If you’re hesitant to book a winter houseboat rental, we don’t blame you. Winter on the lake doesn’t sound ideal, but trust us, there are many pros to booking a February getaway to Lake Mohave. Before we go into the benefits and what to expect, here are a few quick facts about the lake you are about to visit:

• Lake Mohave was created in 1951 following the completion of Davis Dam near present-day Laughlin, Nevada and Bullhead City, Arizona.
• Technically, Lake Mohave isn’t a “lake” but a large reservoir located on the Colorado River. This reservoir spans approximately 67 miles through the desert landscape between Hoover Dam and Davis Dam.
• What originally played an integral part of the 1944 Water Treaty with Mexico has now become a popular recreational spot for over a million people per year.
• Visitors from far and wide flock to the area for a variety of activities including boating, fishing, skiing, hiking, and even scuba diving.
• Lake Mohave is home to plenty of native fish, introduced game fish, as well as desert wildlife and plants. It’s also a great place to experience America’s southwest without venturing too far out from civilization.
• Las Vegas is just under a 2-hour drive away.
• Lake Mohave is a fantastic lake to houseboat on.

If you’re planning a trip to Lake Mohave in December, January or February, here is what to expect with a winter houseboat rental.

Weather

It’s warmer than you think

Most people are afraid to vacation on the lake during the winter months, thinking the weather will be cold and rainy, or the vessel will just be too cold to stay on. However, that’s not always the case, especially when you book a winter houseboat rental in the southwest. Highs have been known to reach up to 70 degrees in the wintertime—although Lake Mohave maintains an average high of about 60 degrees.

There’s a small chance you’ll experience rainfall

According to the National Park Service, Lake Mead Recreation Area receives less than 5 inches of annual rainfall. This means you’ll have an even slighter chance of seeing rain during your trip, especially since it’s not monsoon season. We do, however, recommend you follow the current forecast through The National Weather Service site to prepare for your visit no matter what time of year.

What You’ll See

Land animals

You’ll want to pack your binoculars because there is plenty of wildlife to witness in the sky and near the shores of this lake. Animals you may encounter include bald eagles, desert bighorn sheep, burrowing owls, desert tortoise, lizards, and more. Just make sure to keep a safe distance between you and the animals, as we cannot guarantee wild animals will play nice.

Fish

Take a glance below the water’s surface and you may be able to spot a largemouth bass or two. Other fish you may see (or catch) include striped bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, sunfish, catfish or crappie.

Hot springs

Gold Strike Hot Springs is a popular place to soak and enjoy a warm bath during your winter stay. It’s located very close to the shore which is accessible from a trailhead just a mile south of the Hoover Dam. You could also visit Arizona Hot Springs, which is a more strenuous hike if you’re looking for a less-traveled spot to spend your time.

Stunning sunsets

The southwest is known for its incredible pinkish-purple sunsets. These sunsets look even better reflected off the water with mountains and canyon shadows in the background. Capture some of your favorite vacation pics around this time and you won’t regret your winter houseboat rental one bit.

Benefits

The fishing is better

You can go fishing any time of year, but the cold weather brings fish closer to the surface in the winter. In our experience, winter is the best season for trout fishing on Lake Mohave. Striped bass, also found at this lake, often move as close to 10 to 20 feet from the surface during the winter. Be sure to get a fishing license from the marina store where you can also learn about any lake-specific fishing regulations.

The lake is quieter

Of the 1.5 million annual Lake Mohave visitors, a majority of those plan their trips in the middle of summer. Winter visitors often feel like they have the whole of Lake Mohave to themselves. With visitor traffic lighter than normal, there is plenty of room for first-timers to get the feel of maneuvering a houseboat on the lake.
Greater houseboat availability.
Since the lake will be less busy this time of year, there’s a greater chance you will get the exact houseboat you wanted (even if you book pretty close to your arrival date). Enjoy the freedom to even call the weekend before and see what’s available! This is ideal for those last-minute getaway trips.

Pricing

Discounts kick in quicker

At Cottonwood Cove Marina, a winter houseboat rental means you could start saving right away. In the cooler months, discounts kick in once you book over a 3-day reservation. In peak season, we typically don’t start giving out discounts until after at least a 5-day reservation. This means you’ll have extra spending cash for that powerboat or personal watercraft you’ve been eyeing!

Special offers

While we don’t fluctuate our prices throughout the year, we do offer frequent promotions and special offers to offset some costs for the budget-minded. Visit our special offers page on our website for more details or feel free to give us a call at 877-262-8212 for the best deals available.

This winter, take advantage of smaller crowds, the warmer southwestern climate, great fishing, and special offers on houseboat trips. Find out for yourself why the off-season is the best time for your houseboat rental. Why wait any longer? Make your reservation today!