Top 10 Boating Cities in Texas for Spring: Newly Released Data from Boatsetter
Last Updated on February 19, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
Spring boating season is here, and Texas’ lakes and coastal waters are the perfect destinations for adventure. Boatsetter’s latest data reveals the top spots for fishing, relaxing, and enjoying the Lone Star State’s stunning waterways this spring.
Our Methodology
This report leverages proprietary data from Boatsetter, the leading mobile app for boat rentals, charters, and on-water experiences, to showcase the top 10 boating cities for spring in Texas. Our data team analyzed booking trends on our platform from March 1 through April 30, highlighting average rental prices, most popular boat types, pre-booking for spring, and the unique attractions that make each city stand out. Only bookings with verified reviews and consistent activity were considered to ensure the accuracy of our insights.
Top 10 Cities in Texas for Spring Boating
1. Austin
- Average hourly rental price: $201
- Average total trip price: $771
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Austin remains a standout destination, with nearby Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, and Lake LBJ offering incredible springtime fishing and cruising opportunities. Pontoon boats are a favorite, perfect for group outings or peaceful days on the water. Trips with 8+ passengers in Austin average just $99 per passenger, making it a great budget-friendly option.
2. Houston
- Average hourly rental price: $140
- Average total trip price: $597
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Houston’s nearby waterways, including Clear Lake and the Galveston Bay area, make it a fantastic spring boating destination. Anglers enjoy fishing for redfish and speckled trout, while recreational boaters take advantage of the warm spring temperatures for relaxing pontoon cruises. With a growing interest in water activities, Houston continues to rank as a top destination for Texas boaters.
3. Lewisville Lake
- Average hourly rental price: $141
- Average total trip price: $509
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
A short drive from Dallas, Lewisville Lake offers a prime boating destination for spring travelers. With calm waters, sandy beaches, and multiple marinas, it’s a perfect location for watersports and family-friendly outings. Springtime brings an increase in leisure cruises and group gatherings, making it an ideal setting for a laid-back weekend on the water.
4. Dallas
- Average hourly rental price: $131
- Average total trip price: $575
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Lake Fork, less than two hours from Dallas, is a premier bass fishing destination that continues to attract anglers year-round. With bookings up 40% YoY, it remains a top choice for fishing enthusiasts. Trips lasting 6 hours are ideal for maximizing fishing opportunities.
5. San Antonio (Canyon Lake)
- Average hourly rental price: $152
- Average total trip price: $842
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Canyon Lake, nestled in the Texas Hill Country, is a spring gem known for its clear blue waters and surrounding limestone cliffs. Whether fishing or cruising, it’s a destination that offers serenity and adventure.
6. Lake Ray Hubbard
- Average hourly rental price: $160
- Average total trip price: $533
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Located east of Dallas, Lake Ray Hubbard is one of the largest lakes in North Texas and a hotspot for spring boating. Boaters enjoy fishing, wakeboarding, and sunset cruises, with an increasing number of rentals booked for weekend getaways. As a hidden gem for boating enthusiasts, this lake continues to gain popularity among those seeking adventure near the city.
7. Corpus Christi
- Average hourly rental price: $133
- Average total trip price: $798
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Corpus Christi combines coastal beauty and urban charm, making it a top spot for boating in spring. Its calm waters and vibrant marine life draw anglers and leisure boaters alike. Spring bookings are on the rise, as more travelers seek destinations that offer both relaxation and deep-sea fishing experiences.
8. Waco
- Average hourly rental price: $111
- Average total trip price: $485
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Waco’s rivers and lakes offer a peaceful retreat for boaters looking to escape the city. In the spring, the Brazos River and Lake Waco provide a serene setting for relaxing on the water. With steady growth in bookings, Waco is becoming a preferred choice for those looking to explore Texas’ inland waters.
9. Lake Grandbury
- Average hourly rental price: $121
- Average total trip price: $419
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Just southwest of Fort Worth, Lake Granbury is an underrated yet thriving spring boating location. Known for its charming waterfront scene and calm waters, it’s a favorite among locals looking for a relaxing day on the lake. With waterfront dining and fishing opportunities, the lake has become a go-to spot for weekend adventurers.
10. Lake Athens
- Average hourly rental price: $83
- Average total trip price: $362
- Most popular style of boat: Pontoon
Lake Athens, located in East Texas, is an emerging springtime favorite for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Known for its scenic beauty and abundant largemouth bass, it attracts both anglers and leisure boaters. With increasing interest in off-the-beaten-path lake destinations, Lake Athens is quickly becoming a sought-after location for spring travelers.
In Summary
Texas’s top 10 boating destinations offer a diverse and captivating array of experiences, from the tranquil lakes of the Hill Country to the dynamic waters of the Gulf Coast, primed for anglers. As the spring season unfolds, these cities transform into prime locations for boating enthusiasts seeking warmer weather, stunning scenery, fishing hot spots, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the water or an exciting exploration of Texas’s vast aquatic landscapes, these destinations promise an exceptional boating experience that’s truly at its best in March and April.
Citing This Report
Media professionals are encouraged to use this data for reporting, with appropriate citation and a link to Boatsetter. For additional data, insights, or press inquiries, please contact Lacee Moon at lrudd@boatsetter.com. Our team is happy to provide further analysis, quotes, and any other information needed for your story.
About Boatsetter:
With thousands of vetted boat listings worldwide, Boatsetter is the leading marketplace for boat rentals and on-the-water experiences. From pontoons to yachts, for lake days or weekend getaways, guests can find a boat for any occasion. Many guests book a boat with a USCG-certified captain or an expert guide, to explore the waterways with ease. Credited with pioneering the first-ever peer-to-peer boat rental insurance policy, Boatsetter has empowered boat owners with the tools and support to become entrepreneurs on the water. Launched commercially in 2014, over one million boaters and boat owners alike have turned to Boatsetter to discover the endless possibilities the water provides.
Media Contacts:
Lacee Rudd
Communications Manager
lrudd@boatsetter.com
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
