US-31 Boat Launch

This is a bank access point, not a boat ramp — there are no lanes. You can drop canoes, kayaks, and small cartoppers, but don't show up expecting to back a trailer down to the water. It's really a wade-fishing and carry-in spot.

When the salmon are running in the fall, this place turns into a zoo. Shoulder-to-shoulder anglers, and those 12 trailer spots fill before sunrise. If you're coming mid-September through October, plan on arriving in the dark or parking along the road.

Fair warning — during the fall run you'll see plenty of people ripping treble hooks through the water. It gets frustrating if you're trying to fish legally. DNR does patrol here, but the combat fishing vibe is strong during peak weeks.

People leave beer cans, bait containers, and food wrappers all over the bank, especially during salmon season. It's a shame because the Betsie is a gorgeous little river. Bring a bag and do your part, because clearly not everyone does.

Outside of the fall run, this is actually a peaceful little access point. Summer steelhead, spring browns — you can have the river practically to yourself on a weekday. The parking is more than enough and the setting along the Betsie is beautiful.