The Texas Boat Boom

From Ski Boats to Small Yachts, the Boat Show has it all

Texas has always been defined by big horizons—open skies, open roads, and, increasingly, open water. With more than 7,000 lakes, 3,700 named streams, and a bustling Gulf Coast, the Lone Star State has become one of the fastest-growing boating markets in the country. Whether it’s wakeboarding on Lake Conroe, fishing off the coast of Galveston, tubing across Lake Travis, or cruising into a sunset in Clear Lake, Texans are embracing life on the water more than ever before.

As boating culture surges, so does the desire for innovation, craftsmanship, and new adventures—and that’s exactly what the Houston Boat Show, presented by Polaris, is here to deliver.

Celebrating more than 70 years, the Houston Boat Show is the longest-running boat show in the Southwest. What began as a modest gathering of enthusiasts has evolved into a massive multi-day celebration of the marine lifestyle, drawing shoppers, families, anglers, adventurers, and first-time buyers alike. Each year, the show curates an unmatched variety of boats, gear, and marine services—all under one roof.

This year’s Houston Boat Show brings together an impressive mix of leading dealers and brands, offering everything from high-performance ski and wake boats to family pontoons, offshore fishing rigs, and small yachts built for weekend cruising. Exhibitors such as HTX Watersports, Texas Marine, and Ricker’s Boat World will highlight the newest innovations in wake-surf technology, including advanced ballast systems, upgraded towers, and premium audio designed for perfect lake days.

Bass Pro Shops and Ron Hoover Marine will showcase a wide range of fishing and coastal craft—bay boats, center consoles, and offshore models equipped with cutting-edge Garmin and Humminbird electronics, shallow-water anchors, and spacious, angler-friendly layouts. For those who prefer leisure and comfort, Dockside Marine and Texas Marine will unveil the latest generation of pontoons and deck boats—now among the fastest-growing segments—featuring plush loungers, triple-toon performance packages, extended swim decks, and powerful engines ideal for multi-generational outings. And for buyers looking to elevate their time on the water, Texas Sportfishing & Yacht Sales will present a line of small yachts and express cruisers known for sleek design, upgraded cabins, and joystick docking systems that make coastal cruising both luxurious and approachable.

Together, these exhibitors represent the full scope of Texas boating, ensuring that every lifestyle—from hardcore angler to weekend wake surfer to sunset cruiser—also expands beyond the water with an exciting addition from presenting sponsor Polaris. Attendees can experience a full outdoor Off-Road Adventure Track, built to showcase the capability, handling, and thrill of Polaris’ latest off-road vehicles.

From ranch work to weekend trails, UTVs and ATVs have become a staple of the Texas outdoor lifestyle. This hands-on experience lets visitors ride along, feel the power, and understand why Polaris remains the leader in off-road performance.

The show isn’t just about boat shopping—it’s about embracing the lifestyle. Attendees can explore marine accessories, fishing tackle, dock systems, electronics, water toys, and more. Many exhibitors offer special pricing or incentives exclusive to show week.

Fishing fans are also in for an extra treat with a live bass demonstration tub featuring a professional fisherman who will teach casting techniques, lure selection, and how to read fish behavior. Guests can watch fish react in real time—an insider look at tactics you won’t see anywhere else.

Unlike scrolling online, the Boat Show gives shoppers the chance to walk aboard dozens of models, compare features in person, and talk to local dealers who know Texas waters intimately. Whether you’re ready to buy your first boat, trade up, or simply dream bigger, the Houston Boat Show is the best place in Texas to get inspired.