Back Water Boat Rentals opens at marina

Clint Sumlin had the idea for a boat rental business in Demopolis for several years. He shared that idea with his good friends, Jeb and Niki Bailey, who thought it would be a great side business.

Sumlin is a commander of the Drug Task Force, and Jeb Bailey, the battalion fire chief in Demopolis. Niki Bailey also works full time, but together the trio decided to open Back Water Boat Rentals to offer the opportunity for people who don’t own boats to enjoy the rivers around Demopolis.

Back Water Boat Rentals held a ribbon-cutting Wednesday at Kingfisher Bay Marina in spite of the rain. The business offers 22-foot pontoon boats that can hold up to 11 people. Sumlin said all safety equipment is provided, including life jackets for adults. Parents must provide small children with their own.

He said no license is required in Alabama to rent a boat. After a short instruction on safety and operations, the signed rental agreement serves as a license.

Rental fee per day is $350 and, as with car rental, users must fill the gas tank or pay for fuel after use.

Back Water Boat Rentals is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., although, said Sumlin, the owners can be flexible if renters need to come earlier or stay out on the water later.