We have been kicking this around for awhile and just trying to figure out the best time to go and if Rainy lake is the best spot? Which company to pick? Fishing will happen but it wont be the biggest priority. This will be a group that just needs to get away and disconnect from the world.
Whatever you can recommend will be greatly appreciated from past experiences or things you would change from your past trips. Any and all information is wanted.
We have rented them on rainy 4 times and pull fishing boat with. Always a good time. Also voyagers over on crane.
Lucky enough my buddy bought one on crane so we dont rent any more.
Sweet. I’ve been looking at doing this with my family also. Looks like a blast!
We did one on Vermillion 5-6 years ago.
It’s pretty awesome 
The only downside is it’s about 1000x more $$ than just tenting it. But the memories and experience are priceless.
The only downside is it’s about 1000x more $$ than just tenting it. But the memories and experience are priceless.
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Yes it is expensive. I have a uncle who comes up from Texas and we have been doing it the last 6 or 7 years. It’s a nice way to relax and hang out. We get the water slide off the roof and such the kids love them.
Agree on going to Rainey. Would also recommend Rainey Lake Houseboats. Here’s why. RLH has the boats with a barge style hull. These just have a more stable ride and more usable space. Storage/sleeping areas down inside the hull. The other “pontoon” style from other companies up there ride higher and feel unstable if/when it gets rough. Both companies did provide great service.
Time? for me and my wife, right after kids are back in school. Early Sept. Lot less traffic up there. The nights are cool and the fishing is still great. If you are bringing kids and plan to swim, go July/August with the first week in August would be my top pick. If you go peak times, you may end up with a less than perfect spots to tie up. Also less opportunity to move to other spots. Early Sept, plenty of great spots to pick from. Remember, there are designated houseboat spots. Don’t be the guy who pulls into and uses a designated tent area!
Another tip for a first timer. You will be getting an orientation on how to run the boat. If its your first time, let them know and ask a LOT of questions. If you decide running the boat is not up your ally, they will provide a pilot to get you out to a spot and tie you off. Come back in a week to pick you up. Also, go easy on the throttle. You should not be in any hurry. If you go 1/2 to 3/4 max on the throttle, you will cut your gas bill in half for the same distance traveled. (Gas can be up to $4 a gallon)
If you have problems or need supplies, you can usually radio in and put in an order to have delivered. Bring more beer than you think you will need!
-J.
Going on a Rainy Lake Houseboat later today! It’s a great time, that I compare to a BWCA trip with the comforts of home in a traveling cabin. I haven’t been in another companies HB, but this will be my 7th trip with RLHB and our groups 9th overall. It’s expensive compared to camping or a cabin weekend, but not bad if split up among friends/family or compared to taking the family out of state. Highly recommend!
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