Policies, Rules and Procedures


The Bass Lake Queen provides a 1-hour daily tour of beautiful Bass Lake during the summer season; and on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Rules of the Lake: Bass Lake is a directional lake that you travel in a counter-clockwise direction. This means you keep to the right of an imaginary centerline, similar to the rules of our roads. Cross the lake at right angles, or perpendicular to the imaginary centerline. We require you to stay 100 feet away from all persons in the water, swimmers, skiers, objects and shorelines. All boats and personal watercraft must clear their area before making any turns. Personal Water Craft must ride in the personal watercraft area (jet ski area), which is marked by tall cylindrical buoys that have “jet ski only” printed on them. In this area you still travel counter clockwise, but you can “play” provided your area is clear from boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, etc. Additionally, you must travel to and from the main portion of the lake at 5 m.p.h. These are the orange buoys. We say you must travel slowly to and from the orange buoys. We also have a copy of Madera County Laws and California ABC’s of boating on hand for you to read. You are encouraged to ask questions if you do not understand.

Speed Limit: Bass Lake has a 40 mph speed limit when the Sheriff’s department displays a red flag at certain locations around the lake. This means they feel the lake is too congested for speeds above 40 mph. Our policy is 40 mph at all times. We want you to be safe.


Fireworks over Bass Lake on July fourth is an exciting annual event drawing thousands - in boats as well as packing the roads along the perimeter of the lake.

Reservations: Reservations are made via our Internet Web Site, over the phone or in person with a major credit card and drivers license number. You have three days prior to your first day of rental to cancel without cost. After that time, you will be billed the full amount of your consecutive rental. We do not sell or give away any personal information you give us.

Age Restrictions: California law is unique. You must be at least 18 to rent, at least 16 to drive by yourself, and 12 to 15 can drive with an 18 year old person or older on the boat or personal watercraft. We require a valid acceptable driver’s license as proof of age (or a passport).

Deposits: Deposits are required on all rentals. Deposits are authorized on a credit card, which does not show on your statement (at all) if there are no problems. We go over the boat with you on the way out and on the way in. You have an opportunity on your way out to list any problems or doubts. We usually point it out to you, as we have a pretty good system and want you to feel comfortable during your rental. In the event you do incur damage or damages, your deposit will be used to cover the cost (more will be charged if necessary). If you follow our rules, the chance of damage is slim.

Contract: We require all participants (renters, drivers, passengers, etc.) to read and sign or have their parent or guardian sign a contract explaining the risks and dangers you may incur. We recommend you read our contract for a statement of risks and liabilities. You will be releasing us of all liability. Use common sense, ask questions, ride to your ability and you will minimize risk.