Pelican Lake is the largest navigable body of water in southwest Manitoba, stretching approximately 14 miles long and 1.5 miles wide. The lake sits in a scenic valley near the community of Ninette and the Prairie Lakes region, offering a wide open expanse of water suitable for a range of paddling activities including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Paddlers should be aware of significant access regulations currently in place at Pelican Lake. The Rural Municipality administering the lake has implemented a boat inspection and access control program designed to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species, particularly zebra mussels, which have been found in nearby water bodies including Clear Lake, Lake Manitoba, and the Assiniboine River. Under this program, the primary public boat launch is located at the north end of the lake near Ninette. The remaining access points around the lake are closed to the general public using barriers and locks. Visiting paddlers arriving from outside the area are directed to use the Ninette access, where watercraft inspections are conducted. An inspection fee applies, and boaters can purchase a tag upon departure that allows re-entry provided the watercraft has not been launched in any other lake in the interim. Non-motorized vessels, including kayaks and canoes, are subject to permitting requirements as part of this program.

The lake supports a variety of wildlife and bird watching opportunities in the surrounding valley, which features wildflowers and open prairie landscapes. The Pelican Lake Yacht Club holds an annual regatta on the lake, indicating that conditions can accommodate sailing and that wind exposure is a factor paddlers should account for on open water. The lake's considerable length and width mean that wind and wave conditions can develop quickly, which is a relevant safety consideration for paddlers in smaller craft.

Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals are available locally through the Pelican Lake Lounge. The Moonlit Canopy glamping property near Pleasant Valley also offers kayaks to guests. A public beach is accessible for swimming and shore access. The warmer months from late spring through summer represent the primary paddling season, while the lake freezes in winter and is used for ice fishing.