, but make your reservations early because they do fill up quickly. 

Wisconsin

While the debate may linger about whether Wisconsin or Minnesota has the most lakes, the fact is that both states have their fair share of amazing places in which to enjoy your pontoon. 

Here are some of our cheese-state favorites! 

Lake Winnebago

Known throughout the country for its picture-perfect scenery, this lake is just south of Green Bay and boasts some of the best fishing and swimming spots you’ll ever find. 

As a shallow freshwater lake, you’ll come across sandbars throughout its over 137,000 acres, but most boaters can easily avoid them and stay in the average 15 ft. depths. 

As for fishing, you’ll find walleye, sturgeon, panfish, catfish, and more, and if you’re not into fishing, there are plenty of hiking trails and other activities to do around the lake, too.

Lake Pepin

This lake aligns with the Mississippi River on the Wisconsin and Minnesota border, making it an ideal destination lake for residents of both states and tourists alike. 

This lake is made for all-day water experiences, from watersports to evening cruises. As a long river-lake, you may feel drawn to sailing or drifting miles down the current, enjoying the forests, farmland, and historic towns along the way. 

Illinois

Lake Michigan is not the only great lake for pontoon boaters in Illinois. You can find beautiful, albeit smaller, bodies of water throughout the state, including some of our top choices. 

Spring Lake on the Mississippi River

As another lake option that rests in the Mississippi River, Spring Lake is situated between Illinois and Iowa, just south of Savanna, Illinois. 

The lake offers exciting recreational activities on and off the water, from fishing and water skiing to nature trails and observation decks through the wildlife conservation areas. 

You can even meander through the many islands between the states and land on Iowa’s only island city destination, Sabula. It is known for its beaches, campgrounds, and shopping areas and makes a perfect day trip for intrepid explorers! 

Carlyle Reservoir

This man-made lake is the largest in the state. Originally built by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s and 1960s, the lake has become a major attraction for boating enthusiasts statewide. 

Known especially for its impressive stock of bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, flatheads, and largemouth bass, Carlyle Lake is a popular fishing spot for pole-and-line fishers and trotlines alike. 

Make it a day-long trip with pontooning, swimming, and picnicking sites, or stay for a weekend at one of the numerous campgrounds for days of fun. 

Michigan

Surrounded by four great lakes (counting Lake Superior and the Upper Peninsula) and over 3,000 miles of freshwater coastline, Michigan is an incredible state for pontooning. 

Experience breathtaking sights, gorgeous pine forests, clear waters, and even snorkeling at these top lakes in the state! 

Torch Lake

This glacial lake boasts crystal blue water and white sand beaches. The water is so clear and azure you might be convinced you are pontooning around the Caribbean as you glide across the lake’s 19 miles on a sunny summer day!

With plenty of space for everyone, take advantage of all types of water activities, from boating and waterskiing to paddle boarding and snorkeling. You’ll love every minute on this tropical-like coastline. 

Lake St. Claire

Connecting Lake Huron and Erie, this lake is home to cargo ships en route from the Midwest to the Northeast and vice versa. But it is also spacious enough to allow boaters of all kinds to enjoy its miles and miles of shoreline. 

While cruising to see beautiful scenery, stop by the many towns along the coast for delicious dining, clean parks, meeting places, shopping, and more.

Enjoy Midwest Lakes Even More With autobimini

Whether you stick with your favorite good ol’ standby lakes or you love traveling throughout the Midwest to find new pontoon paradises, an autobimini shade allows you to enjoy every minute of your time on the water. 

Get instant shade at the push of a button with smart technology controls, soft starts and stops with pulse-width-modulated (PWM) motor control, encompassing shade with an elegant arched bimini top that spreads 102” wide, and more. See all the uncompromising features on our autobimini advantage chart. 

Then order your own today! Order online and have it shipped directly to your door in just two weeks. The installation process is relatively easy, especially for those mechanically inclined, with step-by-step instructions and easy access to our team of pros for troubleshooting help. 

Or find one of our dealers in all the above-mentioned Upper Midwest states to have your autobimini installed for you!