A Guide to Fun Water Activities at Lake Koocanusa

In the shadows of the towering Rocky Mountains in Montana is Lake Koocanusa – a sizable 90-mile-long lake that boasts the perfect setting for outdoor recreation. No matter where you look out from, you’ll be greeted by the intense blues of the water and the lush green of the vegetation. Fed by the Kootenay River, it’s clear that the glittering lake is expansive and vast, providing plenty of room for fishing, boating, and other immersive activities. Just 10 minutes away from Indian Springs Montana, it’s a fantastic escape if you’re looking for a change of scenery and a quick adventure in the great outdoors.

Want to get straight out into the water with friends and family? The nearlby Abayance Bay Marina rents watercraft that you can use to spend the day relaxing and exploring the nooks and crannies of Lake Koocanusa. From sport boats to sea doos and larger pontoons, you can soak up the sun and listen to your favourite tunes while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

Famous for its underrated fishing, the lake is teeming with a variety of fish species, including brook trout, kookanee salmon, whitefish, bull trout, yellow perch, and more. As many typically flock to the nearby Kootenai River, the lake often prides itself on its unfrequented, quiet, and solitary fishing areas. However, because Koocanusa is so large, it’s recommended to take a boat out to reach the best spots.

Ready for a little more action? Although Lake Koocanusa is primarily known for its stillness, its sheer size makes it a fantastic place to zip across its expanse on a jet ski. Adrenaline junkies can rev up their engines and catch a glimpse of every corner of the lake, with a great deal of golden opportunities to spot some hidden gems

Pack a delicious picnic basket full of hearty sandwiches and fresh juicy fruit, and head down to the Tobacco Plains Picnic Area on Lake Koocanusa. Enveloped by a forest environment, you can take the day to simply chill out and spend quality time with loved ones – furry friends included.

The lake’s surrounding atmosphere and crisp air set the scene for a one-of-a-kind tranquillity, no matter what vessel tickles your fancy. These non-motorized water sports are a pleasant way to calm your mind, forget about all of life’s stressors, and move your body. While you’re at it, you can explore the many bays and beaches and the fascinating wildlife that call this place home – osprey, bald eagles, deer, great blue herons, and moose – to name a few.

Right on the shores of the lake, you’ll find the Abayance Bay Marina, must-go full-service marina complete with an outdoor lakefront bar, fine dining restaurant, and an amphitheater for live entertainment.

200 boat slips provide more than enough space for everyone to spend more time in the water, while pre-furnished glamping tents are available for an elevated overnight stay. If glamping isn’t your thing, you can opt for a no-frills camping experience on one of the regular campsites. Once you’re ready to round up the day, why not stop by one of the dining establishments or see a live concert with spectacular views of Lake Koocanusa?

No visit to or stay at the Indian Springs Montana is complete without a day out at Lake Koocanusa. Maybe you’re a thrill seeker or perhaps more into a slow-paced exploration of the water – whatever your taste, you can build your own adventure that complements your time on the green. If you’re seeking an authentic, one-of-a-kind stay in one of the last frontiers of the American West, the Indian Springs Montana is the ideal base camp – with Lake Koocanusa just a stone’s throw away. Get in touch and book your accommodation today!