New and used boat sales with expert guidance to find the perfect fit for your family and needs.
Secure indoor and outdoor storage options to protect your boat during off-seasons or when not in use.
Comprehensive repair services including prop replacement, radio installation, and winterization.
On-site store offering quality boating accessories, safety equipment, and parts at competitive prices.
Convenient gas pump access for refueling your boat, with attention to accuracy and service.
Support with titling and registration, including handling transactions for out-of-state buyers.

Your premier destination for boating sales, service, and storage on Lake Mendota.
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SkipperBud's Madison is a full-service marina offering boat sales, storage, repairs, and supplies for boating enthusiasts. Located at 5381 Westport Rd, we provide exceptional customer service with a knowledgeable team dedicated to helping you find the perfect boat and enjoy safe, memorable experiences on the water. From new purchases to maintenance and winterization, we're your trusted partner for all things boating in Madison, WI.
I really enjoyed each member of the team. From sales to taking the boat home each person I worked with was exceptional at making me feel knowledge about the boat I was purchasing. Helping to select the perfect fit for our family. Providing value in our selection. I feel I made a great purchase and it was easy to do with the help of all staff. I had no plans to buy items for the boat, but the items suggested not only were a great value (cost less than anywhere else and of great quality) but also were so necessary for us to enjoy our boat safely and immediately.
Working with marinas is often difficult, dealing with many logistical issues and often unprofessional staff. I am happy to say that SkipperBuds Madison is not one of these marinas. I am always impressed with their attention to detail and willingness to help. I recommend this facility to anyone looking for quality service on Lake Mendota.
UPDATE: Skipper Buds called us and acknowledged that there was an issue with their gas pumps and rectified our situation. We appreciate their admission of an error and reaching out to us. BEWARE!!! GAS PUMP IS EITHER BROKEN OR FRAUDULENT!! Came in with a quarter tank of gas in my 43 gallon (per specs) boat and was charged for 51 gallons at the astronomical price of $6.55 a gallon. We have have yet to hear back from them regarding the impossibility of the amount of gas for which we were charged. Still waiting . . .
I’ll spare you all the details because there is a ton. I live 1100 miles away and made this transaction over the phone and via email. It has not been easy and I’m still dealing with a title company that is LESS than knowledgeable but, Parker (the business manager) at the Madison location has been nothing less than amazing throughout the entire process. Those customers complaining about titling and registration in a different state, please direct your aggravation towards the title company. Skipper Buds and the team here are great, even when you buy a 10 year old boat and you live across the country. 5 stars is the only review that’s appropriate.
I bought a boat for the first time about 4 years ago. I was in over my head and when I got stuck, Skipper Buds were my lifeline. They are awesome !! Friendly. So helpful and they now get my boat ready for winter every year. When I needed a prop replacement, they had a new in a couple of days and switched out my old prop with my new one for free. When I needed a new boat radio installed. Done in a day. I am so grateful to Jen, Brian and there excellent staff,
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