Bass Lake Boat Rentals & Water Sports has one of the largest fleets on the lake—75 boats total—so you’ve got real choices depending on what you and your dog want to do. They rent pontoons for leisurely cruising, jet skis if you want speed, kayaks and canoes for quieter exploration, and stand-up paddleboards if you’re feeling adventurous. Wakeboards are available too if someone in your group is into that.

The big draw here is that dogs are genuinely welcome on the water. You can bring your dog along on a pontoon cruise, which is honestly the easiest option if your dog isn’t completely comfortable with water. The boat’s stable platform means your dog can move around without too much rocking, and you get to enjoy Bass Lake’s scenery together. If you’re more experienced and your dog is a swimmer, kayaking or paddleboarding might appeal to you—though you’ll want to make sure your dog is secure and wearing a life vest if you’re in a kayak.

Bass Lake itself is beautiful, surrounded by Sierra Nevada views, and the water is generally calm enough for different skill levels. The rental operation seems well-organized given they’re managing that many boats, which matters when you show up ready to go.

One thing to keep in mind: bring a towel for your dog and maybe a dry change of clothes for yourself. Lake water can be cold even in summer, and if your dog shakes off on the boat, you’ll appreciate having something to dry them with before the ride back. The rental place can tell you more about their specific policies for dogs on different watercraft types when you call or visit their website to book.