GUNNISON BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Full-Day Pontoon Escape on Blue Mesa Reservoir
Rent a large pontoon from Elk Creek and Lake Fork Marinas for a full day on Blue Mesa—this guide lays out what to expect, what to bring, and the practical details for a smooth day on the water.
Full-Day Pontoon Escape on Blue Mesa Reservoir.
Spend a full day exploring Blue Mesa Reservoir from a roomy pontoon provided by Elk Creek and Lake Fork Marinas. The rental program is built for family outings and small groups: boats come equipped with required Colorado safety gear and personal flotation devices, many pontoons have Bimini tops and rod holders, and staff provide safety and operation instruction so you can find a quiet cove and enjoy the reservoir in relative solitude.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Blue Mesa's Quiet Coves
Cruise the expanse of Blue Mesa Reservoir and drop into serene coves to swim, fish, or simply take in open-water views—ideal for groups seeking a mix of exploration and relaxed downtime.
Pontoon Comfort and Practicality
Most pontoons include Bimini tops and rod holders; gas and Colorado-required safety equipment are provided so you can focus on the day rather than logistics.
Operator Support and Gear Options
Elk Creek and Lake Fork Marinas emphasize customer service: staff are knowledgeable about rentals, safety and operation instruction is included, and fishing equipment is available to rent to round out a full day on the water.
What the day feels like
What a Day on the Pontoon Feels Like
A typical day is unhurried: you pick up your boat at the marina after 8:00 a.m., cruise across open water to a favored cove, anchor or drift, and return by the end of the rental window. The emphasis is on a relaxed, family-friendly outing—space for a group, shade under a Bimini top, and the option to troll or cast with rented fishing gear.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits—and who should consider other options.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals are full-day only; the standard window runs 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and you may pick up your rental anytime after 8:00 a.m.
Bring a valid driver’s license and payment; a $50 deposit will be held on a valid credit card or accepted in cash. Operators supply life vests and required safety equipment; gas is included with the rental.
Pets are allowed for a fee ($25 for up to two pets). Each pet counts as an occupant and the operator limits rentals to a maximum of two pets.
Most pontoons are equipped with Bimini tops and rod holders. Fishing equipment can be rented to complement your day on the water.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is a rental and when can I pick up the boat?
Rentals are full-day only from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; you may pick up your rental anytime after 8:00 a.m.
Where do I pick up the pontoon?
Pick up takes place at Elk Creek and Lake Fork Marinas where the operator handles rental orientation and safety briefings.
What identification or payment is required?
A valid driver’s license is required and a $50 deposit will be held on a valid credit card or accepted in cash at pickup.
Are life jackets and safety equipment provided?
Yes. All boats have Colorado boating regulation safety equipment and personal flotation devices; life vests are included for everyone.
Can I bring pets?
Yes—pets are welcome for a fee of $25 for up to two pets; each pet counts as an occupant and the maximum is two pets.
Is gas included or extra?
Gas is included with the rental.
Do you offer fishing equipment?
Fishing equipment is available to rent to complete your day on the water, and many pontoons have rod holders.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Reservations are strongly encouraged to secure a full-day rental.